experience can make all the difference
We have over 75 years of combined experience
expect personalized attention and care
We are with you every step of the way on your road to recovery
an AWARD-WINNING law firm
We were voted best law firm on Long Island in 2024
100% PLAINTIFF FOCUSED — NEVER INSURANCE COMPANIES
We fight exclusively for injured people, delivering real results for members of our community.
Experienced Long Island Premises Liability Attorneys
A serious fall can change your life in seconds. What may feel like a routine trip to a store, a walk through a parking lot, or an evening out at a public venue can end with fractured bones, spinal injuries, or a head injury that lingers for months.
Slip and fall accidents are rarely random. In many cases, they are the predictable result of poor maintenance, inadequate inspection, or a failure to correct hazards that should have been addressed.
Property owners across Long Island have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a safe condition for lawful visitors. That duty includes inspecting the property, correcting dangerous conditions, and warning people about hazards that cannot be immediately fixed.
When they fail to meet that obligation, and someone is injured as a result, they can and should be held accountable.
At Palermo Law, we approach slip and fall litigation with the seriousness it deserves. From the moment we are retained, we begin preserving evidence, investigating liability, and preparing the case as if it will go before a jury. Insurance companies know which firms prepare aggressively — and which firms negotiate quickly. Preparation changes leverage. Leverage changes outcomes and leads to results.
Where Slip and Fall Accidents Happen on Long Island
Slip and fall injuries occur in everyday environments throughout Long Island, often in high-traffic locations where safety should be a priority.
Retail centers and shopping destinations such as Roosevelt Field Mall and Smith Haven Mall see thousands of visitors daily. Spilled beverages, recently mopped floors without proper warning signs, leaking refrigeration units, and tracked-in rainwater or snow and ice can create dangerously slick surfaces. Property owners and management companies are expected to conduct regular inspections and respond quickly when hazards arise.
Event venues and entertainment spaces like UBS Arena, Nassau Coliseum and Jones Beach Theater present unique risks. Dim lighting, spilled drinks, congested stairways, and heavy foot traffic increase the likelihood of falls. When venues fail to implement adequate cleaning protocols or supervision, preventable injuries occur.
Public walkways and recreational areas such as the Jones Beach boardwalk attract heavy pedestrian traffic year-round. Uneven planks, poorly maintained walking surfaces, slippery conditions, and insufficient lighting can all contribute to serious falls.
Falls also frequently occur in apartment buildings, residential complexes, office buildings, and parking lots where cracked pavement, loose handrails, untreated ice, or poor lighting create unsafe conditions.
Slip and fall cases often arise in locations where safety policies should already be in place. When those policies are ignored or poorly enforced, people get hurt.
What Must Be Proven in a Long Island Slip and Fall Case
Slip and fall claims are governed by premises liability law. To succeed, an injured person must generally establish three key elements.
First, a dangerous condition must have existed. There must be a defect or hazardous condition that created a risk of harm.
Second, the property owner must have had notice. This can be actual notice, meaning they were directly informed of the condition, or constructive notice, meaning the condition existed long enough that a reasonable inspection would have discovered it.
Third, the owner must have failed to act reasonably by correcting the hazard or warning visitors within a reasonable period of time.
Insurance companies frequently argue that they had no knowledge of the condition, that it appeared only moments before the fall, that it was open and obvious, or that the injured person was not paying attention. Strong investigation and documentation are critical to overcoming these defenses.
Comparative Fault in Slip and Fall Cases
New York follows a comparative negligence system. Insurance companies often attempt to argue that the injured person shares some responsibility for the fall. They may claim you were distracted, wearing improper footwear, or failed to observe a visible condition.
Even if partial responsibility is proven, compensation is still available. The goal is to prevent unfair blame shifting and ensure liability is allocated properly.
“I focus 100% of my practice on Personal Injury. I believe this area of law takes ALL of an attorney’s focus to be well versed.”
Steven Palermo
Common Causes of Long Island Slip and Fall Injuries
Most fall cases stem from identifiable and preventable conditions, including untreated snow and ice accumulation, refrozen meltwater, slippery tile or polished flooring, mopping without visible warning signs, loose carpeting or floor mats, broken steps, missing handrails, cracked sidewalks, leaking refrigeration units, and inadequate lighting.
Long Island’s winter weather frequently plays a role. While property owners are not required to instantly eliminate every snowflake, they are required to act within a reasonable period of time. Ice that remains untreated for extended periods, repeated thawing and refreezing, and poorly cleared walkways often form the basis of liability.
The central legal issue is rarely just what caused the fall — but whether the responsible party had sufficient time and opportunity to correct the danger.
verdicts & settlements
$5.5
million
For injuries caused by the mistaken release of a prison convict
$3.2
million
For a client who was injured after getting hit by a truck
$1.7
million
For a client who was injured from a construction accident
$1.5
million
For a client injured in a motor vehicle accident
$1.05
million
The victim suffered a fractured ankle while on another parties premises
$1.025
million
For a client who was injured from a drunk driver
$975
thousand
For a client injured in a motor vehicle accident
$950
thousand
For a client injured in a motor vehicle accident
Meet Steven Palermo, Personal Injury Lawyer
Across Long Island
I’m Steven Palermo, a Long Island personal injury lawyer with nearly three decades of experience representing people whose lives have been changed by serious accidents. I built my practice on honesty, personal attention, and a willingness to take on powerful insurance companies and corporations when they refuse to do what’s right.
My commitment to personal injury law comes from being in your shoes. In college, I suffered an injury that required a six-hour knee surgery and ended my college lacrosse career, with a recovery that took years. Several years later, I was in a severe accident when my car was rear-ended by a box truck and pushed into oncoming traffic. I lived through the pain, the uncertainty, and the frustration of dealing with insurance companies that questioned my injuries and tried to shift blame instead of taking responsibility. Experiencing that process firsthand showed me how unfair it can be for injured people who are just trying to recover and move forward.
Today, I’ve represented hundreds of injured clients across Long Island and recovered more than $75 million on their behalf. I approach every case knowing there is a real person behind it, someone dealing with pain, stress, and uncertainty, because I’ve been there myself.
“...knowledgeable and easy to work with.”
Steven Palermo was extremely professional and got me a settlement when I wasn’t even sure I had a case. His staff was very knowledgeable and easy to work with. Will definitely use them again if the need arises.
Sherri M.
google review
“My experience with this law firm was excellent.”
Steven Palermo went above and beyond his call of duty to make sure I was awarded all that I was entitled to. Mr Palermo’s staff was very professional and kind in such a tender time in my life. I highly recommend Mr. Palermo along with this law firm to all my friends and relatives. In fact I already have.
Gillean G.
google review
“...cannot be happier with our decision!”
Steven Palermo was referred to us from a friend and I cannot be happier with our decision. He worked hard to obtain a settlement to compensate for pain I had to undergo as a result of an accident. I will continue to refer anyone in need of a car accident attorney to this office! Thanks Palermo for everything!
James M.
google review
“All my expectations were met...”
Steve and his staff were very polite and diligent. I felt the human side of the business. They even came to my home to visit. Steven always told me the truth about my case. All my expectations were met, and I truly appreciate that!
Astrid C.
google review
online ratings
serving all of Long Island
click here toView All Practice AreasWhat To Do After a Slip and Fall on Long Island
The steps you take immediately after a fall can significantly impact both your recovery and your legal claim.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if symptoms seem minor, internal injuries, concussions, and soft tissue damage may not appear right away. Early medical care protects your health and creates a clear timeline linking the fall to your injuries. Insurance companies often challenge cases when there are delays in treatment, arguing that the injury was not serious or not caused by the incident.
Follow through with recommended care. Consistency matters.
Document the Hazard
Conditions can change quickly. Spills are cleaned. Ice melts. Broken surfaces are repaired.
If you are physically able, photograph the hazard itself and the surrounding area. Capture lighting conditions, warning signs (or the absence of warning signs), weather conditions, and the general layout of the location. These photographs may later become some of the strongest evidence in your case.
Identify Witnesses
Independent witnesses can confirm how long the condition existed, whether management had been notified, or whether no warnings were present. Obtain names and contact information before they leave the scene.
Report the Incident Properly
Notify a manager or property owner as soon as possible and request that an incident report be created. Provide factual information and avoid speculation. Request a copy of the report.
Do Not Speak with Insurance Adjusters
Insurance adjusters often reach out quickly and request recorded statements. These statements are designed to limit their liability. Adjusters may ask questions that seem harmless but are really designed to trap you, downplay your injuries, or create inconsistencies.
You are not required to provide a recorded statement. Speaking with counsel first protects your rights.
Preserve Evidence at Home
Keep the shoes and clothing worn during the fall. Save medical bills, receipts, and documentation of expenses. Photograph visible injuries and consider keeping a journal documenting your treatment providers, pain levels, mobility limitations, and how the injury affects daily life.
You have questions? We have answers.
No legal mumbo jumbo—just easy-to-read answers to the questions that matter most. Our guide to handling New York State car accidents is written just for you.
download the “e-book”
What Your Slip and Fall Case May Be Worth
There is no universal formula for case value. Each claim is unique and depends on multiple factors.
Economic Damages
These include financial losses such as emergency room visits, hospital stays, diagnostic imaging, surgery, physical therapy, pain management, future medical treatment, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity.
Serious injuries may require long-term care. Future projected expenses can significantly affect case value.
Non-Economic Damages
These address the personal impact of the injury, including physical pain, emotional distress, loss of mobility, permanent impairment, and loss of enjoyment of life.
The effect of the injury on your ability to work, participate in activities, and maintain your daily routine matters.
Factors That Influence Case Value
Severity and permanency of injury, strength of liability evidence, comparative fault allegations, quality of medical documentation, and litigation posture all influence case value.
Insurance companies frequently attempt to minimize slip and fall claims, particularly when injuries involve soft tissue damage or aggravation of pre-existing conditions. Strong preparation, expert consultation when necessary, and thorough documentation help ensure fair valuation.
Statutes of Limitation and Claims Involving Public Property
Every personal injury case is governed by time limits known as statutes of limitation. These laws determine how long you have to file a lawsuit after an injury occurs. If a claim is not filed within the legally required time period, the right to pursue compensation is permanently lost — regardless of how strong the case may be.
In most slip and fall cases in New York, the general statute of limitations for personal injury is three years from the date of the accident. That means a lawsuit must typically be filed within three years. However, waiting that long is rarely advisable. Evidence disappears, surveillance footage may be erased, hazardous conditions are repaired, and witnesses become difficult to locate.
Shortened Deadlines for Municipal or Government Claims
When a slip and fall involves property owned, operated, or maintained by a public or government entity, the deadlines are dramatically shorter.
In many cases, a formal Notice of Claim must be filed within 90 days of the incident. This requirement applies to claims involving municipalities, public authorities, and other governmental bodies.
For the official statutory requirements governing municipal notice deadlines, see New York General Municipal Law § 50-e:
The Notice of Claim is not simply a letter. It is a statutory prerequisite to filing a lawsuit that must contain specific information. Failing to file it within the required time period can significantly impact or eliminate your ability to recover compensation.
Determining whether a public entity is involved is not always obvious. Maintenance responsibility can differ from ownership, and multiple entities may share control. Early legal review helps identify responsible parties and ensure compliance with all deadlines.
Slip and Fall Claims Across Long Island
Slip and fall accidents occur throughout Long Island in commercial, residential, and recreational settings.
Whether your fall happened at a retail center in Nassau County or on commercial property in Suffolk County, the governing legal standards remain rooted in premises liability law.
Trial-Ready Representation
Most slip and fall cases resolve before trial — but preparation determines leverage.
Our approach includes immediate evidence preservation, thorough investigation, expert consultation, when necessary, strategic negotiation, and litigation if negotiations stall. When settlement offers fail to reflect the true value of a claim, we are always prepared to take the case to trial.
Why Hire Palermo Law?
We offer free consultations, charge no fee unless we win, and provide direct attorney involvement in every case. We handle all insurance communications and approach every matter with a litigation-focused strategy. We have never represented insurance companies — and never will.
Understanding Your Full Legal Options
Some slip and fall cases involve broader liability issues, multiple responsible parties, or significant long-term disability.
To understand how injury claims are built, litigated, and resolved across Long Island, visit our Long Island personal injury attorney page:
Schedule a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident anywhere on Long Island, we invite you to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We will review the details of your accident, explain your legal options clearly, and give you an honest assessment of your case.
Palermo Law maintains offices throughout Long Island, including Babylon, Carle Place, East Hampton, Elmont, Hauppauge, Huntington, Mineola, Patchogue and Riverhead, making it convenient to meet in person. If you are unable to travel, we can also arrange a consultation at your home or in the hospital.
You may also reach out directly through our online contact form.
We handle all slip and fall cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long do I have to file a slip and fall lawsuit on Long Island?
In most slip and fall cases, the statute of limitations is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, if a government entity is involved, shorter deadlines may apply.
What if I slipped on ice outside a Long Island store?
Property owners must act reasonably to address snow and ice within a reasonable time after a storm. Liability often depends on timing, notice, and whether the condition was properly treated.
Can I sue a shopping mall or large retail center on Long Island?
Yes. Large commercial properties like malls and retail centers can be held responsible if they failed to inspect, maintain, or warn about dangerous conditions.
Do I need proof that the property owner knew about the hazard?
Yes. You must generally show the owner had actual or constructive notice of the dangerous condition and failed to correct it in a reasonable time.
What if I fell at a Long Island concert venue or arena?
Event venues have a duty to maintain safe premises. Spilled liquids, poor lighting, or unsafe stairways can form the basis of a premises liability claim.
Can I still recover if I was partially at fault?
New York follows comparative negligence rules. Even if you were partially responsible, you may still recover compensation, though your award may be reduced.
What damages can I recover in a Long Island slip and fall case?
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost income, future treatment costs, and pain and suffering depending on the severity of your injuries.
What if my fall happened on public property on Long Island?
Claims involving municipal or government property often require a Notice of Claim within 90 days, which is much shorter than standard deadlines.
Are slip and fall cases hard to win in New York?
They can be challenging because you must prove either actual or constructive notice and unreasonable delay. Strong early investigation and documentation are critical to success.
Do I need a lawyer for a Long Island slip and fall claim?
While not legally required, premises liability cases often involve complex issues and defenses. An experienced attorney can preserve evidence and protect your rights from the start.
legal memberships & awards
