When you visit a store, restaurant, or any other business in New York City, you expect a reasonably safe environment. But what happens if you slip and fall on a spill that wasn’t caused by an employee, but by another customer? Can the business still be held responsible for your injuries? These are common and important questions, especially in a city where foot traffic and crowded spaces are part of daily life. Continue reading and reach out to a knowledgeable New York City personal injury lawyer from the Law Office of Richard M. Kenny to learn whether business owners are liable for spills caused by customers. Here are some of the questions you may have:
Are Business Owners Responsible for Spills Caused by Customers?
In general, property owners and occupiers owe a duty of care to people who enter their premises legally. For business owners, this includes customers, clients, and even delivery personnel. Under New York premises liability law, businesses must take reasonable steps to keep their property safe. That includes regularly inspecting the premises, cleaning up hazards, and addressing any dangerous conditions they either knew about or should have known about.
If a customer spills a drink in a grocery store aisle and you slip on it five seconds later, the business might not be liable because there wasn’t enough time to discover and fix the problem. But if the spill was there for 15 or 20 minutes, and no one cleaned it up, that could be considered negligence. The law often hinges on whether the business had “actual” or “constructive” notice of the hazard.
Does Timing Matter In Slip and Fall Cases?
Yes, the amount of time a hazard is present plays a crucial role in determining liability. Courts look at whether the business had enough time to discover the dangerous condition and either clean it or warn customers. Surveillance footage, witness statements, and maintenance logs are often key in these cases.
For example, if surveillance video shows that an employee walked past the spill several times without taking action, that could support a claim of negligence. Likewise, if a store has poor maintenance procedures or no system in place to routinely check for hazards, that could also weigh against them.
Each case is fact-specific, and small details can make a significant difference in the outcome. That’s why it’s important to consult a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an accident occurs.
What Should You Do If You Slip On a Spill?
If you’re injured after slipping on a spill in a New York City business, take action immediately. Try to document the scene by taking photos of the spill and your injuries, if you’re able. Report the incident to management, and make sure it’s recorded. Get medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Some symptoms, like concussions or soft tissue damage, may take time to appear.
Lastly, speak with a personal injury lawyer who understands the nuances of New York premises liability law. They can help determine whether the business owner can be held liable and guide you through the process of filing a claim.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW YORK CITY FIRM
Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, call (212) 421-0300 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a slip & fall lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help you on your road to recovery.
#Business #Owners #Liable #Spills #Caused #Customers #Personal #Injury #Lawyer