Slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries, costly medical bills, and unexpected disruptions to your life. If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident in New York City, one of the first questions you might have is, “How long will it take to settle my case?”
At David Resnick & Associates, our New York City personal injury attorneys understand that waiting for a resolution can be stressful. Still, the timeline for settling a case depends on various factors. Here’s what you need to know.
What Factors Affect the Timeline of a New York City Slip and Fall Case?
The time it takes to resolve a slip-and-fall case in NYC can range from a few months to several years, depending on several important factors.
They include:
- Severity of Injuries and Medical Treatment
The extent of your injuries and the time it takes to reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) significantly impact the timeline. It’s essential to wait until you fully understand the scope of your injuries and the associated costs before finalizing a settlement to ensure you receive adequate compensation.
- Evidence Collection and Investigation
Building a solid case requires gathering evidence, such as photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, and medical records. At David Resnick & Associates, we conduct a thorough investigation to ensure we have the facts to prove your claim. This process can take time, especially if evidence is challenging or expert testimony is required.
Slip-and-fall cases often involve disputes about who is at fault. Property owners and their insurers may argue that they weren’t aware of the hazardous condition or that you were partially responsible for the accident. Resolving these disputes can take time, especially if negotiation is required.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may delay claims by making low settlement offers or stalling negotiations. Our experienced attorneys know how to counter these tactics and advocate for fair compensation.
Filing a lawsuit may be necessary if negotiations with the insurance company don’t result in a fair settlement. This process involves discovery, depositions, and pre-trial motions, which can extend the timeline.
Cases involving public entities, such as the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), may take longer due to additional legal requirements, such as filing a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. Complex cases with multiple parties or severe injuries also take more time to resolve.
Why Rushing a Settlement Can Be Costly
While accepting the first settlement offer can be tempting, especially if you’re facing financial strain, it can result in inadequate compensation. A quick settlement may not account for future medical expenses, long-term rehabilitation, or lost earning capacity. At David Resnick & Associates, we take the time to ensure that every aspect of your damages is thoroughly evaluated so you don’t leave money on the table.
How David Resnick & Associates Expedites the Process
At David Resnick & Associates, we understand the importance of resolving your case quickly without compromising the quality of representation.
Our team works diligently to:
- Gather evidence and build a compelling case.
- Handle all communications with insurance companies to prevent unnecessary delays.
- Ensure all deadlines, such as filing a Notice of Claim, are met.
- Pursue a fair settlement or, if necessary, prepare for trial.
Our extensive experience with NYC slip-and-fall cases allows us to navigate the legal system efficiently while protecting your interests.
Contact David Resnick & Associates for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident in New York City, don’t wait to seek legal advice. The sooner you contact David Resnick & Associates online or by phone at 212-279-2000, the sooner we can build your case and pursue the compensation you deserve.
We serve clients throughout New York City, including Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, the Bronx, and Long Island. We are dedicated to fighting for your rights and helping you secure the justice and compensation you need to move forward. Let us handle the complexities of your case so you can focus on your recovery.
Founder of David Resnick & Associates, P.C., a New York personal injury law firm in charge of providing exceptional and personal service to each of our clients in various areas including car accidents, slip and fall, wrongful death, construction accidents, and premises liability. David Resnick founded the firm in 1998 after working in large law firms where he saw a need for greater client communication and more personal care.