Quick Answer: If you were injured in a slip and fall in New Jersey, you may have a premises liability claim. NJ applies a reasonable care standard with modified comparative negligence (51% bar). Property owners must remove snow/ice within a reasonable time. The statute of limitations is two years, with a 90-day notice requirement for government claims. Call (610) 255-7500.

Experienced Slip and Fall Lawyer in New Jersey

Slip and fall accidents are one of the leading causes of serious injuries in New Jersey. Whether you slipped on a wet floor in a grocery store, tripped on a broken sidewalk, fell on an icy parking lot, or were injured due to poor lighting in a stairwell, property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions for visitors. When they fail to do so, and you are injured as a result, you have the right to pursue compensation. Attorney Michael Siddons has extensive experience handling premises liability claims throughout New Jersey and will fight to hold negligent property owners accountable.

New Jersey Slip and Fall Laws

New Jersey premises liability law requires property owners and occupiers to maintain their properties in a reasonably safe condition. The duty of care owed to you depends on your status on the property — invitees (customers, guests) are owed the highest duty, licensees (social visitors) a moderate duty, and trespassers generally the lowest. New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault. The statute of limitations is two years. New Jersey also has specific rules regarding snow and ice — property owners must remove snow and ice within a reasonable time after a storm ends. For claims against government property (public sidewalks, government buildings), you must file a notice of tort claim within 90 days.

Types of Slip and Fall Cases We Handle

Our firm handles all types of slip and fall and premises liability cases in New Jersey including wet floor accidents in stores and restaurants, icy sidewalk and parking lot falls, broken or uneven stairway accidents, poorly lit walkways and corridors, defective handrails or guardrails, torn carpeting and uneven flooring, pothole and broken sidewalk injuries, elevator and escalator accidents, swimming pool slip and falls, and construction site slip and fall accidents. We investigate the property’s maintenance history and any prior complaints to build the strongest case possible.

Compensation Available in New Jersey Slip and Fall Cases

New Jersey slip and fall victims may recover compensation for all medical expenses including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation, lost wages and diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring and disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, and in cases involving willful or wanton conduct, punitive damages. Slip and fall injuries can be severe — traumatic brain injuries, hip fractures, spinal injuries, and broken bones are common — and the resulting compensation can be substantial.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prove a slip and fall case in New Jersey?

You must prove that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition, failed to fix it or warn about it within a reasonable time, and that the condition directly caused your injury. Evidence like surveillance footage, maintenance logs, prior complaints, and witness statements are critical.

What is the statute of limitations for slip and fall in NJ?

Two years from the date of the accident. For claims against government property, you must file a notice of tort claim within 90 days. Contact an attorney immediately to preserve your rights.

What if I fell on a public sidewalk in New Jersey?

Claims against municipalities for sidewalk falls are allowed but have special requirements. You must file a notice of tort claim within 90 days and prove the municipality had notice of the dangerous condition. Some municipalities have ordinances that shift sidewalk maintenance responsibility to adjacent property owners.

Will the property owner say I should have watched where I was going?

This is the most common defense in slip and fall cases. While you do have a duty to be aware of your surroundings, the property owner’s duty to maintain safe conditions is paramount. Comparative negligence may reduce your award if you were partially at fault, but it does not bar your claim unless you are 51% or more at fault.

What should I do immediately after a slip and fall?

Report the incident to the property owner/manager, take photos of the hazardous condition before it’s fixed, get witness contact information, seek medical attention immediately, save your shoes and clothing, and contact an attorney. Do not give a recorded statement to the property owner’s insurance company.

Injured in a Slip and Fall? Get Your Free Case Review

Our experienced premises liability attorneys have recovered millions for slip and fall victims. We work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win.

Free Consultation Call (610) 255-7500