New Jersey Slip and Fall Lawyers

FIGHTING FOR NEW JERSEY SLIP AND FALL VICTIMS

You’ve likely slipped and fallen at some point in your life. Fortunately, for most of us, it’s a minor inconvenience that we can easily shake off. However, some slip-and-fall accidents result in serious injuries; in many cases, someone else’s negligence is to blame. When property owners or establishments fail to take adequate precautions to ensure the safety of their premises, innocent people can suffer.

If you’ve been the victim of a slip and fall incident, it’s crucial to seek the guidance of an experienced legal team. That holds true even if your injuries initially seem minor. Some injuries may take weeks or even months to manifest fully, and the consequences of slip and fall accidents can range from poor health outcomes to tragic fatalities.

That’s why Richard Hollawell and his dedicated team are committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you and your family deserve.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today at 1-800-681-3550 or use the convenient form below for a free consultation.

DO YOU HAVE A SLIP AND FALL CASE IN NJ?

Many personal injuries occur outside the home, on properties owned by someone else. If you’ve been injured while shopping, visiting a commercial establishment, or even on public or residential property, you may be entitled to compensation under New Jersey law.

It’s imperative to consult with an experienced New Jersey premises liability attorney before the statute of limitations expires or before the property owner offers a settlement that falls short of what you truly deserve. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a negligent property owner’s failure to address or inspect safety hazards, contact the Richard Hollawell team. We will help you assess the severity of your case.

NEGLIGENT NEW JERSEY PROPERTY OWNERS

Under premises liability law, home and business owners have a legal duty to keep visitors safe from harm. Property owners must maintain certain standards to ensure their premises’ safety and prevent accidents such as slips and falls. While property owners are not expected to guarantee all visitors’ safety, they must take reasonable measures to protect them.

TYPES OF NEGLIGENCE THAT CAN LEAD TO A SLIP AND FALL

Various hazardous conditions can lead to slip-and-fall accidents at shopping centers, commercial office buildings, and other public places.

Some common examples include:

• Insufficient Lighting: Poorly lit stairwells, hallways, or walkways can lead to slip-and-fall injuries. Property owners must ensure that adequate lighting is provided to prevent such accidents. 
• Uneven Walkways: Broken or cracked sidewalks and walkways can pose serious trip-and-fall hazards. Property owners should regularly inspect and maintain these areas to prevent accidents.
• Accumulations of Snow or Ice: Uncleared snow and ice on walkways can lead to hazardous slip-and-fall accidents, especially during winter. Property owners have a duty to remove or treat ice and snow promptly to prevent injuries.
• Slippery Floors: Wet or slippery surfaces, such as spilled liquids, can result in falls that cause fractures and other injuries. Property owners must promptly address spills and maintain safe flooring conditions.
• Unsafe Structural Conditions: Structural issues like crumbling stairs, broken revolving doors, malfunctioning escalators, dangerous elevators, unsecured scaffolding, and defective railings or ramps can lead to accidents. Property owners must address these issues promptly to ensure safety.
• Falling Objects: Improperly placed displays or merchandise falling from shelves can cause serious injuries. Property owners must secure objects to prevent them from falling and causing harm.
• Inadequate Security Resulting in Assault: Property owners are responsible for providing adequate security to protect visitors from foreseeable harm. Inadequate security measures can lead to assaults and injuries, making property owners liable.
• Parking Lot Falling: Poorly maintained parking lots with uneven surfaces or insufficient lighting can lead to slip and fall accidents. Property owners should ensure the safety of their parking areas.
• Toxic Fumes or Substances: Exposure to toxic chemicals or substances due to negligence can result in severe health issues. Property owners must take precautions to prevent such exposures.
• Lead Poisoning: Lead paint can be a hidden danger in older buildings. Property owners must address lead paint hazards, especially in properties where children may be present.
• Fire Hazards: Failure to address fire hazards and maintain fire safety systems can lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Property owners must ensure that their premises comply with fire safety regulations.
• Plants or Trees That Obscure Drivers’ Views: Overgrown or improperly maintained vegetation can obstruct drivers’ views, leading to accidents. Property owners should maintain clear lines of sight for drivers.
• Violations of Building Codes: Failure to adhere to building codes can create unsafe conditions on a property, leading to accidents and injuries. Property owners must comply with all relevant building codes.
• Dog Attacks: Property owners who allow dangerous dogs on their premises without adequate precautions can be held liable for injuries caused by dog attacks.
• Construction Debris: Construction sites must be properly maintained to prevent debris and materials from causing accidents. Property owners and contractors share responsibility for site safety.
• Exposed Electrical Equipment: Exposure to electrical equipment due to inadequate safety measures can result in electrocution. Property owners must ensure that electrical equipment is safely maintained and protected.
• Swimming Pool Injuries: Inadequately maintained swimming pools can be a significant hazard, leading to drownings or other injuries. Property owners must follow safety regulations for pools.

NJ SLIP AND FALL FAQs

Understanding your rights and responsibilities in a New Jersey slip and fall accident is essential.

To help you navigate this often-complicated area of law, the Richard Hollawell team has compiled a list of frequently asked questions related to slip and fall cases in New Jersey.

What is a Slip and Fall Accident?

A slip-and-fall accident occurs when someone slips, trips, or falls on someone else’s property due to hazardous conditions such as wet floors, icy walkways, uneven surfaces, or debris. These accidents can result in injuries ranging from minor bruises to severe fractures or head trauma.

Who is Liable in a Slip and Fall Case?

Property owners or occupiers are generally responsible for maintaining a safe environment. To establish liability, you must prove that the property owner or occupier was negligent in addressing the hazardous condition that led to your accident. That includes showing they knew or should have known about the dangerous situation.

What Should I Do After a Slip and Fall Accident?

Immediately after a slip and fall accident, prioritize your health and safety. Seek medical attention for your injuries, even if they initially seem minor. It’s crucial to document your injuries for future legal purposes. Report the incident to the property owner, manager, or relevant authority, and gather evidence, such as photos of the scene, witness statements, and any accident reports.

Is There a Time Limit to File a Slip and Fall Lawsuit in New Jersey?

Yes, New Jersey has a statute of limitations for slip and fall lawsuits of two years from the accident date or until the age of 20 if the injured party was under 18. Failing to file a claim within this timeframe can result in your case being dismissed.

How Is Compensation Determined in a Slip and Fall Case?

Compensation, or damages, in a slip and fall case, can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of your injuries and the property owner’s negligence. Compensation may cover medical bills, pain and suffering, lost income, and other related costs.

Can I Sue if I Slipped on Snow or Ice?

Yes, you can sue if you slipped on snow or ice. Still, the case’s success depends on factors such as whether the property owner was negligent in clearing the snow or ice and if your actions also contributed to the accident. New Jersey has specific laws governing snow and ice removal, so it’s essential to consult with an attorney experienced in handling such cases.

Should I Hire an Attorney for My Slip and Fall Case?

Yes. It is highly advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney in New Jersey if you’ve been involved in a slip and fall accident. An attorney can assess the merits of your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary, increasing your chances of obtaining fair compensation.

Can I Still Sue if I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

You can still pursue a slip-and-fall lawsuit even if you were partially at fault. New Jersey follows the rule of comparative negligence, meaning that your compensation may be reduced proportionally to your level of responsibility. You can still recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault.

Navigating a slip-and-fall case in New Jersey can be challenging, but understanding these FAQs can provide a foundation to build upon. Consulting a qualified attorney is crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve after a slip and fall accident.

SETTING UP A CONSULTATION FOR YOUR SLIP-AND-FALL CASE

If you believe you have a premises liability claim, it’s essential to act promptly. Once an injury occurs, the property owner may attempt to cover up negligence, making it vital to gather evidence to support your case.

The attorneys at Richard J. Hollawell & Associates are dedicated to proving your case and securing the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve fallen victim to a property owner’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for:

• Hospital bills
• Lost wages due to an inability to work
• Emotional hardship and suffering

Don’t delay; call us today to schedule a consultation with Richard Hollawell at 1-800-681-3550 or online via our convenient contact form.

We’re here to fight for your rights and help you navigate the path to justice and recovery.