Slip & Fall Accidents in New Jersey

While out walking, an individual should always be aware of their surroundings and be careful of where they are walking. While that is important, it is still possible for a walk to result in injury. Accidents can happen when property conditions are not well maintained by the people who are responsible for them. This can sometimes result in a major injury such as concussions, broken bones, brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and more. There are several things to take into consideration if you are injured due to poor conditions.

Examples of Accidents

There are a few different ways a pedestrian can be injured on public or private property. Possible factors can include:

  • Weather conditions such as snow, ice, standing water, etc.
  • Surface damage of the area
  • Loose debris
  • Hazardous materials

If an injury occurs as a result of one of these factors, it must be addressed within a certain period of time. While it may be challenging to prove that certain dangerous conditions were present, a skilled attorney can help your case. In New Jersey, an individual typically has a two-year statute of limitations in accident cases. Some other personal injury cases fall under different limitations.

Liability

In the state of New Jersey, homeowners are expected to keep their property safe. This is the same for store owners, though they are held at a higher standard for customers. New Jersey law provides additional protection if an individual falls on a commercial property. In the event of filing a claim against the state, a county, or municipality, the Torts Claim Act is in place to file a negligence claim against a government.

Proving Negligence

While uncovering who is responsible for a slip and fall injury, it is important to provide what is called the “burden of proof.” The burden of proof requires the injured party to collect evidence of negligence, proving the property owner is responsible for your injury. This can help prove the owner of that property knew about the condition of the sidewalk and did not do anything to fix it. Medical documentation, pictures of the property and witnesses to the incident can be used as information.

Compensation for Injuries

If a legal case is successful, an individual may be able to receive financial compensation due to their injury. This may include:

  • Wages lost
  • Loss of future wages
  • Medical bills as a result of the injury
  • Loss of consortium
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress

Contact

If you have been injured in a sidewalk accident and wish to speak with an attorney about the best course of action for your incident, contact the Law Offices of Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C. today.

The law firm of Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C., is composed of experienced attorneys throughout the state of New Jersey. Please contact the office for a free initial consultation and get any questions answered regarding criminal charges and procedures.