Slip and fall accidents on stairs: how to prove that the property owner was negligent and caused the accident

Slip and fall accidents on stairs are a common concern in daily life. Whether in a commercial building, a residential complex, or even in the workplace, stair accidents can cause serious injuries and have long-term consequences.

But what happens when the property owner is responsible for the accident? In this article, we will tell you what to do in such a situation, as well as the steps you need to take to prove that the property owner was negligent and caused the incident.

Keep in mind that a slip and fall accident on stairs can be very delicate, so it is important that you have the appropriate legal support. At Nonna Shikh Law, you can find top-notch lawyers ready to respond to the needs of your case and recover the compensation you deserve as a victim.

Call us now at 718-295-4000 or schedule a consultation so we can evaluate your case and give you the solution you need.

 

Also, check out: How to document and prove a slip and fall case in New York

 

How do I know if the property owner is responsible for my slip and fall accident on stairs?

 

Determining the responsibility of the property owner in a slip and fall accident on stairs can be a complex process. However, there are some key factors that you can consider to evaluate if the owner is responsible for your accident.

First, it is important to check if there was a hazardous condition on the stairs that caused your fall. For example, it may be evidence of negligence if the stairs were wet, loose, poorly lit, or did not have adequate handrails. Additionally, if the owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and did not take reasonable measures to correct it, it is more likely that responsibility will be attributed to them.

Second, you should consider if the property owner fulfilled their duty of reasonable care. This involves ensuring that the stairs are kept in good condition, regular inspections are carried out, necessary repairs are made, and appropriate safety measures are implemented. If the owner did not fulfill these responsibilities and this contributed to your accident, they could be considered negligent.

 

What should I do to prove the property owner’s responsibility in my accident?

 

To prove the property owner’s responsibility in your slip and fall accident on stairs, it is important to follow some key steps:

1. Gather evidence: Document everything related to the accident. Take photos of hazardous conditions on the stairs, such as broken steps, inadequate lighting, or slippery surfaces. If there are witnesses present, obtain their names and contact numbers. Additionally, keep any relevant reports or records, such as medical reports, healthcare bills, and communications with the owner.
2. Notify the owner: Inform the property owner about the accident as soon as possible. Do it in writing and keep a copy of the notification. Describe in detail how the accident happened and mention the hazardous conditions that contributed to it.
3. Seek medical attention: Seek immediate medical attention after the accident, even if your injuries seem minor. This will not only ensure your well-being but also create a medical record that supports your claims of accident-related injuries.
4. Collect testimonies: If there are eyewitnesses to the accident, request their statements in writing or ask them to provide their testimonies in the presence of a notary. The testimonies of impartial witnesses can be fundamental to support your version of events and demonstrate the owner’s negligence.
5. Preserve any additional evidence: If there are security cameras on the property, request that the owner preserves relevant recordings of the accident. You can also seek additional evidence, such as maintenance reports or repair records, that demonstrate a lack of proper care by the owner.
6. Consult a personal injury lawyer: A lawyer experienced in slip and fall cases can provide legal guidance and help you gather solid evidence to prove the owner’s responsibility. The lawyer can evaluate your case, negotiate with the opposing party, and, if necessary, represent you in a legal process.

Our lawyers at Nonna Shikh Law are willing to help you, accompanying you throughout the necessary process, from evaluating your case to determining responsibilities, to taking legal actions to claim the compensation you deserve.

 

Work with the best accident lawyers in New York

 

If you have suffered a slip and fall accident on stairs and believe that the property owner was negligent and responsible for your injury, it is crucial to take the appropriate steps to prove their responsibility.

At Shikh Law, we understand the challenges you face after an accident and are here to help you seek justice and compensation you deserve. Our accident lawyers are highly trained and, with over 25 years of experience in slip and fall cases, know very well how to defend your rights.

Do not allow the owner’s negligence to go unpunished. Call us at 718-295-4000 or schedule a consultation. We will fight for your economic recovery through 100% personalized attention. We also speak Spanish! Contact us today for a free consultation.

 

You may also be interested in: Legal Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident Resulting in Injuries

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What evidence do I need to prove the property owner’s responsibility in a slip and fall accident on stairs case?

To prove the property owner’s responsibility in a slip and fall accident on stairs case, you need evidence such as photographs of hazardous conditions on the stairs, testimonies from eyewitnesses, records of communications with the owner about the situation, medical reports documenting your injuries, and any other relevant document that supports your claim. Each of these pieces of evidence will help you establish the owner’s negligence and lack of proper maintenance of the stairs, thus strengthening your legal case.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a slip and fall accident on stairs?

In New York City, you generally have a three-year statute of limitations from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for a slip and fall accident on stairs. However, it is important to note that legal deadlines may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case, so it is important to consult with your lawyer beforehand.

Why do I need the legal assistance of personal injury lawyers?

Legal assistance from personal injury lawyers is crucial in cases of slip and fall accidents on stairs, as they can help you gather solid evidence, communicate with the parties involved, and fight for your legal rights. 

If you were a victim of a slip and fall accident on stairs in New York, don’t wait until time runs out to receive the benefits you deserve. Call us now at 718-295-4000 or schedule a consultation so we can help you seek justice and assert your rights.