West Seneca Slip and Fall Lawyers

Slip and fall accidents happen fairly often, leading to unexpected injuries, medical expenses, and disruptions to daily life. These incidents often occur due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, whether at a business, public space, or private residence. If you experienced a slip and fall accident in West Seneca, it may be necessary to consult with experienced legal professionals who understand the complexities of premises liability law. 

The legal team at Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys has extensive experience representing individuals who suffered injuries from slip and fall incidents and provides guidance on addressing their situations. 

What Are Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents?

Property owners are expected to maintain their premises in a manner that minimizes risks to others. When they neglect this duty, accidents can occur. Slip and fall accidents can result from hazardous conditions that property owners fail to address. Some of the most common causes include wet or slippery floors, uneven sidewalks, and unmarked hazards like spills or debris. These dangerous conditions can arise in places like grocery stores, parking lots, restaurants, apartment complexes, and workplaces.

What Injuries Are Common in Slip and Fall Accidents?

Injuries from slip and fall accidents vary widely, depending on the circumstances of the fall. Common injuries include fractures, sprains, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and cuts or bruises. In more severe cases, slip and fall accidents can lead to long-term disabilities or require extensive medical treatment.

Fractures, particularly of the wrists, hips, and ankles, are among the most frequent outcomes. Older individuals may face additional risks due to fragile bones. Head injuries, like concussions or traumatic brain injuries, can also occur when someone strikes their head on the ground or another surface. Those types of injuries can have lasting effects on memory, coordination, and overall cognitive function.

How Is Liability Determined in Slip and Fall Cases?

To prove negligence in a slip and fall case, it is typically necessary to demonstrate that:

• A hazardous condition existed.
• The property owner was aware or should have been aware of the issue.
• They failed to take reasonable steps to address it.
• That failure led directly to the injury.

For example, if a spill occurred in a grocery store and employees failed to clean it up or place warning signs within a reasonable time, the store could be held liable for resulting injuries. Similarly, a landlord who ignores complaints about broken stairs may be responsible if a tenant is injured while using them.

New York law follows the principle of comparative negligence, meaning that an injured party’s compensation can be reduced if they are found partially at fault for the accident. So, if someone was distracted by their phone at the time of the fall, the property owner may argue that the injured person shares some responsibility. Our West Seneca slip and fall lawyers can build a case that highlights the property owner’s negligence and limits any claims of shared fault.

What Should You Do After a Slip and Fall Accident?

Taking the right steps after a slip and fall accident can significantly impact the outcome of a legal claim. Seeking medical attention after a slip and fall accident is critical, even if injuries appear minor at first. Symptoms may take time to develop, and prompt treatment can prevent complications. Additionally, medical documentation is often vital when pursuing compensation for injuries sustained in the accident.

Reporting the accident to the property owner or manager is another vital step; ask about getting a copy of the report. Document the details of the incident, including the date, time, location, and any visible hazards. If possible, take photographs of the scene and collect contact information from any witnesses. These steps can help preserve evidence that supports your claim.

Also, avoid discussing the details of your case with insurance companies or signing any documents before consulting with a lawyer. Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts, and our West Seneca slip and fall lawyers can protect your rights during this process.  

What Compensation Is Available in a Slip and Fall Case?

Individuals injured in slip and fall accidents may be eligible to recover compensation for various damages. These can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future costs related to ongoing treatment or rehabilitation. The specific amount of compensation depends on the severity of the injuries, the impact on the individual’s ability to work, and the degree of negligence involved.

‘Economic’ damages, such as medical bills and lost income, are typically easier to calculate because they involve tangible costs. ‘Non-economic’ damages, like pain and suffering, are more subjective and may require evidence like testimony from medical professionals or documentation of how the injury has affected daily life. In some cases, ‘punitive’ damages may be awarded if the property owner’s conduct was particularly reckless.

How Can a Lawyer Help with a Slip and Fall Case?

A lawyer can play a vital role in pursuing a slip and fall claim by handling legal matters and advocating for the injured individual. After a consultation and signed engagement agreement, they get to work investigating the accident, gathering evidence, identifying liable parties, and negotiating with insurance companies. This allows the injured party to focus on recovery while their legal rights are protected. Our West Seneca slip and fall lawyers also advise clients on whether to accept settlement offers or proceed to trial. Legal representation is particularly important in cases involving significant injuries or disputes over liability, as these situations often require a thorough understanding of premises liability law and court procedures.

Let the West Seneca Slip and Fall Lawyers at Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys Pursue Justice for Your Injuries

Seeking legal guidance is an important step toward obtaining the compensation you deserve after experiencing a serious injury. The West Seneca slip and fall lawyers at Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys are here to help you every step of the way. For a free initial consultation, call our Hamburg, New York office at 716-648-3030 or submit our online form. We proudly serve clients in West Seneca, Orchard Park, Lackawanna, Cheektowaga, Erie County, and the rest of the county.