A horrific department store accident in New York early this fall has claimed the life of a 54-year old mentally disabled man. The man was with a group of individuals, including an aide, from a group home where he lived when he somehow fell over a railing at a New York shopping mall and plummeted to his death. The tragic accident occurred on what was described as a routine day trip-something the residents of the home had done many times before in the past.
In order to please customers, clients, and coworkers, owners of retail outlets, offices, art galleries and the like often request mezzanines, balconies, and open central spaces to create the illusion of space. But police investigating the accident say it is unclear how exactly the man fell-nobody witnessed the fall from the fourth floor. But how was this mentally disabled individual who was living in a group home and under the supervision of an aide employed by the home at the time of his fatal fall put into a position to seriously injure himself. His safety was in their hands and they failed to keep him from the hazard that claimed his life. The aide and home were responsible for the safety of this individual. Additionally, the mall itself could be found at least partially responsible for the accident if the investigation reveals that the balcony’s railing was not sufficiently secured.
Department store accidents in New York can result in serious injuries. Stairways and escalators, elevator shafts, and unguarded balcony or roof railings all constitute danger. In the blink of an eye, a life can be snuffed out or irreparably damaged by injuries sustained during in such a fall. If you or a loved on has been injured in such a fall, contact a New York City premises liability lawyer to discuss your case. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel for a free consultation at or 212-385-1122 to learn your rights to fair compensation to cover unpaid medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering . Call immediately as any delay could jeopardize your rights.