Slip/Trip & Fall Accidents

Slip & Fall Lawyer in Union County

Your Path to Recovery & Justice with a Slip & Fall Attorney in Union County

One moment, you’re casually walking around. The next moment, you’ve slipped or tripped and suffered an injury. In that blink of an eye, your life changed from normalcy to one that will focus on medical treatment, rehabilitation, and perhaps missed time at work.

Whether the incident happened at Warinanco Park, The Mills at Jersey Gardens, or somewhere near home, if your slip and fall accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you deserve compensation. At Law Office of Michael Chelland, our slip and fall lawyer in Union County knows what it takes to get you a fair settlement.

Call (908) 948-8395 or contact us online today for a free consultation and learn what our Union County, NJ, slip & fall lawyer can do. We meet clients in person & virtually, whatever is best for you.

What Is Premises Liability?

Premises liability is a fundamental concept in personal injury law, especially in slip-and-fall or trip-and-fall cases. It holds property owners and occupiers legally responsible for maintaining safe environments to prevent accidents.

The extent of this duty often depends on the type of visitor entering the property. The law classifies visitors into three categories—invitees, licensees, & trespassers:

Invitees are guests who enter a property for mutual benefit, such as customers visiting a store. Property owners owe the highest duty of care to invitees, which includes regularly inspecting the premises, promptly addressing dangers, & warning guests about hidden hazards.
Licensees, such as social guests or delivery personnel, also deserve protection, but the owner must only warn them of known dangers that are not obvious.
Trespassers are owed minimal duty. One notable exception is the “attractive nuisance.” Children can be curious, & property owners are expected to do things like fence in their pools & generally avoid leaving hazards that might injure an unknowing child.

By defining the relationship between the injured plaintiff & the defendant in these terms, courts can determine what duty of care was owed to the injured party & set the framework for determining whether or not that duty was breached.

Common Causes of Slip & Fall Accidents

Slips & trips can happen almost anywhere. However, several common factors contribute to these types of accidents:

Wet floors are one of the leading causes. Spills, leaks, & recently mopped surfaces can create slippery conditions, especially when no warning signs are in place.
Uneven surfaces also pose significant risks. Cracked sidewalks, loose floorboards, & poorly maintained carpeting can catch someone off guard, leading to trips & falls.
Poor lighting is another frequent contributor to accidents. Dimly lit stairways, parking lots, & hallways can obscure steps or obstacles, making it difficult for visitors to see potential dangers.
Cluttered walkways create unnecessary risks. Items like cables, boxes, & debris left in walking paths are common culprits in trip & fall incidents.
Weather-related hazards, such as ice, snow, & rain, further increase the likelihood of accidents. Slippery sidewalks & entryways become perilous if not properly treated with salt, sand, or mats. Water tracked indoors can lead to falls when not promptly addressed.

When property owners fail to take reasonable steps to correct or warn about these issues, they could be held legally liable for resulting injuries.

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Common Injuries from Trip & Fall Accidents

One of the most common injuries resulting from these accidents is fractures, especially in the wrists, arms, ankles, and hips. These injuries often occur when people instinctively use their hands to break their fall or when the impact directly affects weight-bearing joints like the hips. Hip fractures, in particular, are severe and can require surgery, extensive recovery periods, & physical rehabilitation.

Other common injuries can include:

Sprains
Soft tissue injuries
Concussions
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
Back & spinal injuries

Beyond physical injuries, the emotional and financial impact of slip and falls shouldn’t be overlooked. Chronic pain, loss of independence, and mounting medical bills create immense stress for injured people and their families.

Understanding the potential severity of slip and fall injuries is crucial in comprehending why pursuing a legal claim is often necessary. Our team not only works to alleviate the immediate burdens but also focuses on long-term impacts. Your recovery is our priority, and we provide the support necessary to navigate these challenges effectively.

Better Days Are Closer Than You Think

With Michael Chelland, You Have A Warrior On Your Side

We genuinely care about you—your journey, your recovery, and making sure you’re supported every step of the way. Here's what sets us apart.

Personal Attention

We understand how overwhelming this time can be. We take the time to listen and address your concerns with care and understanding.
Strategic Advocacy

We focus on creating practical solutions tailored to your unique situation, keeping your needs at the forefront of everything we do.
Relentless Pursuit of Justice

Our compassionate care turns into steadfast persistence with insurance companies, working toward fair compensation.
Guidance You Can Trust

We guide you through every step of the process with transparency and clear communication, allowing you to focus on recovery.

We Can Help with Your Slip & Fall Case in Union County

Serving clients throughout Union County, Essex County, and beyond, our lawyer works on contingency. That means the only way you pay us a fee is if we secure a settlement. Don’t go it alone after a slip-and-fall accident. Let Attorney Michael Chelland work for what you need to recover and be made whole.

Whether you're dealing with insurance company negotiations or setting up medical appointments, our goal is to alleviate as much stress and burden as possible. We take pride in our empathetic approach and transparent communication, keeping informed and confident in the progress of your case.

Get in touch with our Union County slip & fall attorney by calling (908) 948-8395 today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slip & Fall Cases

What Should I Do Immediately After a Slip & Fall Accident?

Immediately after a slip and fall accident, prioritize your safety and health. Ensure you seek medical attention, even if injuries initially seem minor, as they may become apparent later. Document the scene by taking photographs of the accident location, noting any hazards or conditions that contributed to your fall. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information as well. Report the incident to the property owner or manager, ensuring the accident details are documented. Write down your account of the event as soon as possible to preserve details while they're fresh in your memory. Lastly, get in touch with a slip and fall lawyer in Union County for guidance.

How Long Do I Have to File a Slip & Fall Claim in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, including Union County, the statute of limitations for filing a slip and fall lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this time frame usually results in the court dismissing the case. However, exceptions may apply depending on the specifics of your situation. Consulting with a slip and fall attorney in Union County as soon as possible can help you navigate legal deadlines and avoid jeopardizing your claim due to a procedural oversight.

What Compensation Can I Recover in a Slip & Fall Case?

Victims of slip and fall accidents in Union County may be eligible to recover several forms of compensation. These often include medical expenses such as emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and anticipated future treatments. Lost wages due to time away from work and diminished earning capacity from long-term injuries may also be compensated. Additionally, victims can seek damages for pain and suffering, which cover both physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident. Since each case involves unique circumstances, a thorough evaluation by an experienced slip and fall attorney is essential to determine the full value of your claim.

Can I Still File a Claim if I Was Partially at Fault in NJ?

Yes, you can still file a slip and fall claim in New Jersey if you were partially at fault for the accident. New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule, allowing you to recover damages as long as you are not more at fault than the other party. Any compensation awarded to you will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you were found to be 30% responsible for the fall, your compensation will be reduced by that amount.

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"I Felt Like A Priority"
Michael made the entire process seamless. Not only is he incredibly knowledgeable, but he also demonstrates genuine compassion for his clients.

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Extremely professional, very helpful and knowledgeable. Mr. Chelland provided me with excellent legal counsel on multiple occasions and I highly recommend!

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His strategic approach, attention to detail, and communication instilled confidence in me throughout the entire process. I felt empowered and supported every step of the way.

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