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)

Premises Liability Lawyer in Great Neck Plaza

Local Injury Guidance

Your Guide to Premises Liability

If you were hurt on someone else’s property in Great Neck Plaza, you may have options to seek recovery for your losses. Premises liability covers injuries that arise from unsafe conditions on private or public property, including slip and fall incidents, uneven walkways, inadequate lighting, and poorly maintained stairs. At Ahearne Law Firm PLLC, we help people understand how New York premises liability law applies to their situation and what steps to take after an injury. Contact Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. at (845) 986-2777 to discuss the facts of your case and next steps for moving forward.

Taking prompt action after a premises injury can make a significant difference in preserving your rights and gathering important evidence. Photos of the scene, contact information for witnesses, medical records, and incident reports all support a claim. New York has deadlines and rules that affect how claims proceed, so early consultation helps ensure evidence is preserved and deadlines are met. Our firm is prepared to explain the claims process, help you collect documentation, and pursue an appropriate outcome while keeping you informed at every step of the process.

Why Premises Liability Matters in Great Neck Plaza

Premises liability matters because it holds property owners and managers accountable when unsafe conditions lead to injury. When liability is properly established, injured people may recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses related to the incident. Pursuing a claim also encourages property owners to address hazards, reducing the risk of future injuries. In Great Neck Plaza and Nassau County, documenting the condition that caused the injury and showing how it was a foreseeable risk for visitors or customers are important elements in building a successful claim.

Ahearne Law Firm Serving Great Neck Plaza

Ahearne Law Firm PLLC represents people injured on properties across the Hudson Valley and New York, including Great Neck Plaza and surrounding areas of Nassau County. Attorney Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. focuses on guiding clients through the complexities of premises liability claims, working to protect their rights and pursue fair results. The firm emphasizes clear communication, careful investigation, and practical planning to help clients understand their options and make informed decisions at each stage of a claim. Our team strives to handle the legal details so clients can concentrate on recovery and return to daily life.

Understanding Premises Liability

Premises liability covers legal responsibility when injuries result from dangerous or negligent conditions on property owned or controlled by another party. Liability may arise when a property owner fails to repair hazards, does not warn visitors of known dangers, or allows unsafe conditions to persist. The specific proof required depends on whether the injured person was an invitee, licensee, or trespasser, and on how the law applies in New York. Understanding who owed a duty of care, what that duty required, and how it was breached is central to evaluating whether a viable claim exists.

After a premises injury, practical steps include seeking medical attention, reporting the incident to the property owner or manager, and documenting the scene with photographs and notes while details are fresh. Witness statements and surveillance footage, if available, can be important. New York also applies comparative fault rules that can reduce recoveries if the injured person shares responsibility for the accident. A careful review of medical records, incident reports, and property maintenance practices helps determine the full scope of potential recovery and the best path forward.

Need More Information?

Key Terms and Glossary

Premises Liability

Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility property owners and occupiers have for injuries that occur on their premises due to unsafe conditions or negligent maintenance. The concept covers many scenarios, including slip and fall accidents, trip hazards, inadequate security, and defects in stairs or flooring. Proving a premises liability claim generally requires showing that a dangerous condition existed, the property owner knew or should have known about it, and the condition caused the injury. The injured person must also demonstrate that they suffered harm and incurred damages such as medical costs and lost wages.

Negligence

Negligence is a legal concept that describes a failure to exercise reasonable care under the circumstances, resulting in harm to another person. In premises liability matters, negligence may involve a property owner failing to maintain safe conditions, neglecting necessary repairs, or not warning visitors about known dangers. To establish negligence, an injured person typically must show that a duty of care existed, that the duty was breached, and that the breach directly caused injury and damages. New York courts analyze these elements when deciding whether liability attaches in a given case.

Comparative Fault

Comparative fault is a rule that reduces a recovery when the injured person shares some responsibility for their own harm. Under New York’s comparative fault principles, compensation may be adjusted in proportion to the injured party’s degree of fault. For example, if a jury finds the injured person fifty percent responsible and the total damages are determined, the recoverable amount would be reduced by that percentage. Understanding how comparative fault applies to the facts of a case is important because it affects the potential value of a claim and how parties negotiate settlements.

Duty of Care

A duty of care is the legal obligation to act reasonably to prevent foreseeable harm to others. In premises liability cases, the duty owed varies by the visitor’s status and the nature of the property. For instance, businesses owe a duty to maintain safe conditions for customers and to warn of known hazards. Determining whether a duty existed and how it was breached is a fundamental part of evaluating a claim. Evidence such as maintenance logs, inspection records, and prior complaints can shed light on whether the duty of care was met.

PRO TIPS

Preserve Evidence Immediately

After an injury, preserving evidence can strengthen a claim by showing the condition that caused harm. Take clear photographs of the scene, collect names and contact information of witnesses, and keep original clothing or footwear if they are connected to the incident; these items can help document the circumstances. Keeping a detailed record of medical visits, treatment, and symptom progression supports both the injury narrative and assessments of damages.

Document Your Injuries and Costs

Careful documentation of injuries and related expenses is essential for showing the full impact of an accident. Save medical bills, receipts for medications, records of transportation to appointments, and any lost wage statements from your employer, and create a file that organizes these materials. Notes about how the injury affects daily activities and quality of life can also provide important context when seeking compensation.

Report the Incident Promptly

Reporting the incident to the property owner or manager as soon as possible helps create an official record of what happened and reduces disputes about timing and notice. Obtain a copy of any incident report and confirm who you spoke with and when the report was made so there is an administrative trail. Prompt communication also makes it more likely that relevant evidence, such as surveillance footage or maintenance logs, will be preserved.

Comparing Legal Options After an Injury

When a Full Approach Helps:

Complex or Severe Injuries

A comprehensive approach is often appropriate when injuries are severe or when the long-term effects are uncertain, because medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment require careful assessment for future needs. In such situations, detailed medical documentation and coordination with treating providers help establish the extent and prognosis of injuries. A full review of liability issues and potential damages supports informed decisions about whether to negotiate a settlement or pursue other avenues to secure appropriate recovery.

Multiple Responsible Parties

When multiple parties may share responsibility, a broad approach helps sort out who is liable and to what extent, because premises cases can involve owners, managers, contractors, or third-party service providers. Thorough investigation can identify relevant maintenance records, contracts, and communications that clarify responsibility. Addressing all potential defendants up front helps protect recovery options and ensures the injured person’s interests are fully represented during negotiations or litigation.

When a Focused Approach Works:

Clear Liability and Minor Injuries

A limited approach may be appropriate when liability appears clear, documentation is straightforward, and injuries are minor with predictable treatment, allowing for a quicker resolution through negotiation. In those cases, focusing on collecting basic evidence, medical records, and repair or maintenance documentation can be sufficient to reach a fair settlement without extended investigation. This path can reduce time and cost for an injured person who prefers a prompt resolution and straightforward compensation for quantifiable losses.

Desire for a Faster Resolution

If an injured person prefers a faster outcome and the facts are not contested, a targeted effort to present a concise demand supported by clear records may achieve a timely settlement. This approach still requires accurate documentation of medical care and expenses, but it focuses resources on negotiation rather than lengthy discovery or trial preparation. Prioritizing a prompt, reasonable settlement can be appropriate for people who want to avoid protracted proceedings and move forward quickly.

Common Circumstances That Lead to Claims

Slip and Fall on Wet Floors

Slip and fall incidents often occur when floors are wet and lack clear warnings or proper maintenance, and they frequently arise in retail stores, restaurants, and building lobbies where spills or cleaning activities create hazards. Documenting the scene with photos and identifying employees or customers who saw the condition can support a claim for recovery.

Tripping Over Uneven Surfaces

Trips commonly happen when walkways, sidewalks, or entryways have cracks, uneven thresholds, or broken paving that are not repaired or marked for safety, causing pedestrians to lose balance and fall. Recording the exact location, taking measurements or photos, and noting nearby maintenance issues helps show how the condition created a foreseeable risk.

Inadequate Lighting or Maintenance

Poor lighting and deferred maintenance can obscure hazards such as broken steps or debris, increasing the chance of injury for visitors and patrons, particularly at night or in dimly lit areas. Evidence like maintenance requests, service logs, or prior complaints can show that the property owner knew or should have known about the unsafe condition.

Premises Liability Attorney in Great Neck Plaza

Why Choose Ahearne Law Firm for Premises Claims

Ahearne Law Firm PLLC offers personal attention to people injured on properties in Great Neck Plaza and throughout Nassau County. Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. consults directly with clients to review the facts, identify responsible parties, and develop practical plans for preserving evidence and pursuing recovery. The firm aims to handle communication with insurers and other parties so clients can focus on medical treatment and healing while receiving clear updates about important developments in their claim.

When handling a premises liability matter, the firm prioritizes careful investigation and documentation to support a client’s position, including gathering photographs, witness statements, and relevant property records. Early action to obtain surveillance footage and maintenance logs, along with coordination of medical documentation, helps protect legal options and informs decisions about settlement or further action. The goal is to secure a fair result that covers medical expenses, lost income, and other losses while minimizing stress for the injured person.

Contact Our Office to Discuss Your Claim

People Also Search For

premises liability lawyer Great Neck Plaza

slip and fall attorney Great Neck

personal injury lawyer Nassau County

trip and fall claim Great Neck Plaza

property owner liability New York

commercial property injury Nassau

homeowner liability Great Neck

injury claim assistance Great Neck

FAQS

What is premises liability and how does it apply to my case?

Premises liability is a legal concept that addresses injuries caused by dangerous conditions on someone else’s property, including private residences, businesses, and public spaces. It requires examining whether the property owner or manager owed a duty of care to the injured person, whether that duty was breached through negligent maintenance or lack of warning, and whether the breach caused the injury and resulting damages. Establishing these elements usually involves gathering evidence such as photos of the condition, maintenance records, and witness statements to show how the hazard existed and its connection to the injury. Every case is unique, and how premises liability law applies depends on factors like visitor status, the location of the hazard, and the property owner’s knowledge of the condition. Working promptly to document the scene and secure relevant records increases the likelihood of preserving important evidence. Consulting with a legal professional can help you understand the specific elements that need to be proven in your situation and the practical steps to protect your claim while you pursue recovery.

How long do I have to file a premises liability claim in New York?

In New York, statutes of limitation set deadlines for bringing legal claims, and these time limits vary by the type of claim and the parties involved. For many personal injury claims arising from premises incidents, a common deadline is two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit in court, though exceptions and different timelines can apply depending on the circumstances or if a public entity is involved. Missing the applicable deadline can prevent recovery, so it is important to confirm the specific time frame that applies to your case. Because deadlines can be affected by details such as when the injury was discovered, the age or status of the injured person, or whether the defendant is a government entity, early consultation helps ensure that actions are taken within the required period. An initial review can identify any exceptions or additional steps necessary to preserve claims, including providing timely notice to public property owners when that is required.

What types of damages can I recover after a premises injury?

Damages in a premises liability claim may include compensation for medical expenses related to the injury, both past and reasonably anticipated future costs, as well as lost income for time missed from work and potential future earning capacity impacts. Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life may also be recoverable depending on the severity of the injury and its effects on daily living. Property damage and out-of-pocket expenses directly tied to the incident can be included as well. The amount of recoverable damages depends on the facts of the case, including the nature and extent of injuries, the degree of fault assigned to each party, and evidence linking losses to the incident. Documentation like medical reports, pay stubs, and testimony about how the injury affects daily routines supports claims for both economic and non-economic losses. A careful assessment of current and future needs is important when evaluating potential recovery.

Do I need to prove that the property owner was negligent?

Yes, proving negligence by the property owner or occupier is generally a central part of a premises liability claim. This involves showing that the owner had a duty to maintain the property in a reasonably safe condition, that they breached that duty by allowing a dangerous condition to exist or by failing to warn of it, and that the breach caused the injury and resulting damages. Evidence such as maintenance records, incident reports, photographs, and witness statements helps demonstrate how the condition existed and whether it was known or should have been known to the owner. In some situations, liability may be established through specific legal theories or statutes that impose responsibility for certain conditions, but demonstrating causation and damage remains important. The burden of proof typically rests with the injured person to show that the owner’s actions or inaction were a substantial factor in causing the injury, and careful fact-gathering is essential to meet that burden.

What if I was partly at fault for my injury?

If you were partly at fault for your injury, New York’s comparative fault principles can reduce the amount you recover in proportion to your share of responsibility. For example, if a jury determines that you were thirty percent responsible and total damages are calculated, your final recovery would be reduced by that percentage. The court or negotiating parties will consider evidence about how the incident occurred and each party’s contributions to the hazard when assigning fault. Sharing fault does not necessarily bar recovery, but it does affect the ultimate compensation available. It is important to present evidence that shows the primary causes of the incident and any actions taken by the property owner or manager that contributed to the danger. Understanding the comparative fault implications early helps shape negotiation strategies and expectations about possible outcomes.

How is liability determined for a business or public property?

Liability for a business or public property is determined by looking at whether the owner or operator knew or should have known about a dangerous condition and failed to remedy it or warn visitors. Businesses have responsibilities to maintain safe environments for customers, and public entities may have specific notice requirements before claims can proceed. Showing a history of complaints, delayed repairs, or ignored maintenance requests can be persuasive in establishing that the condition was foreseeable and that corrective measures were not taken. When a public entity is involved, there are often additional procedural steps such as giving timely notice of a claim before a lawsuit can be filed. Reviewing the applicable rules and collecting evidence that demonstrates the property’s condition over time is key to establishing liability for both private businesses and public entities. Early preservation of records and clear documentation strengthens a claim against these parties.

What evidence is most important in a premises liability claim?

Important evidence in a premises liability claim includes photographs of the hazard and the surrounding area, incident or accident reports, surveillance footage if available, witness statements, and maintenance or inspection records that relate to the condition. Medical records and bills documenting the nature and extent of injuries are essential for showing damages, and evidence of lost income or out-of-pocket expenses supports economic loss claims. The more thorough and contemporaneous the evidence, the stronger the record for proving liability and damages. Taking prompt steps to preserve evidence improves the ability to reconstruct what happened and to show how the condition caused the injury. This may include requesting preservation of video footage before it is overwritten, securing written statements from witnesses, and saving any relevant clothing or items connected to the incident. Organized documentation helps present a clear narrative during settlement discussions or court proceedings.

Will my case go to trial or can it be settled?

Many premises liability claims are resolved through negotiation and settlement rather than going to trial, because settlements can provide a faster and more predictable resolution. Insurance companies often prefer to settle when liability and damages are clear, but complex cases or disputes over fault and damages may require further formal proceedings. Choosing negotiation or trial involves weighing the strength of the evidence, the amount of damages, and the injured person’s goals for recovery and timing. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed through discovery, motion practice, and potentially a trial where a judge or jury evaluates the evidence. Preparing for trial can be time-consuming, but it also allows a full presentation of the facts and a formal resolution when necessary. Discussing options and likely outcomes with a representative helps determine the most appropriate path for each individual situation.

How long does a premises liability claim usually take to resolve?

The time it takes to resolve a premises liability claim varies widely depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, the responsiveness of insurance carriers, and whether the matter settles or proceeds to trial. Straightforward claims with clear liability and minor injuries may resolve in a few months, while cases involving serious injuries, contested fault, or multiple defendants can take a year or longer. Medical treatment timelines and the need to establish future care also affect the schedule. Factors that influence duration include the time needed to gather medical records, obtain expert opinions if necessary, and complete discovery. Litigation timelines, court schedules, and negotiation dynamics also play roles. Maintaining open communication about expectations and timelines helps injured people plan for recovery while the claim progresses toward resolution.

How much will it cost to pursue a premises liability claim?

Many firms handle premises liability matters on a contingency-fee basis, meaning the client typically does not pay attorney fees upfront and fees are paid from any recovery obtained, which can make pursuing a claim more accessible for people concerned about immediate legal costs. There may still be expenses associated with gathering records or expert evaluations, and those costs are often advanced by the firm and reimbursed from any settlement or judgment. It is important to discuss fee arrangements and any potential out-of-pocket expenses during an initial consultation. Understanding the fee structure and how expenses are handled helps avoid surprises and allows clients to make informed choices about pursuing a claim. Clear communication about fee percentages, case costs, and how recoveries are distributed ensures transparency throughout the process and supports collaborative decision-making about settlement and litigation strategies.

Personal Injury Services in Great Neck Plaza

Explore our injury practice areas

⚖️ All Personal Injury Services