Slip-and-Fall Accidents in Subway Stations: How to Build a Case Against Negligent Maintenance

Slip-and-Fall Accidents in Subway Stations: How to Build a Case Against Negligent Maintenance

Hill & Moin LLP is proud to serve New York City residents with trusted, proactive personal injury legal support focused on your recovery and your future. Every day, millions of commuters rely on the New York City subway system, operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). With such heavy foot traffic, it’s no surprise that slip-and-fall accidents are among the most common injuries in subway stations.

From wet platforms in Times Square to broken steps at Union Square, unsafe conditions put riders at risk. If you’ve been injured in a subway slip-and-fall, proving that negligent maintenance caused your accident is key to protecting your rights. Your case. Your future. Our priority.

Why Subway Slip-and-Fall Cases Are Complex

Unlike private property accidents, subway slip-and-fall cases involve public authorities like the MTA. This creates unique challenges:

• Shorter Deadlines: Claims against public agencies require filing a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident.
• Multiple Defendants: Responsibility may rest with the MTA, contractors, or cleaning companies.
• High Burden of Proof: Victims must show that negligent maintenance directly caused the hazard.

Without experienced legal support, victims often lose their chance to recover compensation.

Common Causes of Subway Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Unsafe conditions often include:

• Wet or slippery platforms from leaks, spills, or rainwater.
• Broken or cracked tiles.
• Poor lighting in stairwells or hallways.
• Malfunctioning escalators or elevators.
• Accumulated debris or trash.

These hazards are preventable with proper maintenance and inspection. When the MTA or its contractors fail in this duty, they may be held accountable.

Proving Negligence in a Subway Slip-and-Fall Case

To succeed in a subway slip-and-fall claim, you must prove:

1. Duty of Care: The MTA has a responsibility to maintain safe stations for riders.
2. Breach of Duty: The hazard was caused by negligent maintenance or failure to repair.
3. Notice: The MTA or its agents knew (or should have known) about the dangerous condition.
4. Causation: The unsafe condition directly led to your injury.
5. Damages: You suffered measurable harm, such as medical bills or lost wages.

Evidence may include:

• Surveillance footage (most major stations have cameras).
• Witness testimony from other riders.
• Maintenance and cleaning logs.
• Medical records documenting your injuries.

Local Context: High-Risk NYC Subway Stations

Slip-and-falls can happen anywhere, but busy or aging stations often see more accidents:

• Times Square–42nd Street: High foot traffic and frequent spills.
• Union Square–14th Street: Old staircases and heavy crowding.
• Grand Central–42nd Street: Slippery marble floors and escalator malfunctions.
• Brooklyn Atlantic Terminal: High-volume commuter hub with frequent maintenance issues.

If your accident occurred at one of these or another NYC station, Hill & Moin LLP can help identify the responsible party and venue, such as Bronx Supreme Court or Brooklyn Civil Court.

Steps to Take After a Subway Slip-and-Fall

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately — Even if your injuries seem minor.
2. Report the Accident to Station Staff — Create a record of the incident.
3. Take Photos of the Hazard — Capture the unsafe condition as soon as possible.
4. Collect Witness Information — Other commuters may support your claim.
5. Contact an Attorney Quickly — With only 90 days to file a Notice of Claim, time is critical.

CTA: Don’t wait—your future starts with one phone call. Speak with a trusted New York injury attorney at Hill & Moin LLP.

Why Hill & Moin LLP Is the Right Choice

Our team has extensive experience handling claims against public authorities like the MTA. We know the deadlines, evidence, and strategies required to succeed in these cases.

We provide:

• Aggressive investigation: Collecting surveillance, maintenance logs, and witness accounts.
• Expert resources: Medical professionals and safety experts to strengthen your case.
• Compassionate support: We understand that falls can cause lasting injuries and financial strain.
• Proven results: We’ve helped New Yorkers win compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Potential Compensation in a Subway Slip-and-Fall Case

If you’ve been injured in a subway station accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (emergency treatment, rehabilitation, ongoing care).
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering.
• Long-term disability or mobility challenges.

Every case is different, but Hill & Moin LLP fights for the maximum recovery our clients deserve.

Key Takeaways

• Subway slip-and-falls in NYC often involve the MTA and strict legal deadlines.
• Proving negligence requires strong evidence, including notice of the hazard.
• High-risk stations include Times Square, Union Square, Grand Central, and Atlantic Terminal.
• Victims deserve proactive representation that prioritizes their health and financial recovery.
• Hill & Moin LLP has the experience and dedication to build your case from the ground up.

Call to Action

When your health, livelihood, or family’s future is on the line, every decision matters. Call Hill & Moin LLP in New York today to schedule your confidential, no-obligation consultation. Speak with a trusted New York slip-and-fall attorney who will fight for your recovery and protect your future.