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Slip and Fall
Comprehending Slip and Fall Accidents
Distinct from trip-and-fall accidents, slip-and-fall incidents typically involve scenarios where an individual loses traction on a surface, leading to an unfortunate accident. The typical slip-and-fall victim generally falls backward after losing their footing. At the Law Office of Stern and Stern, we offer robust legal assistance to those who have suffered injuries such as fractures, spinal cord, and brain injuries due to slip and fall accidents.
The Role of Property Owners in Slip and Fall Accidents
In the case of slip and fall accidents, property owners, including homeowners and business owners, play a crucial role. Accidents often occur due to unsafe conditions like snow or ice, wet floors, or unexpectedly slick surfaces. In these instances, the property owner or entity maintaining the property may be held responsible for any injuries sustained.
Responsibilities After Inclement Weather
After a snowfall, it's essential for property owners to promptly clear their land of snow and ice. The specific timing varies across jurisdictions. For instance, in the Town of Hempstead, it's the responsibility of home and business owners to maintain the sidewalks adjacent to their properties. However, in certain jurisdictions, the town may hold the liability for sidewalks, implicating them as the defendant in any lawsuit.
Slip and Fall Accidents on Private and Commercial Property
Incidents of slip and fall accidents span across private and commercial properties, each coming with its own set of legal implications. On private property, homeowners have a legal obligation to ensure their premises are safe from hazards that could lead to a slip-and-fall accident. This can include promptly addressing any potentially dangerous situations like icy sidewalks, wet floors, or unsecured rugs. Commercial properties, such as shopping malls, supermarkets, and restaurants, must similarly maintain a safe environment for their patrons. This responsibility entails promptly cleaning spills, displaying caution signs for wet floors, and ensuring the overall walkability of the premises.
Slip and fall accidents are common in businesses such as restaurants and grocery stores, where water or food spills create potentially dangerous conditions. It falls upon the management to either mark such areas as hazardous promptly or restrict access until the situation is resolved. Negligence in slip and fall cases can often be a matter of action not taken, such as failing to clear or warn about a hazardous area.
Slip and Fall Accidents on Municipal Property and Filing Deadlines
When it comes to slip-and-fall accidents occurring on municipal properties, such as city parks, sidewalks, and public buildings, the rules vary slightly. The municipality in question is usually responsible for the maintenance of these public spaces. It is crucial to understand that claims against government entities often come with shorter filing deadlines. The timeframe for lodging a notice of claim is typically much shorter than for private or commercial properties. In many jurisdictions, this period can be as short as 30 days from the date of the accident. Therefore, it's crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible following a slip and fall accident on municipal property to ensure all legal deadlines are met.
Reach Out to the Law Offices of Stern and Stern
If you've been a victim of a slip and fall accident, don't hesitate to contact us today at 516-634-0345 to schedule a free case discussion. Keep in mind that slip and fall cases are time-sensitive. Ensuring timely communication with our office is paramount to avoid missing your window of opportunity to pursue a claim.