From iconic exteriors to sleek, glassy interiors the buildings in this city are unlike any others in the world. While companies try to outpace each other with modern, high-tech, and futuristic-looking office building interiors, there’s one thing they seem to be forgetting about in their rush to perfect their designs: your personal safety. Indeed, especially after the snowstorm we just had, these posh office building interiors can often lead to conditions that cause slippery floor accidents in New York City.
Think about your office’s foyer or maybe an office building that you visit on your delivery route. Sure, the polish stone, concrete, or tile floor looks great when it’s all shiny and glossy but it can be as slippery as ice when you introduce even a little moisture. Carrying in some melting snow in on your shoes can turn those polished floors into a skating rink.
While ground-level falls are generally considered to be a “minor mechanism”, one study published in Case Report of Orthopedics found that the effect of a ground-level fall can be devastating. Additionally, ground level slip and fall accidents are responsible for the majority of fall-related hospital visits nationwide.
Because slip and fall accidents caused by a slippery floor often catches the victim completely unaware, it is not surprising that these injuries result in broken bones and others that require hospitalization.
Under New York premises liability law, property and store owners have a responsibility to keep their walkways reasonably safe. That duty includes regular inspection of the floor, cleaning up standing water, snow, and ice, and if necessary, putting safety mechanisms (like anti-slip mats) at the entrances to their buildings. If these safety protocols are not followed, those responsible can be held legally liable for any injuries incurred by victims who slip and fall.
If you or a loved one has fallen in a store, apartment or office building, you should contact an experienced slippery floor accident lawyer in New York City. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel at 800-734-9338 or 212-385-1122 for your free consultation today.