Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyers
Experienced Buffalo Injury Lawyers Fighting For Victims of Slip & Fall Injuries in Western New York
Slip and fall accidents are one of the most common causes of personal injuries in Buffalo, NY. These accidents can lead to serious injuries, expensive medical bills, and lost income. At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, our Buffalo slip and fall attorneys have decades of experience helping clients recover compensation for injuries caused by unsafe conditions on private and commercial properties.
We understand the unique challenges of slip and fall cases in Western New York, including icy sidewalks, wet floors, and uneven pavement. Our team guides you through every step of the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected.
Read Our Free Slip and Fall Guide
Common Causes of Slip and Falls in Buffalo
Buffalo’s weather and urban environment create several hazards that often lead to accidents:
- Ice and snow: Lake-effect snow and icy sidewalks are common hazards during winter.
- Wet floors: Spills, rainwater, and poorly maintained entryways can create dangerous slippery conditions.
- Uneven pavement: Cracked sidewalks, potholes, and loose tiles can cause trips and falls.
Our attorneys have extensive experience proving liability in these conditions and understand the local laws that protect injured pedestrians.
Who Is Liable
In New York, property owners owe visitors a duty of care to maintain safe conditions. To hold a property owner liable, it must be shown that:
- The owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition.
- The owner failed to take reasonable steps to fix the hazard or warn visitors.
Whether your injury occurred at a private residence, retail store, or public property, our Buffalo slip and fall lawyers can help determine liability and pursue maximum compensation.
Comparative Negligence
New York follows a comparative negligence system. This means that if you were partially at fault for your fall, your compensation may be reduced proportionally. For example, if you are found 20% at fault and total damages are $100,000, your recovery would be $80,000.
We work to minimize the impact of comparative negligence and ensure that injured clients receive the maximum compensation possible.
What Your Case May Be Worth
The value of a slip and fall case depends on the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and other damages. Typical settlements in Buffalo include:
- Minor injuries: $5,000–$20,000
- Moderate injuries requiring therapy: $20,000–$75,000
- Severe injuries requiring surgery: $75,000–$250,000+
For more detailed information on cases involving surgery and severe injuries, see our guide on slip and fall injuries requiring surgery.
What to Do Immediately After a Fall
Taking the right steps after a slip and fall is critical to protecting your rights:
- Document the scene: Take photos of the hazard, surrounding area, and your injuries.
- Report to the property owner: Notify the manager, landlord, or business owner and request an incident report.
- Seek medical care: Prompt evaluation not only protects your health but documents injuries for your claim.
Following these steps helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
Why Choose Our Buffalo Slip and Fall Attorneys
At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we provide compassionate, results-driven representation for slip and fall victims in Buffalo and nearby areas. Our attorneys:
- Have extensive knowledge of New York personal injury law
- Understand local property conditions and ordinances
- Handle insurance negotiations and litigation
- Fight to maximize your medical and financial compensation
Benjamin J.
Andrews
Partner
Robert J.
Maranto, III
Attorney
Rea Marcelo
Roxas
Attorney
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Slip and Fall in Buffalo, NY
Slip and fall injuries can be serious. They often cause pain, medical bills, and missed work. If you were injured in Buffalo, NY, knowing what not to do can protect your rights and improve your chances of getting fair compensation. At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, our Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyers guide clients through the process and answer questions about injury claims.
Hiring the Wrong Lawyer
One common mistake is hiring a lawyer who does not handle trials. Insurance companies know which lawyers regularly go to court. If they see you have a lawyer who rarely tries cases, they may offer less money or fight harder. Choosing a lawyer who is experienced in taking cases to trial can help ensure your claim is taken seriously.
Not Getting Immediate Medical Care
After a fall, it is important to see a doctor right away, even if you think your injury is minor. Delaying care can make injuries worse and hurt your case. Medical records provide proof of your injuries and help show the severity to insurance companies or in court.
Skipping Treatments or Ignoring Doctor’s Orders
Failing to follow your doctor’s advice, skipping appointments, or not completing physical therapy can affect your recovery and your claim. Insurance companies look for gaps in treatment as a reason to pay less. Staying on schedule with medical care shows that you are taking your recovery seriously.
Talking to the Insurance Company Without a Lawyer
Insurance companies may contact you soon after your accident. Do not give recorded statements or sign anything without talking to a lawyer first. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or blame you for the accident. Your Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyers can communicate with insurance companies and protect your rights.
Verdicts & Settlements
$7.7 Million
Pedestrian Accident
$1.4 Million
Auto Accident
$2+ Million
Auto Accident - Severe Knee Injury
$395,000
Slip and Fall on Ice
$300,000
Car Accident Emotional Damage
Six-Figure Settlement
Knee Injury - Car Accident
Frequently Asked Questions – Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyers
Do I need a lawyer for a slip and fall?
While you can try to handle a slip and fall claim on your own, having a Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyer can greatly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, communicate with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are protected.
How long does a slip and fall case take?
The length of a slip and fall case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the complexity of the case, and whether the insurance company offers a fair settlement. Most cases in Buffalo take several months to a year, but some cases may take longer if they go to trial.
Can I sue a store for a slip and fall?
Yes. If you were injured on a store’s property due to unsafe conditions, such as wet floors, poor lighting, or uneven flooring, you may have a claim. Our Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyers can review your case and help determine if the property owner or business is responsible.
What if I was partially at fault for the fall?
New York uses a comparative negligence system. If you are partially responsible for your fall, your compensation may be reduced proportionally. For example, if you are 20% at fault and the damages are $50,000, your recovery would be $40,000.
What should I do immediately after a fall?
After a slip and fall, you should:
- Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor.
- Document the scene with photos and notes.
- Report the incident to the property owner or manager.
- Avoid speaking to insurance companies without consulting a lawyer.
Following these steps helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
How much is my slip and fall case worth?
The value of a slip and fall case depends on the severity of your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Minor injuries may settle for a few thousand dollars, while severe injuries requiring surgery can result in settlements of $75,000 or more.
Can I file a claim if the fall was on public property?
Yes, but filing a claim against a city or government agency has strict rules, including notice requirements and shorter deadlines. A Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyer can guide you through the process to ensure your claim is filed correctly.
Do I need to see a doctor if I feel fine?
Yes. Injuries from a fall can appear later, such as back pain, concussions, or soft tissue injuries. Immediate medical attention creates a record of your injury, which is important for your claim.
How can Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC help?
Our Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyers provide guidance from the moment you contact us. We help document your injuries, communicate with insurance companies, and pursue the maximum compensation possible. We also explain every step of the legal process so you can focus on your recovery.
The team is very personable, patient and empathetic with their clients. They are upfront with you and will explain the entire process with you, they never lead you to believe otherwise, they tell you like it is and will not sell you a million dollar dream. Trust in Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, they work for you and he looks out for your best interest.”
- Jane D.
Contact Our Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyers
If you were seriously injured in a slip and fall in Buffalo, NY, it is important to take action as soon as possible. Injuries from falls can be severe, and navigating the legal system on your own can be confusing. The team at Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC. is ready to guide you through every step of your claim. Our Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyers are here to answer your questions, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
We understand that being injured can create stress, uncertainty, and financial pressure. That is why we offer free consultations. When you call or contact our office, we will review your case, explain your options, and help you understand how the legal process works—without any cost or obligation. During this consultation, we will discuss the circumstances of your fall, the extent of your injuries, and the potential value of your claim. Our goal is to give you clear information so you can make the best decision for yourself and your family.
At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC., we also handle cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay any legal fees unless we achieve a successful result on your claim. You never have to worry about upfront costs or monthly payments. Our focus is on obtaining the maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages caused by your slip and fall accident. You can focus on healing while we handle the legal work.
The legal process for a slip and fall case in Buffalo typically begins with gathering evidence. Our lawyers will investigate the scene of your accident, collect witness statements, and obtain medical records documenting your injuries. We will also assess liability, including whether the property owner or business failed to maintain safe conditions or provide proper warnings.
Once your case is documented, we negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Insurance adjusters often attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims, but our Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyers handle all communications and advocate for your best interests. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Our attorneys have experience representing clients at trial and understand how to present evidence, question witnesses, and make a persuasive case before a judge or jury.
Time is critical in slip and fall cases. New York has strict deadlines for filing claims, and delaying action can limit your ability to recover compensation. Contacting our firm promptly ensures that evidence is preserved and your claim is filed within the required legal timeframe.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall in Buffalo, NY, do not wait. Call Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC. today or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation. Our Buffalo Slip and Fall Lawyers are ready to guide you through the process, protect your rights, and work tirelessly to help you recover what you are owed. Your recovery and future are our priority.
