FAQs
Answers to common injury case questions
What should I do immediately after a slip and fall accident?
After a fall, your safety comes first. Seek medical attention right away, report the incident to the property owner or manager, take photos of the scene, and get contact information from witnesses. Document everything — this evidence can strengthen your case.
How do I know if I have a valid slip and fall case?
You may have a case if your fall was caused by someone else’s negligence. In New York, property owners are legally required to maintain safe conditions. If they failed to fix or warn about a dangerous condition — such as ice buildup, poor lighting, or uneven surfaces — they may be held responsible for your injuries.
Who can be held liable for a slip and fall in New York?
Liability can fall on property owners, landlords, businesses, or even government entities. For example:
A store owner who fails to clean up a spill
A landlord who ignores icy sidewalks
A city agency that neglects a broken walkway
Our team will investigate every possible party to ensure full accountability.
What compensation can I recover after a slip and fall?
Victims may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical bills and future treatment
Lost income or reduced earning ability
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Long-term rehabilitation costs
We fight to maximize your recovery so you can focus on healing.
How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in New York?
Under New York law, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, if your accident occurred on government property, you may need to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days. Contact our office as soon as possible to protect your rights.
What if I was partially at fault for my accident?
New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault. Your compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of responsibility — but don’t assume you have no case until you speak with an attorney.
Do I really need a lawyer for a slip and fall case?
Yes. Slip and fall claims can be complex, especially when property owners or insurers deny responsibility. An experienced Buffalo slip and fall lawyer like Robert Berkun will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
How much does it cost to hire Robert Berkun Personal Injury Law?
We work on a contingency fee basis — meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. You owe us nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
What if my slip and fall happened at work or on government property?
If you were injured at work, you may have a workers’ compensation claim. If your accident happened on city, county, or state property, you can still pursue a claim — but strict deadlines apply. We’ll help you navigate the process and meet all filing requirements.
How long will my case take?
Every case is unique. Some resolve in a few months through settlement; others take longer if litigation is required. Factors include the severity of your injuries, the clarity of liability, and how cooperative the insurance company is. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
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