Disclaimer: *Steve and Rich Barnes have obtained millions in recoveries for their clients and have supervised over $2.5 Billion Dollars in settlements.
Written by The Barnes Firm, reviewed by Richard Barnes
Rich Barnes
President
Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of emergency room visits and hospitalizations across the United States. These accidents can happen anywhere and can usually be traced back to a negligent property owner failing to maintain safety standards.
At The Barnes Firm, we know how serious the injuries resulting from a slip and fall accident can be. After an accident, call us at (800) 800-0000 and ask to speak with one of our experienced Buffalo slip and fall lawyers. We are here to help you handle the legal aspects surrounding your case so you can focus on recovering from the injuries you sustained.
“Alex Bouganim is the managing attorney at the Manhattan Office of The Barnes Firm. As managing attorney, Alex is responsible for overseeing all of the cases in the Manhattan Office. In addition to focusing his practice on general negligence cases, including car accidents, slip/trip and falls, and wrongful death cases, Alex is the Co-Chair of the firm’s construction site accident department. “
Injuries after a slip and fall can be serious and may leave you with expensive medical bills. In order to get the financial compensation, you deserve after a slip and fall accident, you should partner with trusted lawyers for slip and fall at The Barnes Firm. With over 100 years of combined experience, our attorneys are knowledgeable in New York State injury law and will work hard to get you the best result possible for your accident case. After a slip and fall accident, don’t accept the initial offer from insurance. Instead, call The Barnes Firm at (800) 800-0000 to find out what your case is worth. It could be the best call you make.
Slip and fall accidents can occur anywhere, anytime. Our team of attorneys have found some of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents include:
If one or more of these hazards existed on someone else’s property and caused you an injury, you have the right to pursue financial compensation. The Barnes Firm is here to help you do that. Our team of slip and fall attorneys are adamant about holding negligent property owners and managers responsible.
When it comes to slip and fall accident claims, the general rule is that you may not obtain further compensation from the at-fault party once you’ve accepted a settlement from insurance.
Many victims of slip and fall accidents rush to file an insurance claim. Unfortunately, some insurance companies take advantage of the situation by tabling a low settlement offer, which won’t cover all the victim’s injury-related losses.
Sometimes, victims of slip and fall accidents get infections after surgery, leading to various complications. Subsequent complications require more surgery and treatment, leading to hefty medical bills.
It is also important to note that people respond differently to physical injuries— some people heal quickly, while others take much longer to heal. An experienced slip and fall attorney advises clients to obtain maximum medical improvement before accepting a settlement offer.
Maximum medical improvement (MMI) occurs when an injured victim has improved as much as possible. When someone attains MMI, the healing process stagnates. Obtaining an MMI helps an attorney anticipate future medical expenses in consultation with a doctor.
Waiting until you obtain maximum medical improvement also helps an attorney calculate any loss of earning capacity.
When a property owner’s negligence causes injuries to occur, they may be held liable, and victims may be able to recover financial compensation. In order to make a successful slip and fall claim in New York State, you must prove:
In New York State, you can be found partially liable for your slip and fall accident. If you are found partially liable, you can still collect compensation for your injuries. Your contribution to the accident will be weighed against the property owner’s negligence when determining how much compensation can be recovered. At The Barnes Firm, our team of Buffalo slip and fall attorneys will work hard to protect you against property owner’s attempting to shift the blame onto you. We will investigate all circumstances surrounding the accident to ensure liable parties are held responsible and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Depending on how your accident occurred, slip and fall injuries can range from bruising to lifelong care. Our team of Buffalo slip and fall lawyers have successfully recovered compensation for slip and fall accident victims with the following injuries:
Our attorneys are equipped with the skills and knowledge to defend your case regardless of the severity of your slip and fall injuries. Call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 to find out what your case is worth.
The compensation you can collect after a slip and fall accident will depend on the severity of the accident and your injuries. After investigating the circumstances surrounding your accident and determining liability, our team of slip and fall accident attorneys may be able to help you recover financial compensation for the following damages:
From the first phone conversation through to the final settlement, our team of Buffalo slip and fall lawyers will work hard for you every step of the way. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation – it could be the best call you make.
The most important thing you can do following a slip and fall accident is gather evidence. The safety hazard that caused your accident may be gone or fixed soon after your accident so it’s important to act quickly. If you are injured in a slip and fall accident, it’s important to take these steps:
At The Barnes Firm, our team of Buffalo slip and fall accident lawyers have decades of experience advocating on behalf of accident victims to help them get the best result possible. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation. Our attorneys are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have regarding your accident.
In a slip and fall accident, proving negligence involves demonstrating that the property owner acted recklessly, resulting in your injuries.
However, you may need to gather evidence to demonstrate the following elements of negligence:
Since property owners have a duty of care to guests on their property, victims of slip and fall accidents must prove that a dangerous condition existed. For instance, a victim can demonstrate that the owner of a hotel installed slippery floors which exposed hotel guests to slip and fall accidents.
You could also prove that a school owner failed to install appropriate handrails on stairs, exposing children to accidents.
You can add weight to the slip and fall case by demonstrating that a property owner failed to fix a hazard that existed on the property. While a property owner may have mistakenly installed slippery tiles, their failure to make adjustments provides a basis for a slip and fall claim.
If you were unable to document the scene of the accident, an attorney can help you compile other sources of evidence, including:
Victims of slip-and-fall accidents should focus their energy on recovery instead of pursuing the at-fault party. Consider retaining a slip-and-fall attorney who can use their experience to gather compelling evidence on your behalf.
Understanding what caused an injury is crucial in proving negligence on the part of the property owner. An attorney can hire an independent investigator who can unearth the root cause of an injury.
Possible causes of slip and fall accidents include:
Victims of slip and fall accidents are entitled to a fair settlement to compensate for damages and injuries. Those who don’t know the value of their claims are likely to fall prey to insurers who prefer to minimize their payouts.
An experienced slip-and-fall attorney will estimate the value of your losses based on medical expenses, lost productivity, and the psychological impact an injury has on you.
The estimated loss should also be supported by evidence highlighting the importance of an attorney who may consult an expert to demonstrate the seriousness of an injury.
Most victims of slip and fall accidents obtain compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance provider. Even so, an insurer is always quick to table a settlement offer, which can pressure you to accept an amount that doesn’t cover your losses.
A slip-and-fall attorney can provide legal support and guidance during negotiations. First, they can evaluate the offer against your injury-related losses. Lastly, an attorney can table facts and evidence to negotiate a higher settlement offer.
If you can’t agree on a settlement with an insurance company, you may need to litigate the dispute in court. Similarly, if the insurance limit doesn’t cover injury-related losses, you can file a lawsuit to recover the damages from the assets of the at-fault party.
Although you’re entitled to compensation under personal injury law, you must file an insurance claim to protect your rights.
Here are crucial steps in protecting your rights:
Prioritize urgent medical attention after sustaining an injury, such as a slip and fall accident. You may visit a primary healthcare provider or an emergency room. While symptoms of most conditions do not appear instantly, early diagnosis prevents complications. More importantly, you’ll obtain medical records to prove your claim.
Make someone in authority aware of the accident and your injuries. Most businesses have a procedure for reporting accidents, so follow the required steps.
While it is possible to file a slip-and-fall claim independently, working with a personal injury attorney enhances your chances of obtaining a fair settlement amount.
You may be entitled to compensation if you’ve sustained an injury due to the property owner’s negligence. Even so, the New York statute of limitations requires victims of slip and fall accidents to initiate premises liability claims within three years.
The statute of limitations in New York State for personal injury and premises liability is three years. This means you have three years from the date of your accident or the date your injuries were discovered to file a claim. If your accident occurred on public property such as a municipal sidewalk or public park, you must file a claim within 90 days of the accident.
To make sure you do not miss any deadlines, it’s wise to call The Barnes Firm immediately after your accident occurs. We will put one of our best Buffalo slip and fall accident lawyers on your case, and help you get the best result possible. Call us today at (800) 800-0000.
After a slip and fall accident, don’t take on the insurance company alone. Instead, call The Barnes Firm and get a skilled Buffalo slip and fall attorney on your side. Our attorneys are available 24/7 to help you get started filing your accident claim.
Call (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation – it could be the best call you make.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, construction accident, or have suffered another type of personal injury contact our team today.
Free Case Evaluation or call us: (800) 800-0000Most people have never needed a lawyer when they find themselves injured and in need of legal advice. We hear the following questions from many of our clients. We hope the answers help clarify your options and considerations.
If you experience a slip and fall accident in New York, prioritize your well-being by seeking immediate medical attention. Document the scene, gather evidence, and take photos if possible. Report the incident to the property owner or manager, ensuring it’s documented. Obtain contact information from any witnesses. Preserve any clothing or footwear involved. Refrain from making recorded statements to insurance companies without legal advice.
Read more about: What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident
A slip and fall accident occurs when an individual loses balance or traction and falls on another person’s property. These incidents often happen due to hazardous conditions like wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poorly maintained walkways. Slip and fall accidents can result in injuries ranging from minor scrapes and bruises to more severe harm like fractures or head injuries.
Property owners or occupiers have a duty to maintain safe premises, and if negligence contributes to the accident, the injured party may have grounds to seek compensation for medical expenses and other damages through a personal injury claim.
In New York, liability in a slip and fall accident depends on the property owner’s negligence. If the owner failed to maintain a safe environment, address hazards promptly, or provide adequate warnings, they may be held responsible for injuries sustained. However, the injured party’s conduct is also considered. New York follows a comparative negligence system, meaning if the injured person’s actions contributed to the accident, their compensation may be reduced.
Slip and fall settlements for injuries without surgery depend on various factors, including the severity of injuries, medical expenses, and the impact on the individual’s life. Common non-surgical injuries like sprains or contusions may result in settlements covering medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Settlement amounts vary widely, and consulting with a slip and fall attorney is essential for an accurate assessment of potential compensation. Their experience helps navigate negotiations with insurance companies and ensures the injured party receives fair and just compensation for the damages incurred in the slip and fall incident.
Read more about: Slip and Fall Settlements Without Surgery
Slip and fall settlements for injuries requiring surgery tend to be more substantial, encompassing medical expenses, surgical costs, rehabilitation, lost wages, and long-term impacts on quality of life. The severity and permanence of the injury significantly influence settlement amounts. Individuals who undergo surgery may be eligible for compensation that reflects both economic and non-economic damages, including pain and suffering.
Consulting with a skilled attorney is crucial in these cases to ensure comprehensive evaluation of the damages incurred and effective negotiation for a settlement that adequately addresses the significant consequences of injuries necessitating surgical intervention.
Read more about: Slip and Fall Settlements With Surgery
In New York, slip and fall settlements are calculated based on various factors, including the extent of injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and the degree of liability. Comparative negligence may also play a role, reducing the settlement if the injured party is deemed partially responsible. Thorough documentation of the incident, evidence of negligence, and the representation of an injury attorney are critical in determining a fair settlement.
New York’s legal landscape requires navigating complexities, making professional guidance essential to secure a settlement that appropriately compensates for the damages incurred in a slip and fall accident.
The duration of slip and fall settlements in New York varies based on factors like the complexity of the case, negotiations with insurance companies, and potential legal proceedings. While some cases may reach a settlement within a few months through negotiation, others may require litigation and extend the process to a year or more. The thoroughness of documentation, legal strategies employed, and cooperation between parties influence the timeline.
A slip and fall incident report typically includes details about the accident, such as the date, time, and location. It outlines the circumstances leading to the fall, noting any hazards like wet floors or uneven surfaces. Witness statements, if available, may be included, along with the injured party’s account. Photographs of the scene and any relevant conditions are often attached. The report may also capture the injured person’s immediate actions and any communication with property owners or management. A thorough and well-documented incident report is crucial for supporting a personal injury claim.
The average settlement for a slip and fall knee injury varies widely, as it depends on factors like the severity of the injury, medical expenses, and the impact on the individual’s life. Settlements may cover medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. While some settlements are modest, others can be substantial, particularly if the knee injury leads to long-term impairment.
Consulting with a slip and fall attorney is crucial for accurately assessing the specific details of the case and pursuing a settlement that adequately compensates for the damages incurred.
Getting our clients the best results possible.
or call us at
(800) 800-0000
"I was hit by someone that wasn't paying attention and ran the stop sign. After being checked out at the hospital I didn't know where to turn. I remembering the jingle an...
"Great Lawyers. Derek is awesome!"
"My lawyer was Mike Cooper, he helped me with my lawsuit when I broke my ankle. He was extremely helpful and attentive and helped me in my time of need. I cannot thank hi...
"My experience with The Barnes Firm was really great. My lawyer was Michael Cooper he answered all my questions and concerns very professional and quick response time. Wh...
"My lawyer was Derek Roller and he helped so much! Very on top of everything and always kept me informed as to what was going on! I couldn’t recommend someone better!"
"Derek Roller attorney with the Barnes Firm did an outstanding job representing me in a vehicle accident. I was kept informed and followed up on consistently throughout t...
"My personal injury lawyer was Derek Roller and they helped me with my personal injury car accident lawsuit. I can’t thank them enough! They did everything in a timely ...
"I highly recommend The Barnes Firm, with a special mention to Michael J. Cooper, Esq. for anyone seeking a personal injury lawyer. Their communication was clear, and the...
"My personal injury lawyer was Matthew Louisos and he helped me with my auto lawsuit. I can't thank him enough! He made everything as easy as possible."
"Derek roller was very professional, down to earth, and tells it to you straight. He said he thinks he can help me and even if he can’t, he’s going to try. I didn’t...
"I was represented by Phil Maiarana, when the insurance company made an offer, Phil did an excellent job and worked to get the original offer doubled! Outstanding custome...
"My personal injury lawyer was Derek Roller and he helped me with my motor vehicle accident/personal injury lawsuit. I felt heard, any documents that needed to be submitt...
"My personal injury lawyer was Derek Roller, and he helped me with my motor vehicle accident/personal injury lawsuit. I felt heard, and any documents that needed to be su...
"Raeanne Over and Matt Louisos have been absolutely wonderful to work with. He has helped turn an insurance nightmare into something breathable. I hope to never have to b...
"Highly Recommend this law firm especially Matt Louisos. Handled my case with no issues and got 4X the insurance offer."
"My attorney, Michael Cooper, settled my lawsuit in a timely manner and was very professional. I was very pleased working with him and his staff. I have confidence in his...
"I dealt with lawyer Derek Roller...he has been amazing thru this whole experience. Mr. Roller has always been so supportive and encouraging to stay positive. It's becaus...
"I had an excellent experience with The Barnes Firm. Leah Novo and Phil Maiarana were incredibly supportive and professional throughout my entire case. Phil demonstrated ...
"My personal injury lawyer was Murrett, John C., Jr and they helped me with my car accident case lawsuit. I can’t thank them enough! I also would like to take the time ...
"I was in a car accident and called The Barnes Firm for help. My attorney, Derek Roller, encouraged me to seek medical attention immediately when he realized I was in a l...
"My attorney Derek Roller represented me in my slip and fall case when I broke my right foot in 2021 after slipping and falling on a wet office floor. It was very painful...
"After my auto accident as I was hit from behind, I started my case with Rich Barnes. After the tragic accident of Rich’s Daughter and Brother, Rich turned my case over...
"My personal in attorney was Michael Cooper. He and his staff were wonderful to work with and we are happy with the outcome. I'd recommend Michael and The Barnes Firm to ...
"My personal Injury Lawyer at The Barnes Firm, Derek Roller helped me get the most from my case. He kept great communication with me and always had an answer to my questi...
"My lawyer way Matt Louisos. He is an amazing lawyer. He addressed my concerns about my injury case. He also kept me informed on everything that was going on with my case...
"My personal injury lawyer was Mike Cooper and he helped me with my automobile accident lawsuit. I can’t thank them enough!"
"Louisos, Matthew A., Esq. was an outstanding lawyer who truly made a difference in my case. He maintained excellent communication through emails and phone calls, always ...
"Michael Cooper and his team went above and beyond to assist me and get me to the end result with nothing but kindness and compassion. I highly recommend The Barnes Firm ...
"I was injured in a car accident while on vacation out of state. I called the Barnes Firm and attorney Mike Cooper took care of everything. Mike Cooper and his staff at t...
"My Lawyer John C Murrett exhibited excellent communication skills, keeping me informed at every stage of the process and promptly addressing any concerns or inquiries I ...
"I have had great experience with the firm. Very professional and caring people. Great results thanks to Phil Maiarana"
"My personal injury lawyer was Derek Roller and he helped me with my no fault lawsuit. I can't thank him enough!"
"I am very happy with the outcome of the service I received from The Barnes Firm. My lawyer Matt gave my case his all. It is very hard to fight a a lawsuit for a fall, le...
"I’m more than satisfied with the services that The Barnes firm has provided. My lawyer, Micheal J. Cooper was amazing. I highly recommend this law firm to everyone."
"My personal injury lawyer was Robert Schreck and they helped me with my personal injury lawsuit related to an automobile accident. I appreciated them taking care of all ...
"In 2024 I fell down stairs in my apartment, and broke my right fibula due to a faulty railing. I immediately contacted The Barnes Firm in Buffalo NY. I was assigned Mr. ...
"During one of the most difficult times in my life, Derek at The Barnes firm and his team made things possible. I was with a different law firm prior to; however, I was d...
"I would definitely recommend Matt Louisos as a lawyer. Before I found Matt, I talked to another big name Law Firm and they said that they couldn’t help me. Once I reac...
"My personal injury lawyer was John C. Murrett and they helped me with my injury lawsuit. I can’t thank them enough!"
"Attorney Matt Louisos at The Barnes Firm is a staunch advocate for victims in their most vulnerable times. Matt and his team navigated my case amongst multiple insurance...
"Great firm that will fight for you. They were very helpful with my case, any questions I had, and always responded fast. I highly recommend The Barnes Firm, as they get ...
"Wanted to let people know Derek J. Roller, Esq. of The Barnes Firm level of professionalism is unparalleled, and I am thankful for his commitment. Thank you again, Mark"
"My attorney was Derek Roller. He handled everything professionally and efficiently and I appreciate everything at The Barnes Firm has done for me. They are great when it...
"Philip & his assistant Leah were very helpful. The Barnes Firm, assisted me with my questions and concerns. Most importantly they helped me get the medical attention...
"My personal injury lawyer was Mr. Robert Schreck. I was involved in a MVA and Mr. Schreck was able to get me a settlement higher than the insurance company initially off...
"The Barnes Firm has helped me handle the death of my child in a auto accident and made it less painful for me. Thank you Michael Cooper! I always get paid what I'm promi...
"I highly recommend The Barnes Firm and team of attorneys. Above and beyond all expectations. If you want a lawyer and a law firm that will actually care about you, and g...
"Derek Roller did an amazing job settling our case 10/10 would recommend"
"Michael Cooper is an outstanding injury attorney. He communicates with you from beginning to end about how things are going with your case and if you have any concerns a...
"I went thru The Barnes Firm for an automobile accident and they've been nothing but attentive and supportive the whole way they my case. I can't thank them enough for wh...
"My experience has been great. Phil is great and very informative Always on top of things and checks in monthly via text. This experience has been worry free. I’ve also...
"The Barnes Firm was very helpful and I recommend them to anyone who's been in an accident and if I could rank them I would give them a 10 out of 10! Thank you all so muc...
"I called after my accident and attorney Michael Cooper has been there every step of the way. I recommend giving him a call after an accident."
"If your looking for a honest lawyer who gets the job done, Phil Maiarana is your guy. He got me what I asked for & more! Thank you Phil"
"My experience with The Barnes Firm was great and my lawyer, Philip J. Maiarana, was very knowledgeable and ensured that I got full coverage in terms of my settlements."
"My attorney was John C Murrett Jr, Esq. He and his assistant Nichole were most helpful and professional in the handling of my personal injury suit. The suit developed fr...
"Michael Cooper was very responsive and I am very happy with the outcome."
"Matt Louisos was amazing. When I was told by others that nobody could do anything for me, Matt and his team at The Barnes Firm helped me with everything I needed and mad...
"My injury attorney, Derek Roller, was great to work with. He kept me updated along each step of the way, from the moment I contacted The Barnes Firm for a consult, throu...
"Jack and Nichole were a great team. She guided me through every step of my medical and treatment. Jack stayed in constant contact with me keeping me updated on everythin...
"My Attorney is Philip J Maiarana & his Paralegal is Leah Novo. They are very professional & thorough. Everything was explained & was kept updated through tex...
"Phil at the Barnes Firm is the utmost professional. He is very knowledgeable and proficient. When you contact him with a question or concern he gets back to you immediat...
"My personal injury lawyer was Derek Roller and he helped me with my Car Accident lawsuit. I can’t thank him enough! He was very nice and concern for my well being. He ...
"My attorney, Matt Louisos with The Barnes Firm, did an amazing job! Matt was very personable, easy to speak with and kept me informed consistently throughout the process...
"They were very attentive to my needs, and willing to explain the process and steps to me. They took the time to hear me and my concerns and help to ease my nerves. Alway...
"My personal injury Lawyer was Michael Cooper with the Barnes Firm Buffalo, NY at the Grider street location. I have never been treated more respectfully in my entire lif...
"My lawyer was Derek J. Roller, that helped with my automobile accident lawsuit. I could tell he took this case seriously and always gave me updates with what was happeni...
"I'm so glad that I used The Barnes Firm because they went above and beyond with the things that they had to do for me in a very quick and informative way. I can't say en...
"No Fault case where my car insurance would not pay for injuries sustained. My car was rear ended & other driver took off. Injuries were not life threatening, but end...
"Thank you Matt Louisos and his team at The Barnes Firm! You were easy to work with and always there when I need you. I would recommend you to anyone!"
"My lawyer Michael Cooper is amazing, he helped me with everything, great doctors, great physical therapy a wonderful chiropractor, I couldn’t’ of asked for a better ...
"Matt Louisos and his team were very easy to talk to and they worked very hard in getting me the maximum amount of money that I deserved due to my MVA. Thank you all very...
"Philip J Maiarana Esq. helped me with my injury case! He always kept me up to date on everything was very nice and I would definitely recommend him! Thank you so much!!"
We are always available to discuss your case. Give us a call at (800) 800-0000.
Fill out our form and we will contact you shortly to discuss your case
Our attorneys will come to your home, office or hospital at your convenience.
We are available anytime, including after hours and
weekends.
420 Lexington Avenue
Suite #2140
New York, NY 10170
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
600 Old Country Road
Suite #425
Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
500 Pearl Street
Suite #700
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
451 Grider Street
Buffalo, NY 14215
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
28 East Main Street
Suite #600
Rochester, NY 14614
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
633 West 5th Street
Suite #1750
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050
555 12th Street
Suite #1470
Oakland, CA 94607
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050
655 W. Broadway
Suite #940
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050
