Your Rights After A Fall Injury
A fall injury, often referred to as a slip and fall injury, can happen quickly and leave lasting effects. Whether it occurred in a grocery store, on a sidewalk, or at someone’s home, you may be left with medical bills, lost income, and serious pain. When the property owner or manager failed to maintain a safe environment, you could have a legal claim. While each situation is different, knowing your rights can help you take the next steps. If you or a loved one has been unfortunately injured, a slip and fall lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help determine if you have a valid claim.
Our friends at Culpepper Law Group discuss what fall victims need to know when dealing with these types of injuries and claims.
Common Places Where Fall Injuries Occur
Fall injuries can happen in many places, but some areas carry a higher risk. Stores, restaurants, apartment buildings, and sidewalks are all common sites. Wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or loose handrails often play a role. In each case, it’s the responsibility of the property owner or manager, and in some situations, the tenant, to address hazards in a reasonable timeframe.
It’s not just commercial properties that carry this responsibility. Private homeowners and public agencies can also be held accountable if their property causes injury due to poor maintenance or unsafe conditions. Examples of when a public agency may be liable is when people trip while walking on public sidewalks or stairs that are in need of repair.
What Premise Liability Covers
Premise liability is the area of law that deals with injuries occurring on someone else’s property. Property owners are expected to keep their premises safe for guests, customers, and sometimes even trespassers. If they knew—or should have known—about a hazard and didn’t fix it, they may be legally responsible.
In a fall injury claim, you’ll need to show that the owner’s failure to address the risk caused your injury. Documentation, including photos of the scene, medical reports, and witness statements, can help strengthen your claim.
What To Do After A Slip And Fall
If you are injured in a slip and fall, even if you do not think your injuries are serious or you do not want to be a bother, it’s important to get medical attention as soon as possible. This is important for your health as well as for building a record of your injury in the event you need to seek compensation to pay for expenses that you have because of your injuries such as medical bills and loss of wages. Report the incident to the property owner or manager, and ask for a copy of the incident report if one is made.
It’s also wise to take photos of the area where you fell, including any hazards like wet floors or broken steps. It’s important to take the photos as soon as possible in case the area and issue that caused your fall is fixed. If anyone saw the incident, ask for their contact information in case their statement is needed later. Keeping records of medical visits, expenses, and missed work can help support your case.
When To Speak With A Lawyer
If you’ve suffered a serious injury or the property owner is denying responsibility, it’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer who handles these types of claims. They can evaluate the situation and explain your legal options. Often, these cases involve negotiations with insurance companies, and having representation can make a difference.
A lawyer can also help make sure your claim is filed within the required deadline, called the statute of limitations, which varies depending on the location and type of property involved.
Conclusion
Slip and fall injuries can lead to more than just physical pain—they can impact your ability to work, care for your family, and manage day-to-day life. If this is something you are dealing with, a slip and fall attorney can answer your questions and give you guidance as to what your options are.