All New York property owners have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors and others. If they neglect their responsibility, icy conditions this time of year often cause life-changing injuries resulting from slip-and-fall accidents.
Many falls result in debilitating injuries and long recovery periods. What’s worse, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statistics show people 65 and older are especially vulnerable. The CDC reports death rates involving falls for older adults have increased by 30% since 2007. Slip-and-fall accidents cause roughly 95% of all hip fractures.
Slip-and-fall accidents on business properties
When a property owner’s negligence leads to injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost income and emotional trauma you experience. Getting experienced legal advice can be crucial for receiving what you deserve for your injuries.
Sidewalks, parking lots, driveways and business entrances can be treacherous when not properly maintained after a snowstorm or freezing rain in Albany. Slip-and-fall accidents resulting from icy conditions frequently occur in the following locations:
- Stores and shopping centers
- Restaurants and coffee shops
- Nightclubs, bars and entertainment venues
- Medical facilities
- Parking garages
- Office buildings
Steps to take after falling
Your physical well-being must come first if you are injured after falling on ice. Get immediate medical attention, even if you don’t believe your injuries are serious. Broken bones and other severe medical conditions don’t always show up right away. Once your medical needs are addressed, write down everything you can remember about the accident.
It’s extremely helpful for you or someone you’re with to take pictures at the scene – before you leave the scene, if possible – and to obtain the names and contact information of witnesses. Some businesses may ask you to fill out an accident report. However, if their insurance provider contacts you, answering their questions is not a good idea. Refer them to your lawyer instead.
Many of these businesses may deny responsibility, and their insurance company may even try to blame you. Experienced lawyers understand these tactics, and are well versed in New York laws regarding slip-and-fall accidents. Taking the right steps is crucial for getting the compensation you deserve when someone’s negligence puts your future at risk.