Uneven flooring might not seem like a major threat at first glance, but in New York, these trip hazards can lead to serious injuries—and just as serious legal consequences. Cracked tiles, warped wooden floors, or poorly secured carpets can cause someone to lose their footing in a split second. At Gash & Associates, P.C. in White Plains, we represent clients who’ve been hurt due to dangerous conditions like these, helping them hold property owners accountable and pursue the compensation they deserve.
Types of Uneven Flooring That Can Cause Injury
Not all floor defects are immediately obvious. A single broken tile in an entryway, a warped floorboard in a hallway, or even a rippled rug in a retail store can create a significant risk. People trip and fall over hazards like:
- Cracked or raised concrete slabs
- Loose or curling carpeting
- Buckled hardwood flooring from moisture damage
- Missing or broken floor tiles
These flaws can exist in residential properties, commercial spaces, or public buildings—and when they’re ignored or neglected, they become more than just an eyesore. They become a danger.
Who’s Responsible? Understanding Duty of Care
In New York, property owners and managers are required by law to keep their premises reasonably safe. That duty of care extends to homeowners, landlords, businesses, and even municipalities. If they fail to inspect, maintain, or repair uneven flooring—and someone gets hurt as a result—they may be held legally responsible.
For example, a landlord who ignores tenant complaints about warped hallway flooring, or a business owner who fails to replace torn carpet near a store entrance, could be found liable for resulting injuries. Even if the property is open to the public, such as a government building or sidewalk, there may still be legal avenues for compensation.
Documenting the Scene Is Critical
If you’ve tripped and fallen because of unsafe flooring, what you do next matters. Try to document the hazard before it’s fixed or cleaned up. Photos of the floor defect, witness statements, and even security footage can all support your claim. Keep records of your injuries and medical treatment, and report the incident to the property owner or manager immediately.
Getting Legal Help After a Fall
Uneven flooring cases can be difficult to prove without experienced legal support. At Gash & Associates, P.C., we investigate the scene, consult with experts, and build strong cases to show the property owner’s negligence. If you’ve been injured, we’re here to help you pursue damages for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prove uneven flooring caused my injury?
Evidence is key. Photographs, eyewitnesses, and medical records that show the timing and extent of your injuries all help build your case.
What if the hazard wasn’t marked or visible?
Lack of warning signs often strengthens your claim. Property owners have a duty to warn of known dangers—or fix them promptly.
Can I sue a business for uneven flooring?
Yes. If the business was responsible for maintaining the area and failed to do so, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim.
If you’ve been injured due to uneven flooring, contact Gash & Associates, P.C. at (914) 328-8800. We’ll fight for the justice you deserve.