Slip-and-Fall Lawyers in Buffalo, NY

Every year, around 1 million people visit an emergency room because of a slip-and-fall accident. Injuries range from bruises to broken bones, but sometimes these accidents can be fatal. Most slip-and-fall accidents are preventable and are the result of negligence. If you have been injured in this type of accident in western New York, the slip-and-fall lawyers at Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law, PLLC, can help.

Common Causes of Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Slip and Fall Lawyers Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law

Slip-and-fall accidents are almost always preventable. Here are some of the most common causes of slip-and-fall accidents:

  • Wet or uneven walking surfaces
  • Winter weather conditions
  • Poor training
  • Stray cords or electrical wires
  • Improper footwear
  • Poor lighting conditions
  • Broken or damaged handrails

Spilled liquids, poor stairway maintenance, pavement defects, and torn carpeting are also common causes of slip-and-fall accidents.

Liability for Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Many people just assume that it’s their fault when they slip and fall. However, business owners, landlords, and property owners become responsible when they are aware of hazards and take no action to warn others or correct the issues.

When the negligent actions of some cause pain and injury to others, those who are negligent can be held legally responsible.

How Slip-and-Fall Lawyers Determine Liability

The owner of a property or the person responsible for its maintenance can also be liable for accidents on the property. Every case is different, and the details of your accident matter. Slip-and-fall lawyers must prove the following three points to determine the negligence of the property owner or manager:

  1. A dangerous condition caused your fall and injuries
  2. The property owner failed to correct or warn you about the unsafe conditions
  3. The owner knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to take reasonable steps to make the property safe

Property owners or managers are responsible for maintaining their property in a reasonably safe condition. If your attorney can prove the above statements were true, you may have a successful personal injury lawsuit.

Common Locations for Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Slip-and-fall accidents can happen almost anywhere, but common locations include:

  • Grocery Stores and Retail Shops: Spills, wet floors, and clutter in the aisles can lead to slips and trips. Store owners and managers are responsible for maintaining safe conditions for shoppers.
  • Parking Lots: Uneven pavement, poor lighting, and debris in parking lots can create dangerous conditions for pedestrians.
  • Workplaces: Employees may encounter slippery floors or obstructed walkways, making workplaces common sites for slip-and-fall incidents.
  • Private Residences: Homeowners can be held liable for injuries caused by hazardous conditions on their property, such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, and slippery pool areas.

For more information on preventing slip-and-fall accidents, visit the CDC’s guidelines on fall prevention.

Common Injuries Associated with Slips and Falls

Slips and falls are some of the most common causes of injuries in the United States. There are several different injuries associated with these incidents, including:

  • Bruises
  • Lacerations
  • Sprains
  • Strains
  • Torn ligaments
  • Fractured or broken bones
  • Knee damage
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Paralysis
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Death

If you have an injury from a slip-and-fall accident, you may be entitled to compensation. The slip-and-fall lawyers at Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law can assess your case and help you understand your legal rights.

Impact of Weather Conditions on Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Weather conditions significantly contribute to slip-and-fall accidents, especially rain, snow, and ice. Property owners have a responsibility to maintain safe conditions during inclement weather.

  • Rain: Wet surfaces can become slippery, making it essential for property owners to use non-slip mats and warning signs.
  • Snow: Snow buildup can obscure hazards and create slippery conditions as well. Clearing snow and applying salt or sand can help prevent accidents.
  • Ice: Icy walkways and stairs are particularly hazardous. Property owners should promptly de-ice essential areas.

If property owners do not take reasonable steps to ensure safety during adverse weather, they may be liable for the resulting injuries from slips and falls.

What to Do If You Are Injured in a Fall

If you are injured in a slip-and-fall accident, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim. There are some things you should do to protect your rights.

Seek Medical Attention

Call for emergency medical services. Submit to any evaluation they think is necessary, even if you don’t think your injury is serious. Keep any follow-up appointments and ask for copies of any documentation.

Contact the Property Owner or Responsible Party

Make the owner or manager aware of the hazard that caused your accident. Also, make sure they are aware of the injury you sustained.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Even if you think the accident might have been partially your fault, do not say that to anyone. If asked to submit a written statement, carefully avoid any wording that might shift blame to yourself, and do not apologize.

Document Everything

Make a note of the time and place of your accident. If you noticed any potential eyewitnesses, write down their contact information. If you are able, take photos of the location and the hazard that caused your fall. Also, take photos of your injury if it is visible.

Slip-and-fall lawyers would advise that taking these steps can help protect your right to file a personal injury lawsuit if that becomes necessary.

Compensation for Slip-and-Fall Injuries

If you or a loved one has been injured on someone else’s property by a fall because of unsafe conditions, you may be able to recover damages. The amount of compensation you get depends on the circumstances of your accident and the severity of your injuries. The more severe your injury, the more compensation you may be able to obtain.

Compensation for injuries can cover the following losses:

  • Current and future medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Lost income-earning ability
  • Required physical therapy
  • Long-term care
  • Pain and suffering
  • Wrongful death

Drawing on their experience and knowledge of personal injury law, the slip-and-fall lawyers at Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law can help you determine how much your case might be worth.

Documenting Your Injuries and Recovery

Thorough documentation of your injuries, treatment, and recovery is crucial for supporting your slip-and-fall claim. Here are some tips to help you document effectively:

  • Keep a Journal: Regularly note your pain levels, symptoms, and the impact of the injury on your daily life.
  • Medical Bills and Records: Save all medical bills, prescriptions, and treatment records. These documents provide essential evidence of your medical expenses and recovery process.
  • Take Pictures: Photograph your injuries immediately after the accident and throughout your recovery. Visual evidence can be compelling in demonstrating the severity and progression of your injuries.

Detailed documentation strengthens your claim and ensures you have the necessary evidence to seek fair compensation.

Benefits of Hiring Slip-and-Fall Lawyers

Hiring a lawyer can be beneficial in several ways. Strong legal representation can give you the peace of mind that your case is being properly handled. This allows you to focus on recovery or grief, depending on your circumstances.

Slip-and-fall lawyers can help you by:

  • Investigating your accident to gather facts and determine liability
  • Utilizing experts to build your case
  • Defending you if the property owner or insurance company tries to blame you
  • Negotiating with a strong case and solid evidence
  • Representing you at trial if negotiations are not successful

The slip-and-fall lawyers at Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law know how to build a strong personal injury case. By preparing for trial at every step, we can maximize the amount of compensation you may be offered during negotiations with insurance companies.

Relevant Statutes of Limitations

New York limits the amount of time an injured person has to initiate a lawsuit. If you think you were injured because of someone’s negligence, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

If you lost a loved one in a slip-and-fall accident, and someone else is to blame, you have two years from their date of death in which to file a wrongful death suit. If you file a lawsuit after the statute of limitations has passed, your case will likely be immediately dismissed.

Why Choose Slip-and-Fall Lawyers at Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law

A slip-and-fall lawyer should be your first choice for strong and personal representation if you’ve been injured because of a fall. At Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law, you’ll work with the same attorney and case manager from the beginning of your case to the end.

We make ourselves available to our clients as much as possible. This means you won’t have to wait long to speak with someone about your questions or concerns.

Our slip-and-fall lawyers are strong negotiators but are not afraid to take your case to trial if negotiations are unsuccessful. A willingness to litigate keeps us in a strong negotiating position, which can mean more compensation for you.

Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law can handle any legal need you have related to your injury. If you cannot work because of your accident, you may need help filing a claim for disability. We have the knowledge and experience to help you take care of everything.

Schedule A Free Consultation With Our Experienced Slip-and-Fall Lawyers Today

Call us today if you need representation because of a slip-and-fall injury. We will meet with you in a free, no-obligation consultation where we can listen to the details of your case and provide you with your legal options. At Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law, we can help you get the compensation you need and deserve.