Were you hurt in a trip and fall accident?
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a trip and fall accident in New York, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Trip and fall incidents can result in serious harm, ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. The aftermath of such an accident can be overwhelming, leaving you with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Is There a Difference Between Trip and Falls and Slip and Falls?
While trip and falls and slip and falls are both types of premises liability accidents, there are some key differences between the two.
Slip and falls occur when a person loses their footing due to a slippery or wet surface, such as a freshly mopped floor or a spill. These accidents often result in the person falling backward, potentially causing back, head, or tailbone injuries.
On the other hand, trip and falls happen when a person catches their foot on an object or uneven surface, causing them to lose their balance and fall forward. Common causes of trip and falls include raised sidewalks, loose floorboards, or unsecured rugs or carpets. Trip and falls can lead to injuries such as broken wrists, arms, or facial injuries, as the person often tries to catch themselves as they fall.
Another difference between slip and falls and trip and falls is the type of evidence needed to prove negligence. In a slip and fall case, the presence of a slippery substance or surface is crucial, and the property owner’s knowledge of and failure to address the hazard must be established. In a trip and fall case, the focus is on the presence of an obstruction or uneven surface that the property owner should have known about and corrected.
Despite these differences, both slip and falls and trip and falls can result in serious injuries and require the expertise of an experienced personal injury attorney to help victims pursue the compensation they deserve.
Understanding the Legal Aspects of Trip and Fall Accidents
Trip and fall accidents can occur for various reasons, such as poorly maintained sidewalks, slippery surfaces, or hidden hazards. Property owners and managers are legally obligated to maintain their premises reasonably and safely. When they fail to do so, they can be held liable for any injuries sustained by visitors or passersby.
In New York, premises liability laws govern trip and fall cases. These laws establish the duty of care owed by property owners and outline the circumstances under which they can be found negligent. To have a valid claim, you must prove that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to take reasonable steps to address it.
Common Causes of Trip and Fall Accidents
Trip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, from residential buildings to commercial establishments. Some of the most common causes include:
- Uneven or cracked sidewalks
- Loose or torn carpeting
- Inadequate lighting
- Wet or slippery floors
- Clutter or debris in walkways
- Poorly maintained stairs or handrails
- Lack of proper signage or warnings
- Weather-related hazards (ice, snow, etc.)
- Defective or malfunctioning equipment
- Tripping hazards (cords, boxes, etc.)
Injuries Sustained in Trip and Fall Accidents
The injuries sustained in a trip and fall accident can range from minor to severe, depending on the circumstances. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Broken bones (wrists, ankles, hips, arms, legs)
- Sprains and strains (ankles, knees, wrists)
- Head and brain injuries (concussions, traumatic brain injuries)
- Spinal cord injuries (herniated discs, paralysis)
- Cuts and lacerations (requiring stitches or leading to scarring)
- Soft tissue injuries (bruises, contusions)
- Back and neck injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Internal injuries (organ damage, internal bleeding)
- Facial injuries (broken nose, dental injuries)
These injuries can have long-lasting impacts, affecting your ability to work, engage in daily activities, and enjoy a good quality of life. In severe cases, trip and fall accidents can even result in permanent disabilities or life-threatening complications.
The Consequences of Trip and Fall Injuries
The impacts of a trip and fall injury can be far-reaching and long-lasting, extending well beyond the initial pain and suffering. In addition to the physical and emotional toll, these accidents can have significant financial consequences that can devastate victims and their families.
Medical expenses for treatment, hospitalization, and rehabilitation can quickly accumulate, leaving many struggling to make ends meet. Emergency room visits, diagnostic tests, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy can result in staggering medical bills. Even with health insurance, the out-of-pocket costs can be overwhelming, especially for those with high deductibles or copays.
For those who sustain severe or catastrophic injuries, the long-term costs can be staggering and potentially life-altering. Ongoing medical care, such as repeated surgeries, long-term rehabilitation, or the need for specialized equipment or home modifications, can drain resources and savings at an alarming rate.
Additionally, many victims of serious trip and fall accidents may find themselves unable to return to their previous employment or career, either temporarily or permanently. This can necessitate vocational rehabilitation or retraining, further compounding the financial hardship. The loss of earning potential, benefits, and future income can profoundly impact the victim’s financial stability and quality of life.
Victims may also suffer from psychological trauma, depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder, which can require counseling or therapy, adding to the already substantial financial burden.
Seeking Medical Attention and Documentation
Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial if you’ve been in a trip and fall accident. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s essential to get checked by a healthcare professional. Not only will this ensure proper treatment, but it will also create a record of your injuries, which can be invaluable when pursuing a legal claim.
Be sure to document everything related to your accident, including the date, time, location, and any witnesses present. Take photographs of the hazardous condition that caused your fall, if possible. Keep all medical records, bills, and receipts, as these will support your claim for damages.
It’s also important to report the incident to the property owner or manager as soon as possible. This will create an official record of the accident and can help establish liability.
Contact Hach & Rose, LLP Today
The New York trip and fall attorneys at Hach & Rose, LLP work on a contingency fee basis, which means you will only owe us fees if we successfully recover compensation for you. This arrangement ensures you can access legal representation without the added financial stress of upfront costs.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a trip and fall accident in New York City, don’t hesitate to contact Hach & Rose, LLP for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our compassionate legal team will listen to your story, evaluate your case, and advise you on the best course of action.
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a trip and fall accident can take on you and your family. We aim to secure the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery and moving forward with your life.