Frequently asked questions
A few things you may want to know.
Quick answers about scope, timing, records, and working with HUB Engineering.
Questions and answers
What types of cases does HUB Engineering investigate?
HUB concentrates on slip, trip, and fall cases; wet walking surfaces; snow and ice conditions; sidewalks, ramps, stairs, parking areas, and premises conditions; construction accidents; New York Labor Law construction claims; and bicycle, e-bike, and scooter incidents. Selected product- and equipment-related cases are evaluated individually.
Can HUB evaluate a case before a lawsuit is filed?
Yes. HUB accepts both pre-suit and litigated cases. Early review can help identify technical issues, preserve changing site conditions, determine what records should be requested, and assess whether an inspection or testing should be scheduled. HUB still confirms conflicts, scope, and availability before accepting the engagement.
Where are HUB engineers licensed?
HUB has Professional Engineer licensure in New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. The appropriate engineer and any jurisdiction-specific requirements are confirmed during the case review.
Does HUB perform walkway slip-resistance testing?
When technically appropriate, HUB performs wet walkway traction testing using validated instrumentation and applicable test methods. Results are interpreted together with the surface condition, contamination, maintenance practices, weather, photographs, and other incident evidence. Testing is recommended only when it can meaningfully address the disputed technical issues.
What should counsel submit for an initial review?
Start with the incident date and location, the names of the involved parties for a conflict check, a brief description of what occurred, available photographs or video, and any known inspection, discovery, or court deadline. Pleadings, discovery responses, deposition transcripts, incident reports, maintenance records, contracts, weather records, drawings, and prior inspection material can be added when available. You do not need to wait until every record has been collected before contacting HUB.
Can a paralegal or legal assistant submit the case?
Yes. A paralegal or other authorized staff member may contact HUB with the initial case information. Call or email HUB to arrange the review and a secure method for transferring supporting files. Retainer agreements and any required attorney signatures are coordinated directly with HUB; online portal and signing services are not currently available.
Can HUB assist with an urgent inspection or evidence-preservation issue?
Yes, subject to availability. Identify any imminent repair, demolition, weather event, loss of access, inspection deadline, deposition, expert-disclosure date, or trial date in the case submission and call HUB for time-sensitive requests. Scheduling is confirmed by HUB staff.
Does contacting HUB about a case retain the firm?
No. An inquiry does not create an expert-client relationship or confirm that HUB has accepted the case. An engagement begins only after HUB completes its conflict, scope, and availability review and the required retainer agreement is executed and accepted.
How does a client arrange a retainer agreement or receive case documents?
Contact HUB directly to coordinate the current retainer agreement, required signatures, case updates, and secure document delivery. Client portal access and online retainer signing are not currently available on this website.
What can a forensic engineering assignment include?
The scope is tailored to the technical questions in the case. It may include document and photograph review, a site inspection, measurements, photographic documentation, wet slip-resistance testing when appropriate, video analysis, code and standards research, engineering analysis, a written report, demonstrative exhibits, consultation with counsel, and testimony.
How long does an inspection or report take?
Timing depends on site access, the volume and completeness of the records, the need for testing or additional research, and the applicable deadlines. HUB confirms scheduling and anticipated delivery after reviewing the scope. Please identify all known deadlines at intake and notify HUB promptly if one changes.
How are fees, retainers, and payments handled?
The written retainer agreement identifies the agreed scope, fee structure, and payment requirements. Clients may use the available online payment methods or indicate that payment will be mailed by check to HUB's Paramus office. Contact HUB directly to confirm an invoice, balance, or payment instructions.
Does HUB provide deposition and trial testimony?
Yes. HUB engineers provide deposition, hearing, mediation, and trial support when required by the engagement. Testimony and preparation are coordinated separately so counsel can address scheduling, document updates, and payment requirements in advance.