There are a variety of slip-and-fall claims that an individual in New York or elsewhere may try to pursue. Those who fall on an elevator or a motorized walkway could claim that negligence occurred because an equipment failure caused them to fall. When there isn't enough lighting in a building or there are objects on the floor, a person may claim that an inadequate facility caused their injuries.
An injured person could contend that his or her injuries occurred because the property owner didn't take the time to replace a bulb or get a box to put cables in. Another common type of slip-and-fall claims involves inadequate warning. This may happen if a person isn't alerted to a wet floor or alerted to the fact that an object may be a tripping hazard. Failure to provide proper warning may be considered negligent on behalf of a property owner.
It is important to note that a visitor has a duty to watch out for his or her own safety. When determining if negligence occurred, a judge or jury may look to see if the plaintiff engaged in behavior that could have led to an accident occurring. Cases may be settled in small claims court or another setting depending on the extent of the damages incurred.
If it can be shown that a property owner allowed dangerous conditions to exist on his or her property, it may be considered negligent. A negligent property owner may be responsible for paying any damages an injured victim incurs. Examples of negligence may include failing to warn a person about a wet floor or failing to provide security to protect a patron. Injured victims may be entitled to the cost of medical bills and any lost wages or future earnings.