Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer Serving Garden City, Queens, Suffolk & Nassau

Experienced Legal Representation for Slip and Fall Victims Across Long Island

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere—from wet floors at Roosevelt Field Mall to icy sidewalks near the Garden City train station. When property owners fail to maintain safe conditions, innocent visitors can suffer serious injuries that result in costly medical bills, lost wages, and long-term pain. At Miller, Montiel & Strano, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families throughout Garden City, Queens, Suffolk, and Nassau County.

Our slip and fall accident lawyers have been protecting the rights of injured Long Island residents for five decades. We know how to investigate these complex cases, hold negligent property owners accountable, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve under New York law.

For a free consultation with an experienced slip and fall attorney, contact us online or call 516-363-5003 today.

Areas We Serve

Miller, Montiel & Strano proudly serves slip and fall accident victims throughout:

• Garden City - Including areas near Stewart Avenue, Franklin Avenue, and Nassau Boulevard
• Queens - From Flushing to Jamaica and surrounding neighborhoods
• Suffolk County - Serving communities across eastern Long Island
• Nassau County - Including Hempstead, Levittown, Freeport, and surrounding areas

Our Garden City office at 600 Old Country Road is conveniently located to serve clients throughout the region, and we make home and hospital visits when necessary.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

Property owners have a legal duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions for visitors. Slip and fall accidents often occur due to:

Weather-Related Hazards

• Ice and snow accumulation on sidewalks and parking lots
• Wet floors from tracked-in rain or snow
• Inadequate snow removal or salting

Property Maintenance Issues

• Cracked, uneven, or broken pavement
• Loose carpeting or floorboards
• Worn or damaged stairs and handrails
• Poor lighting in stairwells and walkways

Negligent Cleaning and Maintenance

• Spilled liquids not promptly cleaned up
• Freshly mopped floors without warning signs
• Debris or obstacles blocking walkways
• Defective or missing safety equipment

Whether your accident occurred at a local business near Garden City Plaza or on municipal property, our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances to determine liability.

What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident

Taking the right steps immediately after your accident can strengthen your potential claim:

• Seek Medical Attention - Your health is the top priority. Get medical care even if injuries seem minor, as some conditions worsen over time.
• Document the Scene - Take photos of the hazardous condition, your injuries, and the surrounding area. Conditions can change quickly.
• Report the Incident - Notify the property owner or manager and request that they file an incident report.
• Gather Witness Information - Collect names and contact details of anyone who saw your accident.
• Preserve Evidence - Keep the clothing and shoes you were wearing, and avoid discussing the accident on social media.
• Contact an Attorney - Time limits apply to slip and fall claims, so it's important to seek legal guidance promptly.

Proving Liability in Slip and Fall Cases

To recover compensation, we must demonstrate that the property owner was negligent. This requires proving:

• A dangerous condition existed on the property
• The owner knew or should have known about the hazard
• The owner failed to take reasonable steps to fix or warn about the danger
• The dangerous condition directly caused your injuries

Our experienced attorneys work with accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and other experts to build compelling cases for our clients.

Understanding New York's Legal Requirements

Statute of Limitations

Under New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) § 214(5), slip and fall victims have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to compensation forever.

Notice of Claim Requirements

If your accident occurred on government property (such as municipal sidewalks), you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days under General Municipal Law § 50-e. The lawsuit must then be commenced within one year and 90 days of the incident. These strict deadlines make it crucial to contact an attorney immediately after accidents on public property.

Comparative Negligence

New York follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for your accident. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you won't be barred from recovery entirely.

Compensation Available in Slip and Fall Cases

Slip and fall injuries can result in significant financial losses and life changes. Depending on your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy costs
• Home modifications for permanent disabilities

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability or disfigurement

Our attorneys work with medical professionals and economic experts to accurately calculate the full value of your claim, ensuring nothing goes uncompensated.

How Miller, Montiel & Strano Helps Slip and Fall Victims

Thorough Investigation

We conduct comprehensive investigations to establish liability and document damages. This includes reviewing security footage, interviewing witnesses, examining maintenance records, and consulting with experts when necessary.

Aggressive Negotiation

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny valid claims. We handle all communications with insurers, protect you from tactics designed to reduce your compensation, and fight for fair settlements.

Trial-Ready Representation

While many cases settle out of court, we're always prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. Our attorneys have extensive courtroom experience and aren't afraid to fight for your rights before a jury.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we secure compensation for your case. This makes quality legal representation accessible when you need it most.

Types of Slip and Fall Accidents We Handle

Premises Liability Cases

We represent clients injured on both private and public property due to negligent maintenance, inadequate security, or other dangerous conditions.

Sidewalk Accidents

Under New York City Administrative Code § 7-210, property owners are often responsible for maintaining adjacent sidewalks. We handle cases involving cracked pavement, ice accumulation, and other sidewalk hazards.

Retail Store Accidents

From spills at grocery stores to poor lighting in shopping centers, we hold retail establishments accountable for maintaining safe conditions for customers.

Workplace Slip and Falls

While workers' compensation may apply, third-party liability claims are sometimes possible when accidents occur due to property owner negligence.

Why Choose Miller, Montiel & Strano

Five Decades of Experience

Our firm has been protecting New York injury victims since the 1970s. Senior Partner Steven Miller has over 40 years of trial experience, while partners Catherine Montiel and David Strano each bring decades of dedicated advocacy for injured clients.

Personalized Attention

Unlike firms that pass cases to paralegals, every case at Miller, Montiel & Strano is handled by a partner from start to finish. We provide the personal attention and communication you deserve during this difficult time.

Local Knowledge

Our Garden City office gives us deep knowledge of local courts, judges, and procedures throughout Nassau, Suffolk, and Queens. We understand the unique challenges facing Long Island residents and tailor our approach accordingly.

Proven Results

We have secured substantial settlements and verdicts for slip and fall victims throughout the region. While past results don't guarantee future outcomes, our track record demonstrates our commitment to achieving maximum compensation for our clients.

Community Involvement

We're proud members of the Long Island community. Our firm supports The Book Fairies, a non-profit organization putting books into the hands of underserved children. We also provide pro bono assistance to 9/11 victims' families and first responders.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in New York?

Most slip and fall cases must be filed within three years under CPLR § 214(5). However, cases involving government property have much shorter deadlines—typically 90 days to file a Notice of Claim and one year and 90 days to commence the lawsuit.

What if I was partially at fault for my accident?

New York's comparative negligence law allows you to recover damages even if you were partially responsible. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you won't be completely barred from recovery.

How much does it cost to hire a slip and fall lawyer?

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice without upfront legal costs.

Can I still file a claim if there were no witnesses?

Yes. While witness testimony can strengthen your case, it's not required. Physical evidence, security footage, incident reports, and your own testimony can all support your claim.

What should I do if the property owner asks me to sign something?

Never sign any documents without consulting an attorney first. Property owners and insurance companies may try to get you to sign releases or statements that could harm your case.

How long does a slip and fall case take to resolve?

Case timelines vary depending on the complexity of your injuries, the strength of the evidence, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate fairly. Some cases settle within months, while others may take years if trial becomes necessary.

Contact Miller, Montiel & Strano Today

If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident in Garden City, Queens, Suffolk, or Nassau County, don't wait to seek legal representation. Evidence can disappear quickly, and strict deadlines apply to these cases. Our experienced attorneys are ready to investigate your accident, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Start Your Injury Claim Today

The sooner you contact us, the better we can protect your interests and build a strong case for maximum compensation. Our team is available 24/7 to take your call, and we make home and hospital visits when necessary.

For a free consultation with an experienced slip and fall accident lawyer, contact us online or call 516-363-5003 today. Let Miller, Montiel & Strano put five decades of legal experience to work for you.

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• Why You Need an Attorney for Your Premises Liability Case