Somerville Slip and Fall Lawyers

If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident in Somerville, New Jersey, it is essential to understand your rights. Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, from grocery stores and shopping malls to sidewalks and private residences. When property owners fail to maintain safe environments, accidents can result in serious injuries. At Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P., our Somerville slip and fall lawyers are dedicated to helping victims recover the compensation they deserve for their injuries.

What Is a Slip and Fall Accident?

A slip and fall accident occurs when an individual loses their balance and falls due to a hazardous condition on someone else’s property. Various factors, including wet or slippery floors, uneven pavement, poor lighting, or cluttered walkways can cause these accidents. While these accidents may seem minor, they can result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and more.

Property owners, including businesses, municipalities, and homeowners, are legally obligated to maintain their premises safely. When they fail to address known hazards or warn visitors about potential dangers, they can be held liable for injuries caused by slip and fall accidents.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents in Somerville

Slip and fall accidents can occur in many locations, and a combination of factors often causes them. Some of the most common causes include:

• Wet or Slippery Surfaces: Spilled liquids, snow, or ice that have not been properly cleared can create hazardous conditions, especially in high-traffic areas such as grocery stores, restaurants, and parking lots.
• Uneven or Damaged Flooring: Cracked sidewalks, potholes, or torn carpets in a home or business can cause individuals to trip and fall.
• Poor Lighting: Insufficient lighting in stairways, hallways, or parking lots can make it difficult for individuals to see potential hazards and avoid accidents.
• Cluttered Walkways: Obstacles such as boxes, wires, or debris left in walkways can create trip hazards, especially in workplaces, retail stores, and public spaces.
• Lack of Warning Signs: When property owners fail to post warning signs for hazardous conditions, such as wet floors or construction zones, visitors may not be aware of the risks.

Liability for Slip and Fall Accidents in Somerville

Under New Jersey law, property owners are responsible for maintaining their property reasonably and safely. When an accident occurs due to a dangerous condition the property owner knew about or should have known about, they may be liable for any resulting injuries. There are three types of visitors under New Jersey’s premises liability laws:

• Invitees: Individuals on the property for business purposes, such as customers in a store or clients in a restaurant, are considered invitees. Property owners owe invitees the highest duty of care and must take reasonable steps to ensure their safety.
• Licensees: Individuals on the property for social purposes, such as guests at a private residence, are considered licensees. Property owners must warn licensees of any known dangers but are not required to inspect their property for hazards.
• Trespassers: Individuals who enter the property without permission are considered trespassers. Property owners owe trespassers the least amount of responsibility but can still not willfully harm them.

To establish liability in a slip and fall case, the injured party must demonstrate that the property owner was negligent. This may involve showing that the owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition, failed to fix it, and did not provide adequate warning signs.

Types of Injuries Caused by Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may have long-lasting effects. Common injuries from slip and fall accidents include:

• Broken Bones: Fractures to the arms, legs, or hips are common, especially in older adults with weaker bones.
• Head Injuries: Falls that cause a blow to the head can lead to concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
• Spinal Cord Injuries: A fall that impacts the back or neck can result in spinal cord damage, which can lead to paralysis or long-term mobility issues.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and tears in muscles, ligaments, and tendons are common in slip and fall cases.
• Knee Injuries: When a person falls awkwardly, Damage to the knee joint, such as tears to ligaments or cartilage, can occur.
• Sprained Ankles: A fall that causes a person to twist or roll their ankle can result in painful sprains.

These injuries can be life-altering, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and, in some cases, permanent disability. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, it is critical to seek medical attention and consult an experienced Somerville slip and fall lawyer to protect your rights.

What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident

If you are injured in a slip and fall accident, taking the right steps afterward can help support your case. Here are some important actions to take:

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, it is important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
• Report the Incident: If the accident occurred on someone else’s property, report it to the property owner or manager. Request a copy of the incident report for your records.
• Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the hazards that caused the fall. If possible, take pictures of the area, including any wet floors, damaged surfaces, or warning signs.
• Gather Witness Information: If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information. Their testimony can be crucial in proving liability.
• Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid apologizing or admitting fault, as this could be used against you later in the case.
• Contact a Lawyer: An experienced slip and fall lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, investigate the cause of the accident, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. for Your Slip and Fall Case

At Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P., we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a slip and fall injury can take on you and your family. Our dedicated Somerville slip and fall lawyers have the experience and knowledge to handle complex premises liability cases.

We work tirelessly to investigate your accident’s circumstances, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. Our team is committed to fighting for fair compensation, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We offer personalized legal representation and are here to guide you every step of the way.

The Somerville Slip and Fall Lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. Will Help You Today

If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, do not wait to seek legal help. The Somerville slip and fall lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. are ready to provide free consultation to discuss your case. Call 732-247-3600 or contact us online. Located in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Freehold, New Jersey, we serve clients in Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Somerset County.