Slip and fall accidents are among the most common causes of personal injury across the United States. While some incidents result in minor bruises or embarrassment, others can lead to serious injuries, long-term health issues, and even permanent disability. When your fall is due to someone else’s negligence, it’s not just an accident—it’s a legal matter.
That’s where a slip and fall accident attorney comes in. If you’ve been hurt in a fall on someone else’s property, understanding your legal rights is critical. In this article, we’ll explore what these attorneys do, why hiring the right one matters, and how Dewitt Law can help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
What Does a Slip and Fall Accident Attorney Do?
A slip and fall accident attorney is a type of personal injury lawyer who specializes in premises liability law. Their job is to help injured individuals hold negligent property owners, businesses, or municipalities accountable when unsafe conditions cause someone to slip, trip, or fall.
Some of their key responsibilities include:
- Investigating the cause of the accident
- Identifying liable parties
- Collecting evidence (like photos, medical records, and witness statements)
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit if necessary
- Representing clients in court
They bring expertise in building a case that proves negligence and demonstrates how the fall led to real damages—both physically and financially.
Why Hiring an Experienced Attorney Matters
You may wonder if you can handle your case alone, especially if the injuries seem minor at first. However, property owners and insurers often have legal teams on their side, working to minimize payouts or deny responsibility altogether.
An experienced slip and fall accident attorney understands the legal system, local laws, and insurance tactics. They know how to build a strong case and can ensure that you're not taken advantage of during the claims process.
At Dewitt Law, we believe every injury victim deserves to be heard. With decades of experience in slip and fall cases, our team knows how to fight for full and fair compensation while guiding clients through what can be a stressful and confusing time.
How Dewitt Law Supports Slip and Fall Victims
Dewitt Law has built a reputation for protecting the rights of injury victims across New York and beyond. We take a compassionate yet aggressive approach, working closely with clients to understand their needs while pushing back hard against negligent parties and uncooperative insurers.
Here’s how Dewitt Law can help you:
- Free Consultations: We’ll evaluate your case and explain your legal options at no cost.
- No Fees Unless You Win: You only pay if we secure a settlement or verdict for you.
- Personalized Legal Strategy: Every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to fit your specific situation.
- Aggressive Negotiation: Our attorneys are skilled in obtaining maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Courtroom Experience: If your case goes to trial, we’re ready to fight for you in court.
When you work with Dewitt Law, you gain a team that’s committed to securing justice—so you can focus on healing.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall incidents can occur anywhere—from grocery stores to office buildings, sidewalks, hotels, and apartment complexes. Many of these accidents are preventable with proper maintenance and attention to hazards. Unfortunately, negligence is all too common.
Here are some frequent causes:
- Wet or slippery floors (due to spills, rain, or mopping)
- Uneven sidewalks or pavement
- Poor lighting in stairwells or hallways
- Loose carpeting or floorboards
- Icy walkways or parking lots
- Missing handrails or defective stairs
- Obstructed pathways or cluttered walkways
A seasoned slip and fall accident attorney will assess how the hazard occurred and whether the property owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the danger.
What to Do Immediately After a Slip and Fall
Taking the right actions after a fall can make a big difference in both your recovery and your legal case. If you’re physically able, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel okay, internal injuries or delayed symptoms are possible. Medical records also serve as evidence.
- Report the Incident – Notify the property owner, store manager, or building supervisor. Ask for a written report.
- Document Everything – Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and anything that contributed to the fall.
- Collect Contact Information – Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
- Avoid Giving Statements – Do not admit fault or speak extensively to insurance companies without legal advice.
- Contact a Slip and Fall Accident Attorney – The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of a successful claim.
Understanding Your Legal Rights and Compensation
If someone else's negligence led to your injury, you have the right to pursue a claim. A qualified slip and fall accident attorney can determine whether your case meets the criteria for a premises liability lawsuit and help you calculate the damages you're entitled to recover.
Potential compensation includes:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
At Dewitt Law, we thoroughly evaluate each case to ensure our clients seek the full value of their claim. Whether your case settles out of court or proceeds to trial, our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim?
In most states, including New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident. However, if your fall occurred on government property, you may need to file a notice of claim within 90 days.
What if I was partially at fault for the fall?
New York follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault—though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
How much does it cost to hire a slip and fall accident attorney?
At Dewitt Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. This allows injury victims access to quality legal representation without upfront costs.
Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Recovery
A fall might seem like an unfortunate accident, but if someone else’s carelessness was the cause, you shouldn’t have to carry the burden alone. An experienced slip and fall accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure the compensation you need to move forward.
Whether you’re dealing with a minor injury or a life-altering condition, Dewitt Law is here to stand by your side. Don’t wait—your health, rights, and financial future depend on the actions you take today.
