How Long Do You Have to Report a Slip and Fall Accident?

When you’re involved in a slip-and-fall accident, the first instinct may be to ignore that it didn’t happen to avoid embarrassment. You shouldn’t overlook a slip-and-fall accident, even if it is minor.

You may have sustained an injury whose symptoms may appear later.

It is imperative to report the accident to the person in charge or a supervisor at the property. Filing a slip-and-fall accident report ensures documentation of the incident, which protects your right to compensation.

More importantly, filing a timely report enhances your chances of obtaining a fair outcome in an insurance claim or lawsuit.

Consider speaking to a trusted slip and fall attorney who can provide legal support and advice as you pursue compensation for your injuries.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Slip and Fall Claim in NY and CA?

New York

The statute of limitation is when parties involved in a dispute must initiate legal action. In a slip-and-fall accident, the statute of limitations commences from the date of injury.

According to New York State Senate Rule CPLR 214(5), victims of slip-and-fall injuries should initiate a lawsuit within three years from the date of the accident.

California

You have 2 years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. If you didn’t discover the injury right away, you have one year from the date of discovery.

Frequent Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

Extreme Weather Conditions

Extreme weather conditions like rain, snow, hail, or ice increase the likelihood of slip-and-fall accidents. Property owners can minimize slip-and-fall accidents by keeping their parking lots and exterior pavements debris-free.

Uneven Surfaces

Walking on uneven surfaces poses an enhanced risk for risk and fall accidents. Here are a few situations that increase the risk of slip and fall accidents:

• Poorly installed floorboards
• Parking lot potholes
• Torn carpets
• Poorly designed staircases
• Debris littered floors
• Faulty sidewalks

Property owners can minimize slip-and-fall accidents through regular pavement maintenance, removing snow, and using non-skid materials on the floor, where necessary.

Unsafe Ladders and Stairs

Poorly designed or maintained stairs increase the likelihood of slip-and-fall accidents.

Some of the situations that expose people to danger include:

• Debris on the stairs
• Failure to secure a ladder while using it
• Skipping steps while moving down the stairs
• Poorly spaced staircases

An employer can minimize the risk of slip-and-fall accidents by providing safety footwear with adequate grip.

Nursing Home Neglect

Older adults have a reduced sense of balance, which increases the risk of slip-and-fall accidents. If the nursing home staff fails to supervise an ailing patient while walking, they are exposed to a risk of slip and fall accidents.

Schedule a Free Case Evaluation Today

You may endure worsened finances if a slip-and-fall accident causes you to sustain a broken wrist. First, you may have to miss work as you recover from the injury. You’ll also incur hefty medical bills related to medication, doctor visits, and rehabilitation.

You, therefore, deserve representation from an experienced professional like The Barnes Firm, who’ll aggressively fight for your rights.

Contact us online or at (800) 800-0000 for a free case evaluation.

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years
LinkedIn Profile: Richard Barnes