As injuries from falls continue to be the leading cause of hospitalizations among adults 25 years and older, new trends continue to shape the legal landscape. In response, more victims are turning to an experienced slip and fall lawyer in Long Island to help them navigate the increasingly complex process of securing compensation. While it’s our goal to take on the burden of the claims process, it is still important for New Yorkers to understand the latest trends to help them choose the best law firm to handle their case.
Slip and Fall Lawyer Explains Trends Shaping Cases in 2025
From infrastructure to new categories of damages, these trends explain why more victims are seeking an experienced personal injury lawyer.
Outdated Infrastructure Drives More Claims
Many New York buildings, sidewalks, and parking lots were constructed decades ago and now show signs of neglect, such as cracked pavement and uneven flooring. These hazards are especially dangerous for older adults, where even a small defect can lead to serious injuries such as hip fractures or head trauma. Limited municipal budgets and delayed property maintenance mean these dangers often go unrepaired for long periods.
Because these risks are so widespread, more injured residents are turning to personal injury attorneys to help identify unsafe conditions and preserve evidence before repairs erase proof of negligence.
Staffing Shortages in Retail and Service Venues Increase Risks
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many New York retailers, grocery stores, and service providers have operated with reduced staff. The effect is clear: slower cleanup times, less frequent inspections, and greater potential for accidents.
When a spill or hazard is left unattended, it increases the risk of falls for customers and employees alike. The lack of on-site personnel also means incidents may go unreported or unrecorded until after conditions are altered or cleaned.
Psychological Injuries Are Recognized More Often
Slip and fall litigation once focused almost entirely on physical harm. In 2025, more claims now include psychological injuries such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress following a traumatic fall.
Victims may develop a fear of walking in public spaces, recurring nightmares, or ongoing emotional distress. Courts and insurers increasingly accept these claims as valid forms of non-economic damages, provided they’re supported by medical documentation or expert testimony.
When discussing your case with an attorney, it’s important to mention any emotional or psychological effects of the accident. These symptoms can meaningfully increase your case’s overall value.
Larger Verdicts and Settlements Reflect Higher Risk
New York continues to see some of the nation’s largest jury awards in personal injury litigation. Known as “nuclear verdicts,” these multimillion-dollar outcomes often drive defendants and insurers to settle cases early to avoid trial uncertainty.
Strict liability statutes, such as New York’s Scaffold Law, further heighten exposure for property owners and contractors. Juries across the state tend to be sympathetic to seriously injured plaintiffs.
For victims, this environment increases leverage during settlement negotiations. As a result, it enables a personal injury lawyer to use the threat of trial to secure stronger settlements and ensure fair compensation.
Municipal Liability Claims Put Pressure on Public Budgets
Slip and fall accidents on public property, such as sidewalks, plazas, and walkways, are rising, straining municipal budgets as claims and payouts cut into already limited funds.
While municipalities are now more open to negotiating settlements, they also defend aggressively. Common arguments include lack of prior notice, shared fault, or government immunity. To succeed, plaintiffs must demonstrate that the city or town knew, or should have known, about the defect in time to correct it.
The attorneys at Matera & Manley, LLP, understand the procedural hurdles involved in suing a municipality. They know how to apply pressure through effective evidence collection and legal strategy to secure the highest settlement possible.
How a Slip and Fall Lawyer in Long Island Helps Determine Settlement Value
Slip and fall settlements in New York vary widely depending on the severity of the injury, available evidence, and insurance coverage. These are the common values:
- Minor injuries, such as sprains or soft-tissue damage, may settle between $10,000 and $50,000.
- Moderate to severe fractures or surgical cases can reach $75,000 to $500,000 or more.
- Catastrophic injuries or permanent disabilities often exceed $500,000 and can reach into the millions.
As verdicts grow larger and insurers become more cautious, working with a slip and fall attorney becomes even more essential. Having a dedicated attorney who understands the local court system and legal trends is the best way to build a powerful case.
Trust a Dedicated Slip and Fall Lawyer In Long Island
If you’ve suffered an injury from a slip and fall, we are here to help you navigate your claim. Contact Matera & Manley, LLP today for a free consultation. Our dedicated Long Island attorneys will evaluate your case, explain your rights, and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
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