When property owners invite people onto their land, the general expectation is that the property will be safe. If it is not safe and people get harmed in an accident, the owner should be held accountable. They should be doing everything that they can to prevent falls and injuries. If they do not make an effort to maintain a safe property and you get hurt as a result, our Queens slip & fall accident attorneys may be able to help you.
What Are Some Common Injuries From Falls?
Falls can cause minor scrapes and bruises, but they can also cause serious injuries. It’s not uncommon for victims to come away with:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries, like concussions
- Neck and back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
What’s worse is that falls for older people can be even more traumatic. Injuries like broken hips are common, and this can affect someone’s mobility for the rest of their lives. Some seniors also develop a fear of falling after falling once, and this can prevent them from living their lives to the fullest.
Can a Property Owner Really Prevent Falls on Their Property?
A property owner may not be able to prevent every accident from happening, but they need to do their best to deal with obvious hazards. When they notice a safety issue like these, they should act:
- Broken handrails on a staircase
- Uneven walkways
- Damaged stairs
- Poor lighting
- Holes
- Wet or slippery floors
- Debris from construction or other work
- Exposed cords
If the problem can be addressed, it needs to be fixed as soon as possible. If there is no way to deal with a safety hazard right away, then something needs to be done to warn people who are invited onto the property. Putting down a wet floor sign is a good example.
How Long Do I Have to Sue for Damages?
If you decide to sue for damages, you should act quickly. New York gives you three years to sue, which can seem like a long time, but you do not want to miss your chance to pursue compensation. Plus, the sooner you act, the sooner one of our experienced personal injury lawyers can begin building your case!
There is another thing that’s important to know though. If you fell and got injured on government property, you cannot wait three years to sue. You must file a claim and tell the state, city, or whoever is in charge of the property about your intent to sue within 90 days.
Consult With an Attorney Today
If you were hurt on someone else’s property, you may have options. Contact the Law Offices of George Poulos and ask to schedule a free initial consultation. We can take a closer look at your case and tell you more about what we can do to guide you through the legal process.
