The walking and driving surfaces of New York state can often be dangerous to maneuver, even when it comes to parking lots. If you slipped, tripped, or otherwise were seriously injured in a parking lot accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Read on to learn what to do after your involvement in a parking lot accident and how one of the seasoned Queens slip & fall attorneys at The Law Offices of George Poulos can help you take legal action against the negligent party.
How are parking lot accidents frequently caused in New York state?
A parking lot owner is responsible for the conditions of their property. This means that they have a duty to regularly inspect and maintain their property to protect passersby, and if there is a hazard that can cause an injury, they must fix it within a reasonable amount of time. With that being said, below are examples of hazards that frequently cause parking lot accidents in New York state:
- Weather-related hazards, such as ice or snow, that are left unclear on walking and driving surfaces.
- Standing water or otherwise slippery liquids that are left uncleared on walking and driving surfaces.
- Poor lighting.
- Uneven pavement on walking surfaces.
- Potholes on driving surfaces.
- Loose debris.
- Dangerous substances.
- Negligent signage.
- Inadequate security.
How do I recover damages from my parking lot accident?
Not every parking lot injury is caused by a property owner’s negligence, but when it is, you have a right to recover damages, such as overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and an impacted quality of life. With your personal injury claim, you have to meet your burden of proof. This means that you need to prove the relationship between your damages and the property owner’s negligence. Immediately after your accident occurs, it is in your best interest to follow the below steps:
- Call 911: a police officer will dispatch an ambulance and conduct a police report, a document you should retain a copy of.
- Document the scene: take photos and videos of your injuries, damages, and hazards.
- Collect witnesses’ contact information: ask for their name, phone number, and email address, as they can provide witness testimonies afterward.
- Seek medical attention: do so even if you do not notice injuries, as you will need this documentation afterward. Also, some injuries, such as concussions, are not visibly or immediately noticeable.
- Gather medical documentation: this documentation should include the date, time, and severity of your injuries. Also, collect medical bills that show the costs of your necessary treatments.
- Contact one of the knowledgeable Queens personal injury attorneys: our firm can help you collect additional evidence, such as surveillance footage.
Contact our Firm
The Law Offices of George Poulos is an experienced Workers’ Compensation, personal injury, and Social Security Disability law firm with offices in Queens and the Bronx. If you require strong legal representation, contact our firm today.
