Slip and Fall Accidents in the Workplace

Slip and fall accidents are a common but serious problem in workplaces. They can happen anywhere, from office buildings to construction sites. On Long Island, these accidents often occur due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, icy conditions or poor lighting.

Sometimes accidents are the fault of the employer. In other cases, the landlord, building manager, a contractor or third-party may be at fault.

In helping you recover for your injuries, we must help you carefully assess your situation, determine of another party is liable for your injuries, and help you secure compensation.

Legal Rights of Employees After a Slip and Fall Accident

If you have had a slip and fall accident at work in New York, it is important to know your rights. First, understand that workers’ compensation is available to most employees. This system is designed to cover medical expenses and lost wages without the need to prove fault. However, the amount of damages you can recover may be limited.

In some cases, you may have the option to file a personal injury claim. This typically occurs when the negligence of a person other than your employer caused or contributed to your accident. While your recovery against the employer may be limited, the recovery against another party may not have that same limitation.

Determining Liability in Workplace Slip and Fall Cases

Determining who is responsible for your slip and fall accident at work can be challenging. In New York, employers must keep their workplaces safe for employees, invitees and others. They must promptly fix hazards (such as wet floors or broken stairs), put others on notice of problems (such as “slippery floor” signs) and take action to protect those on the premises. If they fail to do so, and you were injured as a result, they may be held liable for your injuries.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Workplace Slip and Fall

After a slip and fall accident at work, there are several important steps you should take. Firstly, seek medical attention, even if you do not think you are seriously injured. Some injuries, such as concussions, might not present symptoms immediately. Take steps to protect your health – that should be your highest priority.

Next, be sure to report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. Provide this notification in writing, so you have a record that you placed them on notice of your injury. If your company has a form, be sure to keep a copy before you submit it. If it is done online or via email, keep a copy of the submission for your records.

If you do have injuries and seek compensation for those injuries, you want to ensure your claim is protected and your employer was on notice.

How to File a Claim for a Slip and Fall Accident at Work

If you’ve had the unfortunate experience of slipping and falling at your workplace in New York, the process for filing a worker’s compensation claim is designed to help you manage the financial implications of your injury. First, it’s crucial to report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. New York law requires that you notify your employer in writing within 30 days of the accident. This step is foundational because it officially starts the claim process. Following your report, your employer should provide you with a Form C-3, which you’ll need to fill out and submit to the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board.

Upon filing your claim, the Board will review the details of your accident and your medical reports to make an initial determination. It’s important to seek medical attention immediately after your fall, as the medical records serve as a crucial piece of evidence in supporting your claim. The doctor who treats you should be authorized by the Workers’ Compensation Board, except in emergency situations. Your doctor will complete a preliminary medical report on Form C-4 and submit it to the Board, which adds depth to your case by documenting the extent of your injuries and the treatment required.

After your claim is submitted, there might be a waiting period while your case is evaluated. During this time, your employer’s insurance company may investigate the circumstances of your injury to confirm details or challenge certain aspects of the claim. You might also be called to attend hearings before a Workers’ Compensation Law Judge, who will resolve any disputes between you and your employer or their insurer regarding the claim.

Common Challenges in Slip and Fall Accident Claims

One significant challenge with slip and fall accident claims, particularly in the workplace, revolves around proving liability. For your claim to be successful under New York’s Workers’ Compensation system, there generally doesn’t need to be proof of fault by the employer. However, the complexity arises in cases where the claim is disputed. Disputes can occur if the employer or their insurance company argues that the incident did not happen during the course of employment, or that the injuries claimed are not related to the accident reported. This can require a meticulous gathering of evidence, including witness statements, surveillance footage, and detailed medical records to clearly link the accident to the injuries sustained.

Beyond the confines of workers’ compensation, slip and fall accidents in general settings, like on public or private property, introduce the challenge of proving negligence, which is essential for a successful personal injury claim. The claimant must demonstrate that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to address it responsibly. This often requires proving that the hazard was present for a length of time sufficient for the owner to have taken action. Establishing this can be complex and typically necessitates gathering substantial evidence such as maintenance records, incident reports, and eyewitness accounts. The burden of proof rests on the claimant to show that the negligence of the property owner directly contributed to their accident, making these cases particularly challenging without strong, clear evidence.

Maximizing Your Compensation in Slip and Fall Cases

After suffering a workplace slip and fall in New York, you deserve fair compensation for your injuries. Compensation may include medical bills, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering. Our attorneys fight hard to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to receive.

To maximize compensation in a slip and fall case, you should meticulously document everything related to the accident and your injuries. Keep a detailed record of the incident, photographic evidence of the scene and the hazard involved, and comprehensive medical records outlining all injuries, treatments, and prognoses. Also, keep receipts for all expenses incurred due to the injury, including medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and any other associated costs.

Our experienced slip-and-fall personal injury lawyers can also significantly enhance your ability to secure a fair settlement. Our lawyers will not only navigate the legal complexities but also negotiate effectively with insurance companies. By presenting a well-documented case that demonstrates the impact of the injuries on your quality of life, we can persuade the jury or insurer to award compensation that truly reflects the physical and emotional toll of the accident.

Contact the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C. Today to Discuss Your Slip and Fall Lawsuit

If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident at work, do not wait to get legal help. Contact the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C. to speak with our experienced attorneys. You can call us at (516) 294 5050 to discuss your case. We are here to listen to your story, explain your rights, and guide you on what steps to take next.

We believe in personalized attention. Every case is unique, and so is every client. When you work with us, you are not just another case number. We take the time to understand your specific circumstances and tailor our approach accordingly. Call us today for a free consultation.