In a highly-populated, busy city such as New York, it’s inevitable that accidents will happen. When it comes to accidents involved with public transportation, roughly 50% are due to falls.
Many of these falls result from negligence on the part of the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA), which is responsible for commuter safety while using the subway system. However, proving that the MTA was responsible for a subway slip and fall accident can be extremely difficult, especially if you attempt to do so without the help of an experienced slip and fall attorney.
What Injuries Can Occur Due to a Subway Slip and Fall?
Numerous injuries can be sustained as a result of slipping and falling on the subway or the subway platform. Injuries due to a slip and fall can differ in severity and include:
- Cuts, scrapes, bruises;
- Fractures, muscle tears, ligament sprains;
- Traumatic brain injuries, concussions, spinal cord injuries.
Of course, there are many other injuries that can also occur due to a slip and fall. No matter the severity of the injury, victims can experience financial hardship due to medical bills, lost wages, and other related costs. In some cases, victims may be dealing with the consequences of slip and fall accidents for the rest of their lives.
What Are Some Common Reasons for Subway Slip and Fall Accidents?
There are tons of considerations that need to be made with regards to subway safety. After all, millions of residents of New York City use the subway every day, and they all need to be kept safe.
This means that routine monitoring and repairs must be performed and safety checks need to be diligently conducted on a regular basis. Sadly, these measures are often overlooked simply due to the massive amount of work it takes to properly ensure safety.
Some of the common causes of subway slip and falls include:
- Wet or icy walking surfaces,
- Poorly maintained flooring,
- Loose handrails,
- And many more.
What Should I Do If I’ve Suffered a Subway Slip and Fall Accident?
The first thing you should do if you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident is to be evaluated by a physician. This will not only ensure that you have your medical needs addressed, but the documentation from this visit will serve as a valuable asset in your case.
Additionally, if you are able to do so, you should document the scene after your accident. Take pictures of the cause of your accident, get the names of any witnesses who may have seen you fall, and generally gather as much evidence as possible.
Last but not least, you should contact an experienced slip and fall attorney as soon as possible. For most people, navigating the confusing legal world of subway slip and fall cases on their own will result only in frustration and less of a settlement than is deserved.
A good slip and fall attorney will ensure that you get every penny to which you are entitled. Call today!
