Not every slip and fall accident in New Brunswick is serious, but when negligence is involved, even a simple fall can lead to painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and long-term consequences. If you were hurt due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation under New Jersey’s premises liability laws.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents?
Most serious slip and fall accidents have one thing in common: they could have been prevented with proper care. New Jersey law requires property owners, landlords, business operators, and property managers to maintain reasonably safe conditions for visitors, customers, and guests. Failing to do so may lead to liability for injuries.
Frequent causes of slip and fall accidents include:
Wet or slick floors without proper signage
Uneven sidewalks or flooring
Inadequate lighting in stairwells or hallways
Broken handrails or loose steps
Obstructed or cluttered walkways
Ice or snow accumulation that hasn’t been addressed
Recently waxed or polished floors
Torn or unsecured carpeting and rugs
Potholes or cracks in parking lots
Extension cords or wires in walking areas
Slip and falls account for more than 1 million emergency room visits annually across the U.S., according to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI). In New Jersey, they are one of the most common reasons for personal injury claims.
How Serious Are Slip and Fall Injuries?
Although often portrayed in media as minor mishaps, slip and fall incidents can cause debilitating injuries, especially among older adults or those with pre-existing conditions. Common injuries include:
Sprains and Strains: Soft tissue injuries may require physical therapy and long-term rehabilitation.
Fractures: Broken bones are common, especially in the wrists, arms, hips, and ankles, as victims instinctively try to break their fall.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Falls are a leading cause of concussions and more severe brain injuries that may require extended care.
Spinal Cord Damage: A fall that twists the spine or impacts the back can lead to herniated discs or even paralysis.
Knee Injuries: Torn ligaments or meniscus tears often result from twisting or awkward landings.
Shoulder Injuries: Dislocations or rotator cuff tears may occur when attempting to brace a fall.
These injuries may affect your ability to work, perform daily activities, or enjoy life as you once did.
What Should I Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in New Brunswick?
If you slip and fall, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim:
Seek medical attention. Call 911 or visit an emergency room right away. Injuries may be more serious than they initially appear.
Report the incident. Notify the property owner, store manager, or building supervisor.
Document the scene. If possible, take photos of the area where you fell, including any hazards (wet floor, broken tile, ice, etc.).
Get witness information. If anyone saw what happened, ask for their name and contact info.
Preserve evidence. Keep copies of medical records, receipts, and correspondence related to your injury.
Speak with a lawyer before talking to the insurance company. Insurers may try to minimize your claim. A lawyer can help protect your rights.
Under New Jersey law, you have two years from the date of the fall to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline—known as the statute of limitations—may bar you from seeking compensation altogether.
What Compensation Can I Recover for a Slip and Fall Injury?
A successful personal injury claim may help you recover compensation for a wide range of losses, including:
Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, physical therapy, surgeries, medications, and projected future care.
Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work.
Diminished Earning Capacity: If your injury limits your ability to return to your previous job or career.
Pain and Suffering: Including physical pain, mental anguish, PTSD, and reduced quality of life.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If you can no longer engage in activities you once loved.
New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means your compensation may be reduced if you were partially responsible for the fall. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your total recovery will be reduced by 20%. However, if you are more than 50% responsible, you may be barred from recovering damages entirely.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a New Brunswick Slip and Fall Accident Case?
Slip and fall claims can be surprisingly complex. A personal injury lawyer can:
Investigate the scene and preserve time-sensitive evidence.
Determine liability and identify all responsible parties.
Work with medical experts to prove the extent of your injuries.
Handle all negotiations with insurance companies.
Fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses a fair settlement.
Insurance companies often try to downplay the seriousness of your injuries or shift blame onto you. Having experienced legal representation on your side can make all the difference in ensuring your rights are protected and your recovery is maximized.
Get Legal Help From Our New Brunswick Slip and Fall Accident Lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. (RAM Law)
At RAM Law, we combine compassion with determination to get results. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and work tirelessly to hold negligent property owners accountable. Don’t let an insurance company minimize your suffering or delay your recovery. Call our New Brunswick slip and fall accident lawyers at 732-247-3600 or complete our online contact form to schedule your free consultation today. Located in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, New Jersey, we serve clients in Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Somerset County.
