Questions about Slip and Fall Accidents
What is a slip and fall accident?
A slip and fall accident occurs when you get injured on someone else's property, generally as a result of tripping or slipping on a hazardous surface. Each year, thousands of people are injured as a result of slip and fall accidents.
Who is held liable in slip and fall accidents?
Generally, the owner of the premises has an obligation to maintain safe conditions. When hazardous conditions are unavoidable, the owner must provide ample warning of the dangers to avoid accidents. Therefore, in most cases, the owner will be responsible for injuries caused on his premises.
What is comparative negligence?
In comparative negligence, the fault of the person injured is considered as well as the fault of the owner of the premises when damages are assessed. If you are found to be partially at fault for the injury, your damages may be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault in the incident.
Who pays for my medical expenses in a slip and fall accident?
Most business owners have insurance policies covering slip and fall injuries. If you are injured at a private residence, the owner's insurance will cover your expenses if his homeowner's insurance policy has the appropriate coverage. If not, your insurance will need to cover your expenses and you can then sue the homeowner to recover your costs.
What kind of damages can I recover in a slip and fall case?
You can generally recover damages similar to those in other personal injury cases:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Potential future medical expenses in the case of a serious injury
Do I need an attorney in a slip and fall case?
If your injuries are very minor, you may be able to settle the case without a lawyer. However, in most cases, you will want to hire an experienced slip and fall attorney. In most cases, the premises owner's insurance company will either try to deny responsibility or offer you a settlement that is vastly lower than you deserve. Having an attorney on your side will help ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
Please contact us today to find an experienced slip and fall injury lawyer in your area.
