What Happens If You’re Injured in a Store? Understanding Premises Liability in New York

February 21, 2025

What Happens If You’re Injured in a Store? Understanding Premises Liability in New York

Accidents can happen anywhere, including in stores where you expect a safe shopping experience. If you slip, trip, or suffer any other injury due to hazardous conditions in a store, you may have a premises liability claim. At The Law Office of Tedd Kessler, P.C., we help New Yorkers understand their legal rights when they are injured due to a store owner’s negligence.


What Is Premises Liability?


Premises liability refers to a store owner’s responsibility to keep their property reasonably safe for visitors. If a business fails to address hazards—such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or falling merchandise—they may be held liable for injuries that occur on their premises.


In New York, property owners and businesses must regularly inspect and maintain their stores to prevent dangerous conditions. If they fail to do so and someone gets hurt, the injured party may have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.


Steps to Take After a Store Injury


If you are injured in a store, taking the right steps can help protect your legal claim:


  1. Seek Medical Attention – Your health should be your first priority. Even if the injury seems minor, getting medical care establishes a record of your condition.
  2. Report the Incident – Inform the store manager or owner immediately. Request that they document the incident and obtain a copy of the report.
  3. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the hazard that caused your injury, such as a wet floor or broken railing. Get contact information from witnesses who saw the accident.
  4. Preserve Records – Keep medical bills, receipts, and any other documentation related to your injury.
  5. Consult a Premises Liability Attorney – A lawyer can evaluate your case and help you determine the best course of action.




To hold a store responsible for your injuries, you must prove that:

  • A hazardous condition existed.
  • The store owner or employees knew or should have known about the danger.
  • They failed to fix or warn about the hazard in a reasonable time.
  • Your injuries resulted from this negligence.


New York follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially responsible for the accident. For example, if you ignored warning signs or were distracted at the time of the injury, the store may argue that you share some liability.


Seeking Compensation for Your Injuries


If a store’s negligence caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation for:


  • Medical expenses (including future treatments)
  • Lost income from missed work
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Rehabilitation costs


At The Law Office of Tedd Kessler, P.C., we understand how difficult it can be to navigate a premises liability claim while recovering from an injury. Our team is dedicated to advocating for New Yorkers who have been hurt due to unsafe conditions in stores and other public spaces.


Contact Us for Legal Assistance


If you or a loved one has been injured in a store in New York, don’t wait to seek legal guidance. The sooner you act, the better your chances of building a strong case. Contact The Law Office of Tedd Kessler, P.C. today to discuss your legal options and protect your rights.

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