Slip and Fall Accidents in NJ: What You Need to Know?

As you go about your day, you likely don’t expect to fall and get hurt. However, as the summer rolls in, more and more people will decide to walk as their primary mode of transportation. While this mode of transportation is typically not considered a dangerous activity, individuals can suffer devastating injuries in a slip-and-fall accident if they come across a property that is insufficiently maintained. If you find yourself in this situation, you may have legal recourse against a property owner to recover financial compensation for the damages you have wrongfully endured. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, it’s in your best interest to connect with a determined Morris County Slip & Fall Attorney who can fight for your rights. Please continue reading to learn the most common causes of slip and fall accidents in New Jersey to mitigate the risks. 

What Are the Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents?

Unfortunately, slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere and at any time, even where you least expect to be injured due to negligence. In New Jersey, property owners have a legal duty to maintain a safe environment, taking the necessary steps to prevent foreseeable risks and dangers. Additionally, they are responsible for warning visitors of any potential hazards that are not readily apparent. If they fail to keep the premises reasonably safe and someone is injured, they can be held liable for their negligence. The following include but are not limited to some of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents:

• Wet or uneven surfaces
• Spills on floors
• Cluttered walkways
• Poor lighting
• Defective sidewalks
• Missing handrails
• Worn or torn carpeting
• Accumulated ice or snow
• Potholes and cracks in parking lots
• Exposed wiring or tripping hazards

How Long Do You Have to File a Premises Liability Claim in NJ?

Under New Jersey law, individuals have up to two years to file a premises liability claim against a property owner after a slip and fall injury. Essentially, injured parties must file their claim within two years of the date of the accident. Failure to meet this strict legal deadline will result in an absolute bar of recovery. If you miss the legal deadline, you will relinquish your right to pursue legal action against the other party.

Nevertheless, there are exceptions to the statute of limitations, such as in cases involving minors. It’s important to note that if you were injured on government property, you will have a much shorter time frame to file your claim. This is because you must submit a claim notifying the government that they may be subject to a claim for damages. A Notice of Claim must be filed within 90 days of the accident.