Common Causes of Slip and Falls in New Jersey
The common causes of slip and falls in New Jersey often involve a hazard that a property owner knew about but never fixed. A slip and fall injury attorney from our firm can examine the condition that caused your fall and determine whether a property owner ignored a known danger.
At GGL Injury Lawyers, we understand that a fall can have lasting consequences. Medical treatment creates financial strain. Missed work and uncertainty about what comes next add pressure. We treat every client like family while building each case with the preparation necessary to hold negligent property owners accountable.
What Causes Most Slip-and-Fall Accidents?
Most New Jersey slip-and-fall accidents involve a walking surface or condition that becomes unsafe. Some hazards appear suddenly, while others develop over time. A claim can arise when a property owner knows about a dangerous condition but fails to fix it or warn lawful visitors.
Frequent hazards include:
- Wet or slippery floors from spills or leaks
- Uneven or broken surfaces, such as cracked pavement
- Poor lighting that hides steps or floor hazards
- Ice or snow on entrances and sidewalks
- Unmarked dangers that leave visitors without a warning
The cause of your fall matters because it helps connect the unsafe condition to the harm that followed. Our attorneys will look closely at the circumstances and determine whether the property owner knew about the hazard but failed to correct it.
Property Negligence in a Slip-and-Fall Claim
A claim for a slip and fall in New Jersey with a common, preventable cause often rests on premises liability and negligence. A property owner’s basic duty is to keep the premises reasonably safe for lawful visitors. They must also warn about or repair hazards they know about. If they fail to meet this duty and a visitor is injured, negligence can provide a basis for seeking compensation.
Evidence becomes especially important when the condition changes after the accident. Our attorneys will examine available records and photographs. We will also review witness information that clarifies what happened. We act early because a well-developed case gives us stronger leverage in negotiations and prepares us to litigate when an insurer refuses to value the harm fairly.
How Does Fault Affect a Slip-and-Fall Case?
Even when a slip and fall has a clear, common cause, multiple parties in New Jersey may still share fault. Under N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1, you can recover compensation as long as your share of fault is not greater than the defendant’s. If you are more than 50 percent at fault, you recover nothing; if you are less than 50 percent at fault, your award is reduced by that percentage.
Timing also matters. Under N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2, you generally must file a personal injury lawsuit within two years of the injury. Starting the legal process well before that deadline gives our team more time to evaluate the claim and prepare the case.
Contact Our New Jersey Attorneys About a Slip and Fall
Our team at Garces, Grabler, & LeBrocq will evaluate the circumstances of your accident and clearly explain the claims process. Understanding the common causes of slip and falls in New Jersey can help you recognize when a preventable property hazard may support a negligence claim. We prepare every case for trial and focus on obtaining meaningful results.
With more than 5,000 5-star reviews, our team of Certified Trial Lawyers (CTL) has earned the trust of clients who turn to us during difficult moments. Contact us today to discuss your fall and learn how we can help.
