Slip and fall accidents are unexpected. You walk through a shopping store or sidewalk, and the next thing you know, you have slipped and fallen on the ground. These accidents can cause more than just embarrassment. You can suffer injuries that result in pain, lost workdays, or costly medical expenses.
Being aware of your legal rights enables you to take the correct action and recover the compensation you are entitled to. In this article, we will discuss different aspects of filing a legal claim for your accident and steps you should take to ensure maximum compensation.
What Triggers a Slip and Fall Accident?
Slip and fall accidents typically happen due to hazardous property conditions. These involve wet flooring, uneven surfaces, damaged handrails, bad lighting, loose rugs, or not warning about dangers. Property owners are responsible for keeping their properties safe for all visitors. They can be held legally liable if they fail to notice a hazard, and you are liable to be compensated.
Do You Have a Legitimate Claim?
You might want to know if you have a legitimate legal claim. Here are some questions that you need to ask yourself:
- Did the owner of the property know about the danger?
- Did they neglect to repair the issue or warn visitors?
- Did the accident occur on another person’s property?
- Were you being responsible when you fell?
If the answer to these questions is yes, you most likely do have a personal injury claim. A lawyer can look over the information and assist you in establishing a solid case.
What Should You Do After a Fall?
Act quickly after the fall. Your actions can safeguard your health and make your legal case stronger. Some steps that you should take include:
- Getting a medical checkup: See a doctor and keep a record of your injuries. You should also keep a record of any prescriptions that you are given to treat any injuries as proof.Â
- Report the accident: Inform the property owner, manager, or supervisor of the accident immediately. If there is an available option, write down a formal complaint describing the accident and keep a copy for your record before submitting it to the supervisor.Â
- Collect evidence: Document the scene, your injuries, and the fall cause with photographs. These photographs would help you when you file a claim.Â
- Get witness information: Get names and phone numbers of anyone who witnessed the fall.
- Avoid making statements: Don’t take responsibility or make taped statements without an attorney.
All details count. You construct your case from records, photographs, and consistent reporting. These details can also help your lawyer assess your case and help with filing a claim that will grant you the highest compensation possible.
How Can an Injury Lawyer Assist Me?
Your personal injury lawyer knows the laws that can defend you. Your lawyer will investigate your case, interview witnesses, obtain your medical reports, and deal with the insurance companies. Most lawyers work on a contingency fee; you only pay the fees if the lawyer wins your case. Some legal components of your case include establishing whether:
- The property owner had a duty of care towards you, and whether they breached that duty in any way.Â
- Whether the breach of duty was a direct cause of your injury.
These legal components constitute the core of your case, and whether you can win your claim or not. If you are unsure of whether you are eligible to file a claim or get legal help, many firms, such as Walkup, Melodia, Kelly and Schoenberger offer free consultations. Get a consultation, discuss your case, and then decide if you want to pursue the legal route.
What Kind of Compensation Can You Recover?
Slip and fall accidents result in various losses. You can recover compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term disability
- Emotional distress
The amount varies based on your injuries and their effect on your daily life. Your attorney calculates a reasonable settlement. You can then decide whether you can agree on that settlement or if you have the opportunity to negotiate.
How Much Time Do You Have to Make a Claim?
Each state provides a time limit for when you can file a personal injury case. That time limit, which is known as the statute of limitations, is usually between one and three years. If you delay, you forfeit your right to sue. Beginning early can help you sustain your rights.
Endnote
Slip and fall injuries impose physical, financial, and emotional strain. You don’t have to fight alone. Understanding your rights gives you the power to act and seek justice. If you think another person’s negligence led to your injury, contact a personal injury attorney today. You deserve respect, support, and reasonable compensation for your injury, and you can get that by speaking up.
