Slip and fall accidents are often disregarded as small accidents that do not result in serious injuries, much less permanent disability. On the contrary, slip and fall injuries are very serious and they often have catastrophic consequences, particularly for individuals who are over the age of 65. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, slip and fall accidents are the leading cause of death in older Americans. In fact, according to the agency, over 29 million older Americans experienced falls in 2014 and these falls resulted in about $31 billion in Medicare costs.
Slip and falls can happen at any place and at any time. When an accident occurs while in another’s property, however, injured people may be able to recover compensation. If you or someone you love has suffered a slip and fall while in a public or private place, it is essential to seek the legal support of a skilled law firm. With the support of a qualified law firm, it may be possible to obtain a fair compensation that can help cover the costs that resulted from the injury.
Slip and Fall Injuries are Expensive, Fight For Your Right to Compensation
A slip and fall injury can have devastating consequences, and for an injured person, having the ability to return to work after an accident can be a challenge. As a consequence, financial instability is a common consequence of slip and fall accidents. If you or someone you love was injured in a slip and fall accident, it is essential to seek the legal support of an attorney.
At the Harrell, Smith & Williams, LLC law firm, helping clients obtain a fair settlement after a negligent slip and fall is important. The firm is diligent in investigating each case and is also aggressive in helping victims obtain the maximum amount of compensation possible. Slip and fall accidents have serious consequences but filing a claim can be a complex and daunting process. After a slip and fall, obtain the support of a law firm who will be dedicated in defending your rights and interests; consider contacting the support of Harrell, Smith & Williams, LLC today.
Premises Liability Claims in New Jersey
Slip and fall accidents fall under the umbrella of premises liability law. In the State of New Jersey, the law requires business owners, property managers, and government agencies to ensure that their property or establishment is reasonably free from dangers that could result in accidents. When a danger is present, property owners need to repair the condition or warn visitors of the potential hazard. Failing to respond appropriately can lead to a serious injury, and the property owner could be held accountable for the victim’s damages.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
A slip and fall accident can occur while a person is indoors but it can also happen while outdoors. These accidents can arise from structural problems, inclement weather, or accidental spills.
Eroded or Lifted Sidewalks
Like every type of infrastructure, sidewalks begin to deteriorate over an extended period of time. In some cases, sidewalk slabs can also lift as a result of water damage or because of growing tree roots. Falls that occur as a result of an eroded, cracked, or lifted sidewalk can be complex and depending on where the accident took place, a government agency may be responsible. This is because most sidewalks are public areas that are maintained by local government agencies and filing a claim against a government agency in New Jersey may not be possible.
According to the New Jersey Tort Claims Act, the State of New Jersey abides by the common-law theory of “sovereign immunity”. This rule essentially prevents people from bringing a claim against a government agency, but there are specific exceptions to this rule. Although there is a possibility to file a claim against a government agency, the New Jersey Tort Claims Act specifies very strict limitations.
Insufficient Lighting
Walkways or parking areas that have insufficient lighting can be dangerous. It is easy for anyone to slip, trip, or fall when there is low visibility. Unfortunately, places that are dimly lit most often involve concrete surfaces, where a simple fall can result in devastating injuries such as a traumatic brain injury.
Missing or Unstable Handrails
Staircases or ramps that have loose handrails can cause dangerous trips and falls. A majority of people who use a stairwell will generally trust that the stairwell is sturdy and that the handrail will support them. Handrails can deteriorate with frequent use and it is a property manager’s responsibility to ensure that these are properly working. A property owner who neglects to make appropriate repairs can be held accountable for a victim’s injuries.
Wet or Slippery Floors
Slippery floor accidents are common, especially in grocery stores and restaurants. While property managers are not obligated to constantly wipe down floors, they do have a duty to ensure the safety of their visitors. In some cases, this may mean that they will need to be extra attentive if there is rainy weather that could cause wet floors. In other cases, they could be held accountable if they knew about a hazardous slippery condition and failed to take action on repairing the condition or warning others of the possible dangers.
Obtain Proficient Legal Representation Following a Slip and Fall in New Jersey
Premises liability cases can easily become complex, depending on where the slip and fall took place. Nonetheless, a slip and fall victim has a right to compensation when the accident was caused as a result of the property manager’s negligence. If you suffered injuries after a slip and fall accident, obtain the support of a well-versed attorney who will investigate the claim and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
With more than a decade in dedicated experience, Harrell, Smith & Williams, LLC has helped thousands of victims obtain the financial restitution they deserve following a slip and fall accident. The firm is well-versed in some of the most complex premises liability cases in New Jersey. Consider contacting the attorneys at Harrell, Smith & Williams, LLC today.
