Slip & Fall Accidents Happen Every Day in New York City

From icy sidewalks to wet floors in grocery stores, slip and fall accidents are among the most common causes of personal injury in New York City. While they might sound minor, these accidents can result in serious injuries —including fractures, head trauma, and long-term back problems.

Unfortunately, many victims unknowingly make critical mistakes in the hours and days following a fall. These errors can weaken or even destroy an otherwise valid injury claim.

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall in NYC, here are the most common mistakes to avoid —and how working with an experienced slip and fall accident lawyer in Queens can help protect your rights.

1. Not Reporting the Accident Immediately

One of the biggest NYC injury claim mistakes is failing to report the incident right away. Whether you fall in a supermarket, apartment building, or city-owned property, you must notify the property owner, manager, or employee as soon as possible.

Ask for an incident report, and make sure the details are accurate before signing. Without a formal report, the insurance company may argue the accident never happened—or that your injuries came from somewhere else.

2. Failing to Document the Scene

Evidence disappears quickly after a slip and fall. Cleanup crews may remove the hazard, security footage can be overwritten, and witnesses may forget what they saw.

Take these steps immediately if you’re able:

• Photograph the area where you fell (wet floor, broken step, uneven sidewalk, etc.).

• Capture context, such as lighting, warning signs (or lack thereof), and weather conditions.

• Get witness information, including names and contact details.

• Ask for surveillance footage, when available, this ensures it does not get deleted from a store's records, such as a grocery store 

If you’re too injured to document the scene, ask a friend or relative to help—or call your Queens slip and fall lawyer right away so they can preserve evidence.

3. Delaying Medical Treatment

Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Always seek medical attention the same day, even if you think you’re fine.

Doctors’ records create an official link between your accident and your injuries. Without them, insurance companies often claim your injuries were unrelated or exaggerated.

4. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Advice

Soon after the accident, you may get a call from an insurance adjuster asking for your statement. Remember: they work for the insurance company—not you.

Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts by getting you to:

• Admit partial fault.

• Downplay your injuries.

• Accept a low settlement before you know the full extent of your damages.

Before speaking to any insurance representative, consult with an experienced slip and fall accident lawyer in Queens. They can handle communications and negotiations on your behalf, ensuring you don’t say anything that could hurt your case.

5. Posting on Social Media

It’s natural to want to update friends or vent about your accident online—but doing so can backfire. Insurance companies regularly monitor social media accounts and may use your posts against you.

Even a casual photo or check-in can be misinterpreted to suggest you’re less injured than you claim. Until your case is resolved, it’s best to avoid posting about your accident or health altogether.

6. Waiting Too Long to Contact a Lawyer

In New York, there are strict time limits (statutes of limitation) for filing personal injury claims—typically three years from the date of the accident, but shorter if the property is owned by a city or government agency.

The sooner you contact a Queens slip and fall lawyer, the better they can:

• Secure and preserve crucial evidence.

• Obtain surveillance footage before it’s deleted.

• Identify all liable parties and insurance coverage.

Delays can make your case harder to prove, so it’s wise to speak with an attorney as early as possible.

7. Settling Too Quickly

After a fall, medical bills can add up fast. You may be tempted to accept the insurance company’s first offer—but early settlements rarely cover the full cost of your medical care, lost wages, and future treatment.

A knowledgeable attorney will evaluate the long-term impact of your injuries before negotiating a settlement, ensuring you receive the compensation you truly deserve.

Protect Your Rights With a Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer in Queens

At Kichloo Law PLLC, we help injured New Yorkers avoid these common mistakes and pursue full compensation after a slip and fall accident in NYC. Our firm investigates your claim, gathers evidence, negotiates with insurers, and—when necessary—takes your case to court.

We understand that every case is personal. Our goal is to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

Contact Kichloo Law PLLC Today

If you or a loved one were hurt in a slip and fall accident in Queens or anywhere in New York City, don’t wait. Reach out to Kichloo Law PLLC for a free consultation with an experienced attorney who will fight for your rights.