Understanding Slip-and-Fall Accidents 

Slip-and-fall accidents often fall under the legal area known as premises liability, where property owners are responsible for maintaining safe conditions. When a visitor is injured due to hazardous conditions that a property owner knew about (or should have known about), the injured person may have grounds for a claim with the support of slip-and-fall lawyers. Kent Hazzard & Freeman ensures clients understand this complex process and know their rights.

Common Causes of Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Slip-and-fall cases often arise from conditions such as:

• Wet or slippery floors, frequently found in stores, malls, and restaurants.
• Poorly lit areas, such as stairwells or entryways.
• Uneven surfaces, like cracked sidewalks or poorly maintained floors.
• Ice or snow that has not been cleared promptly from walkways.

Kent Hazzard & Freeman helps clients gather evidence to prove how these hazardous conditions contributed to their injuries.

When Is a Property Owner Liable?

Establishing liability in slip-and-fall cases involves showing that the property owner neglected their duty of care. For Kent Hazzard & Freeman clients, the following criteria are essential for proving negligence:

1. Ownership or Control: Kent Hazzard and the team analyze who was responsible for the property at the time of the accident.
2. Negligence in Maintenance: The team assesses whether the property owner took reasonable steps to maintain safe conditions.
3. Causation: Proving that the hazardous condition directly caused the fall and resulting injuries.
4. Awareness of Hazard: It must be shown that the property owner knew or should have known about the danger.

For example, if a store owner neglects to address spilled liquid, they may be found negligent if a customer slips and is injured. Kent Hazzard and the team have successfully handled cases involving hidden hazards and poor maintenance, providing clients with the support needed to prove negligence.

Navigating Complications in Slip-and-Fall Cases

Slip-and-fall cases can be challenging due to the “open and obvious” rule. Some hazards, such as visibly uneven pavement, may be considered avoidable by a reasonable person. In such cases, Kent Hazzard and team diligently assess whether the hazard was unreasonably dangerous or if other factors—like insufficient lighting—contributed to the fall.

Collecting Evidence and Documentation

Documenting the incident is critical for building a solid case. Kent Hazzard & Freeman advises clients to:

• Take photographs of the accident scene immediately.
• Seek medical attention and obtain detailed records of injuries.
• Record witness statements if available.

Each piece of evidence you can provide to your slip-and-fall lawyer strengthens the case, showing that the property owner failed to uphold their duty to ensure a safe environment.

Medical Consequences of Slip-and-Fall Injuries

Slip-and-fall accidents may seem minor but can result in significant medical conditions, including:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Falls leading to head trauma can have lasting effects on memory, motor skills, and cognitive abilities.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Slips can cause damage to the spinal column, leading to chronic pain or limited mobility.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Hip and wrist fractures are common among older adults, sometimes requiring extensive rehabilitation.

Kent Hazzard & Freeman’s approach includes collaborating with medical professionals to document injuries thoroughly and ensure clients receive compensation for both immediate and long-term medical expenses.

Compensation in Slip-and-Fall Cases

Kent Hazzard and teamwork to secure the maximum compensation available for clients, which may include:

• Medical Expenses: This includes all related costs, from hospital stays to ongoing rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: Slip-and-fall injuries often lead to missed work, impacting financial stability.
• Pain and Suffering: Clients may be entitled to compensation for physical pain and the emotional impact of their injuries.
• Future Earnings: If the injury limits the client’s ability to work in the future, Kent Hazzard & Freeman seek compensation for diminished earning capacity.

The Process of Filing a Slip-and-Fall Lawsuit

Filing a lawsuit can feel overwhelming, but Kent Hazzard and team streamline this process for clients, managing each step with precision:

1. Initial Consultation and Case Review: Kent Hazzard & Freeman conducts a thorough assessment, determining the potential viability of a claim.
2. Evidence Collection and Investigation: Collecting documents, photographs, and witness statements strengthens the case.
3. Negotiations with Insurers: Kent Hazzard & Freeman negotiate with insurance companies, leveraging decades of experience to secure a fair settlement.
4. Litigation if Necessary: If settlement negotiations fail, the team is prepared to represent clients in court, advocating for the compensation they deserve.

Statute of Limitations in New York Slip-and-Fall Cases

Clients need to understand that New York imposes a strict statute of limitations on slip-and-fall claims, typically allowing three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Kent Hazzard & Freeman advise clients to act promptly, as delays can hinder the ability to collect vital evidence.

Why Choose Kent Hazzard & Freeman for Slip-and-Fall Lawyer Representation?

Kent Hazzard and team’s history of success as slip-and-fall lawyers stems from a commitment to personalized attention and detailed legal knowledge. The firm’s decades-long presence as slip-and-fall lawyers in Westchester County and a focus on client-centered representation make Kent Hazzard & Freeman a trusted choice for slip-and-fall cases.

In addition to legal experience, Kent Hazzard & Freeman offers compassionate support, helping clients navigate the physical and emotional challenges that often accompany serious injuries. The firm’s focus on diligent investigation, evidence-based claims, and strategic negotiation ensures clients are in capable hands. Contact us to speak with a slip-and-fall lawyer who can support you in your claim for compensation.