Monmouth County Slip and Fall Lawyers

Slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries that impact daily life, work, and overall well-being. These incidents often occur due to hazardous conditions on properties that should have been addressed by the responsible party. When someone is injured in a slip and fall accident, they may have legal options to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Pursuing a legal claim requires a thorough examination of the circumstances, applicable laws, and evidence supporting liability. That is where the Monmouth County slip and fall lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC can help. Our team provides guidance on these cases and fights for client rights.

What Are Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents?

Slip and fall accidents can occur in a variety of settings, including grocery stores, office buildings, parking lots, and private residences. Common causes include:

Wet or slippery floors inside stores and restaurants.
Uneven surfaces on sidewalks and parking lots.
Inadequate lighting in parking lots and hallways.
Broken handrails in apartment buildings and subway stations.
Ice or snow accumulation on sidewalks and parking lots.
Loose carpeting or rugs in homes and offices.
Cluttered indoor and outside walkways.

Those situations are often caused by owner or manager negligence. In some of the worst-case scenarios, those issues lead to serious injuries, such as fractures, brain injuries, and spinal damage.

What Should I Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in Monmouth County?

After a slip and fall accident, seek medical attention. Even if injuries do not seem serious, some conditions may not present symptoms immediately. A physician can document the injuries and establish a connection between the accident and the harm suffered.

Reporting the incident to the property owner or manager is also important, as this creates an official record of what occurred. If possible, gathering evidence such as photographs of the hazardous condition, witness contact information, and any available surveillance footage can be beneficial.

Our Monmouth County slip and fall lawyers advise against making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of fault. Insurance companies and property owners may attempt to minimize liability, so watch what you say.

How Can Liability Be Established in a Slip and Fall Case?

Liability in a slip and fall case is based on negligence, which means proving that a property owner or manager failed to maintain safe conditions. Evidence must demonstrate that the responsible party knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to address it. This could include situations such as wet floors without warning signs, broken stairs, uneven pavement, or poor lighting.

You must also show that the dangerous condition directly caused the accident and subsequent injuries. Surveillance footage, maintenance records, and witness testimony can support that part of your claim.

What Compensation May Be Available for a Slip and Fall Injury?

Compensation in a slip and fall case may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.

Medical expenses can include emergency room visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
Lost wages apply to the income missed due to the injury.
Pain and suffering account for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.

Each case is unique, and the amount of compensation depends on the severity of the injuries, the impact on daily life, and the degree of negligence involved. Our Monmouth County slip and fall lawyers can explain what compensation may be available based on the specifics of your case.

How Long Does Someone Have to File a Slip and Fall Claim?

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a slip and fall claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. If a claim is not filed within this time frame, the injured party may lose the ability to seek compensation. However, certain exceptions may apply, such as cases involving government property or minors, which could affect the deadline.

It is advisable to begin the legal process as soon as possible to preserve evidence and witness statements. Delays can make it more challenging to prove liability and recover damages. Consulting with our Monmouth County team early in the process can help you make those important deadlines and strengthen the case.

What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that an injured person can still recover damages even if they were partially at fault, as long as their responsibility does not exceed 50 percent. However, the compensation may be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned to the injured party.

For example, if a court determines that you were 20 percent responsible for the fall, your total compensation would be reduced by that percentage. That is why having strong evidence and legal representation is important. We can help present a compelling case that minimizes assigned fault and maximizes potential compensation.

How Can I Avoid Slip and Fall Accidents?

Slip and fall accidents can lead to serious injuries, but taking preventive measures can reduce the risk:

Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes with good traction and support.
Keep Walkways Clear: Remove clutter, cords, and loose rugs.
Use Adequate Lighting: Keep hallways, stairs, and entrances well-lit.
Clean Spills Immediately: Dry wet floors to prevent slipping.
Hold Handrails: Use railings when walking on stairs.
Be Cautious in Bad Weather: Use salt or mats to prevent icy surfaces.

Staying aware and maintaining safe conditions can help prevent falls. Yet, even the most conscientious people get hurt when preventable hazards are not addressed. When that happens, our team is ready to help.