A+ rating on Better Business Bureau•Google reviews: 5.0•Martindale Hubbell Client Rating: 5.0•Lawyers.com Client Rating: 5.0•Avvo Client Rating: 5.0•Facebook Rating 5.0•Best Dog Bite Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Car Accident Lawyers – Middletown, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•A+ rating on Better Business Bureau•Google reviews: 5.0•Martindale Hubbell Client Rating: 5.0•Lawyers.com Client Rating: 5.0•Avvo Client Rating: 5.0•Facebook Rating 5.0•Best Dog Bite Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Car Accident Lawyers – Middletown, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)

Slip and Fall Lawyer in Floral Park

Floral Park Slip and Fall

Personal Injury — Slip and Fall Claims

At The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC in Floral Park, we represent people injured in slip and fall incidents throughout Nassau County and nearby communities. Slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries that require medical care, time away from work, and long recovery periods, and pursuing a claim can be necessary to secure compensation for medical bills and lost income. Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. and our team assist clients by investigating the scene, collecting evidence, and communicating with property owners and insurers to protect clients’ rights. If you were hurt on another party’s property, call (845) 986-2777 to discuss your situation and next steps.

When a fall happens, immediate steps matter for both health and any future claim. Our office helps clients document the scene with photographs, gather witness statements, and obtain incident reports or maintenance records that can show how the fall occurred. We also coordinate with medical providers to ensure injuries are properly evaluated and recorded, which helps show the connection between the accident and treatment. Acting quickly preserves evidence while memories remain fresh and creates a clearer record for insurance discussions or court filings if a lawsuit becomes necessary, so contacting our Floral Park office soon after an incident is advisable.

Why Acting Quickly Helps Your Case

Prompt action after a slip and fall can significantly affect the outcome of a claim. Early documentation of the scene, quick medical evaluation, and timely collection of witness contact information preserve critical facts that can otherwise be lost. Establishing a clear chain of evidence and contemporaneous treatment records strengthens the link between the fall and resulting injuries, which is essential when dealing with insurance adjusters or in court. Taking deliberate steps early on reduces disputes over fault, supports accurate damage assessments, and increases the likelihood of a prompt and fair resolution that addresses medical costs, lost income, and other impacts of the injury.

About The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC and Allan J. Ahearne, Jr.

The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC serves clients across the Hudson Valley and Long Island with a focus on personal injury matters, including slip and fall claims in Floral Park and Nassau County. Attorney Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. guides each case with attention to detail, clear communication, and an emphasis on preserving evidence and documenting injuries. Our approach emphasizes practical solutions, whether negotiating with insurers or preparing for litigation when needed, and our team works to keep clients informed at every stage. Prospective clients can reach our office at (845) 986-2777 to arrange a consultation and discuss the specific facts of their fall incident.

Understanding Slip and Fall Claims in New York

Slip and fall matters are typically evaluated under premises liability principles, which look at whether the property owner or manager had a responsibility to maintain safe conditions and failed to do so. A successful claim usually requires showing that the owner created or knew of a hazardous condition, that they did not take reasonable steps to remedy it, and that this failure caused the fall and resulting injuries. Investigations often involve examining surveillance, maintenance logs, inspection schedules, and any prior incident reports, and timely collection of those materials helps establish the necessary facts to support a claim or defense against one.

New York follows a comparative fault framework, which means a court or jury may reduce recoverable compensation to reflect any fault attributed to the person who fell. It is also important to be mindful of procedural timelines, such as the three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New York, which limits how long you have to file a lawsuit after the accident. Preserving medical records, documenting the crash site, and obtaining witness information early helps demonstrate the seriousness of the injuries and the relationship between the fall and the treatment received, which supports both settlement negotiations and litigation if necessary.

Need More Information?

Key Terms and Glossary for Slip and Fall Cases

Premises Liability

Premises liability is the legal concept that property owners, managers, or occupiers may be responsible for injuries that occur on their property when they fail to maintain reasonably safe conditions. For slip and fall matters, that can include failure to clean spills, failure to repair uneven flooring or sidewalks, poor lighting, or inadequate warning signs. Liability depends on the specific relationship between the injured person and the property owner, the foreseeability of harm, the owner’s knowledge of the dangerous condition, and whether reasonable steps were taken to prevent accidents. Each situation is fact-specific, and documentation from the scene helps clarify responsibility.

Comparative Negligence

Comparative negligence is a legal rule that assigns a percentage of fault to each party involved in an accident and reduces the injured person’s recovery by their percentage of fault. In New York, a plaintiff can recover damages even if they share some fault, but any compensation awarded will be decreased to reflect the plaintiff’s portion of responsibility. For example, if a jury finds 20 percent of fault on the injured person and awards damages, the final recovery is reduced by that 20 percent. Understanding comparative negligence is important when evaluating settlement offers or preparing for trial, because it affects the amount that can be recovered.

Duty of Care

Duty of care refers to the legal obligation property owners and occupiers have to keep their premises in reasonably safe condition and to warn visitors about known hazards. The scope of that duty varies depending on factors such as the visitor’s status, whether they are a business invitee, licensee, or trespasser, and the foreseeability of harm from a particular condition. Establishing that a property owner owed a duty of care is a fundamental step in pursuing a slip and fall claim, and evidence like maintenance records, inspection logs, and incident histories can illustrate whether the owner met or breached that obligation.

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations sets the deadline for filing a lawsuit, and for most personal injury claims in New York, including slip and fall cases, that deadline is typically three years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can bar a legal claim even if the injury and fault are clear, so it is important to evaluate potential claims promptly. Certain circumstances can affect the deadline, such as claims against a government entity, which may require additional notice steps, or situations involving minors, where the clock may be tolled. Early investigation helps ensure timetables are met and preserves the right to seek compensation.

PRO TIPS

Document the Scene

After a fall, take clear photographs of the area where the incident occurred, capturing the exact spot, surrounding conditions, and any relevant signage or obstacles, and collect contact information from any witnesses who saw what happened. Note the time, weather, lighting, footwear, and how the fall occurred, and retain any clothing or shoes worn at the time, because those details can be important when reconstructing the incident and establishing liability. Prompt documentation preserves perishable evidence and provides a factual record that supports insurance claims or litigation planning as your case moves forward.

Seek Prompt Medical Care

Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical evaluation right away so that injuries are diagnosed and documented, which helps link the fall to subsequent treatment and supports claims for medical expenses and pain and suffering. Follow through with recommended tests and follow-up appointments, and keep copies of all records, bills, and communications with providers because they form the backbone of any damage claim. Early and consistent medical care also demonstrates the severity of injuries to insurers and the court, and it aids recovery planning while preserving important documentation for your case.

Preserve Evidence and Records

Keep any receipts, incident reports, repair notices, or correspondence related to the fall, and request copies of maintenance logs or surveillance footage as soon as possible because those materials can be lost or overwritten. Maintain a written record of how the injury has affected daily life, work activities, and household responsibilities, including dates and specifics, as that narrative supports claims for lost income and non-economic damages. Consistent preservation of documents and records creates a clear factual story that aids settlement discussions and supports a well-prepared legal strategy if formal litigation becomes necessary.

Comparing Legal Approaches for Slip and Fall Matters

When a Complete Legal Response Is Advisable:

Serious or Long-Term Injuries

When a slip and fall results in significant injuries that require ongoing medical care, surgery, or long-term rehabilitation, a thorough legal approach is often necessary to secure full compensation for future medical costs and lost earning capacity and to properly value non-economic harms like pain and diminished quality of life. Complex medical records and expert medical opinions may be needed to establish prognosis and lifetime care needs, and detailed economic analysis may be required to quantify ongoing financial losses. A comprehensive response ensures these elements are investigated, documented, and presented effectively to insurers or a court.

Complex Liability Scenarios

If multiple parties may share responsibility for a hazardous condition, such as contractors, landlords, management companies, or third-party vendors, a more complete legal strategy is often necessary to identify every responsible entity and pursue appropriate claims against each. Complex liability situations can require thorough discovery, subpoenas for records, and coordination among various stakeholders to determine fault and apportion responsibility accurately. Pursuing all potentially liable parties helps maximize recovery options and ensures that compensation reflects the full extent of the harm caused by the accident.

When a Limited Approach May Be Enough:

Minor Injuries With Clear Fault

For injuries that are relatively minor, with clear evidence that the property owner was at fault and damages are limited to small medical bills or short recovery time, a focused approach that emphasizes prompt documentation and negotiation with the insurer can resolve matters efficiently. In these cases, obtaining medical records, photographs, and a short witness statement can be sufficient to secure a fair settlement without extended litigation. A limited approach reduces time and expense when the facts are straightforward and the compensation sought is commensurate with the documented losses.

Small Claims and Quick Resolution

When the likely recovery falls within small-claims thresholds or where the parties prefer a quick resolution, pursuing a streamlined negotiation strategy focused on documented out-of-pocket costs and brief medical care may be appropriate. Many matters of modest value resolve through direct negotiations with insurers or informal mediation when liability and damages are clear. Employing a limited approach conserves resources while still protecting the injured person’s interests, though it requires careful assessment to ensure the proposed settlement fully addresses short-term losses and any lingering effects.

Common Slip and Fall Situations in Floral Park

Wet or Slippery Floors

Stores, restaurants, and shared residential spaces can create hazardous conditions when spills, tracked-in moisture, or recent mopping leave floors slick and untreated, and failure to post warnings or promptly clean the area increases the risk of a fall and potential liability. Documenting the wet condition with photographs, identifying employees or staff who were present, and obtaining maintenance or cleaning logs can help show that the hazard existed long enough that the owner should have taken steps to prevent harm and supports a claim for damages tied to any resulting injuries.

Uneven Walkways and Sidewalk Hazards

Cracked sidewalks, raised curbs, broken pavement, and uneven thresholds between interior floors are frequent causes of falls in both public and private locations, and property owners may be responsible for repairs and warnings if they knew or should have known about the condition. Collecting measurements, noting prior complaints or repair requests, and identifying municipal records or photos that show long-standing defects can be important when assessing liability for an injury that occurred because of these hazards.

Poor Lighting and Obstructions

Insufficient lighting, uncovered cords, merchandise blocking aisles, or temporary obstructions that are not marked can create hidden hazards that lead to falls, particularly in parking lots and store interiors. Demonstrating a pattern of inadequate maintenance, absent warnings, or prior incidents in the same area helps establish that the condition was foreseeable and should have been corrected to prevent injuries.

Floral Park Slip and Fall Attorney

Why Choose The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC

Clients choose The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC for personalized attention, clear communication, and a local perspective on slip and fall claims in Floral Park and Nassau County. Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. focuses on building a complete record of how the accident happened and what injuries resulted, working with treating providers and witnesses to document treatment needs, lost time from work, and daily activity limitations. Our office keeps clients informed of options and likely timelines while pursuing fair compensation through insurer negotiations or litigation when a fair resolution cannot be reached, and we are available by phone at (845) 986-2777 to discuss your case.

We handle slip and fall matters with an understanding of local court procedures and insurance practices that affect Floral Park claims, and we emphasize practical, client-focused solutions that match each person’s needs. We explain potential outcomes, the likely steps involved in pursuing a claim, and fee arrangements so clients can make informed decisions without surprises. If you choose to move forward, we work to preserve evidence, evaluate the total impact of your injuries, and pursue a resolution that accounts for medical costs, lost income, and the ways an injury has affected daily life.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

People Also Search For

Floral Park slip and fall attorney

Nassau County slip and fall lawyer

Floral Park premises liability

personal injury Floral Park

slip and fall claim New York

sidewalk injury Floral Park

wet floor accident Nassau County

Ahearne Law Firm slip and fall

FAQS

What should I do immediately after a slip and fall in Floral Park?

First prioritize your health and safety by seeking medical attention as soon as possible, even if injuries seem minor at first, because some symptoms can appear hours or days later and medical records will document the connection between the fall and treatment. After addressing urgent medical needs, take photographs of the scene and any hazardous condition, obtain contact information from witnesses, and ask for a copy of any incident or accident report maintained by the property where the fall occurred; prompt documentation preserves evidence and supports later claims. Next, notify your medical providers about how the injury occurred and follow their recommendations, keep copies of all bills and records, and avoid giving recorded statements to insurers without legal advice. Contacting our office early allows us to advise you on steps to preserve surveillance footage and maintenance logs and to begin collecting evidence that may otherwise be lost, and we can explain your options for pursuing compensation while you focus on recovery.

Who can be held responsible for a slip and fall injury?

Potentially responsible parties can include property owners, managers, tenants, contractors, or maintenance companies depending on who controlled or maintained the area where the fall occurred and who had notice of the dangerous condition. Liability turns on whether the responsible party had a duty to maintain safe premises and whether they breached that duty by failing to correct or warn about a hazardous condition, and each case requires careful factual investigation of ownership, control, and maintenance responsibilities. In some situations, multiple entities share responsibility, and pursuing claims against all relevant parties can be necessary to obtain full compensation. Our office reviews leases, service contracts, and maintenance records to identify each party that may bear responsibility and to determine the best path for presenting claims to insurers or in court when appropriate.

How long do I have to file a slip and fall lawsuit in New York?

For most personal injury cases in New York, including slip and fall claims, the statute of limitations is typically three years from the date of the accident, and failing to file within that period can bar your right to pursue a lawsuit. Certain claims against government entities or specific circumstances may require shorter notice periods or additional pre-suit steps, so prompt evaluation is important to avoid losing legal rights. Given these timelines, it is advisable to consult an attorney early to ensure that any necessary filings or notice requirements are met and to begin collecting time-sensitive evidence such as surveillance video, witness statements, and maintenance logs that could be critical to proving your claim if litigation becomes necessary.

What types of damages can I recover after a fall?

Damages in a slip and fall claim can include compensation for past and future medical expenses, lost wages and earning capacity, pain and suffering, and costs associated with rehabilitation and assistive devices. The monetary value assigned to non-economic harms like discomfort and diminished quality of life depends on the severity of injuries, the impact on daily activities, and the supporting medical documentation that links treatment to the accident. Economic damages require careful documentation of medical bills, receipts, and payroll records, while non-economic damages often require a narrative of how injuries affect daily living and work. Gathering thorough records and persuasive evidence helps ensure damages are fully considered during settlement negotiations or trial preparations.

How does comparative negligence affect my claim?

Comparative negligence means that if a jury or insurer assigns some percentage of fault to the person who fell, any award will be reduced by that percentage, so a finding that you were 20 percent at fault would reduce recovery by 20 percent. New York allows a plaintiff to recover even if they share some fault, but the final award reflects the fault allocation, so demonstrating that you took reasonable care is important to maximize a recovery. Because recoverable compensation is affected by fault allocation, careful documentation and a clear factual presentation aimed at minimizing any finding of contributory fault are important. Gathering witness statements, photographs, and detailed accounts of the conditions that caused the fall helps counter claims that the injured person’s actions were a significant cause of the accident.

Should I speak with the property owner’s insurance company?

You should be cautious about speaking with the property owner’s insurer without legal guidance because insurer representatives often record statements and may focus on minimizing their liability, which can complicate later negotiations. Providing basic factual information to first responders or to medical providers is normal, but avoid offering detailed or recorded statements to adjusters until you understand your rights and the full extent of your injuries, as early remarks can be used to challenge the severity or cause of your injuries later. If you do speak with an insurer, keep the conversation factual and brief, avoid admitting fault or downplaying symptoms, and consider consulting our office beforehand so we can advise on how to handle adjuster contacts. We can communicate with insurers on your behalf to protect your interests and ensure that any settlement discussions reflect the full scope of your losses.

What evidence is most important in a slip and fall case?

Important evidence in a slip and fall case includes photographs of the hazard and the surrounding area, surveillance footage if available, witness contact information and statements, incident and maintenance reports, and records showing prior complaints or repairs. Medical records and treatment notes that document injuries and link care to the fall are central to proving damages and demonstrating causation between the accident and the harm suffered. Additionally, pay stubs, employer statements about missed work, and receipts for out-of-pocket expenses strengthen claims for economic losses. Preserving physical evidence such as clothing or shoes worn during the incident and obtaining timely preservation requests for surveillance footage can be critical since some evidence is time-sensitive and may be altered or lost without prompt action.

Can I settle my slip and fall case without going to court?

Yes, many slip and fall claims settle without going to court, often through negotiations with the property owner’s insurance carrier or via mediation, and settlements can provide faster resolution and certainty without the time and expense of trial. A fair settlement requires a clear understanding of the total value of damages, including future medical needs and long-term impacts, so thorough documentation and realistic valuation are essential before accepting any offer. However, if negotiations fail to produce a fair resolution, preparing for litigation may be necessary to obtain full compensation, and the threat of filing a lawsuit can sometimes prompt insurers to offer more reasonable settlements. Our office will assess settlement proposals and advise whether an offer appropriately addresses your injuries and losses or whether additional steps are warranted.

How long will it take to resolve my slip and fall claim?

The timeline for resolving a slip and fall claim varies widely depending on the complexity of the injuries, the clarity of liability, whether multiple parties are involved, and the willingness of insurers to negotiate. Simple claims with clear liability and limited damages may resolve within a few months, while cases involving serious injuries, disputed fault, or complex damages can take a year or more and sometimes longer if litigation is required. Factors such as the need for expert medical opinions, the availability of surveillance footage, and the court schedule also affect timing. We provide clients with realistic expectations based on the facts of their case and work to move matters forward efficiently while ensuring that any resolution sufficiently compensates for medical care, lost income, and non-economic harms.

How do I schedule a consultation with The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC?

To schedule a consultation with The Ahearne Law Firm PLLC, you can call our office at (845) 986-2777 to arrange a convenient time to discuss the facts of your fall and the options available in your case, or you may request an initial consultation through our website if that is more convenient. During the first meeting we will review the incident details, any medical treatment received so far, and the available evidence and advise on immediate steps to preserve records and protect your claim. If you decide to proceed, we will explain the fee arrangement and next steps for investigating the incident, collecting necessary documentation, and communicating with insurers. Our goal is to provide clear guidance so you can make informed decisions while focusing on recovery and securing appropriate compensation for injuries and losses.

Personal Injury Services in Floral Park

Explore our injury practice areas

⚖️ All Personal Injury Services