Slip and Fall Accidents: How Premises Liability Law Protects Your Right to Compensation
There are a number of reasons someone may have a trip and fall accident. This includes hazards like:
Wet Floors
Unlit Stairwells
Spilled Substances
Uneven Sidewalks
If you've been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, you may be wondering what your legal options are. Premises liability law is a complex area of law that can be difficult to navigate on your own. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and options under the law and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Premises liability law generally covers accidents that occur on another person's property. If the property owner was negligent in maintaining the property or failed to warn visitors of potential hazards, they may be held liable for any injuries that occur as a result.
There are three main elements that must be proven in order to hold a property owner or occupier liable for a slip and fall accident:
The property owner or occupier owed you a duty of care. This means that they were required to take reasonable steps to ensure your safety while on the premises. (aka They “should have known” about the hazard.)
The property owner or occupier breached their duty of care. This means that they did not take reasonable steps to ensure your safety and as a result, you were injured in a slip-and-fall accident. (aka They knew there was a hazard and failed to fix it.)
The breach of the duty of care caused your injuries. This means that if it can be proven that the property owner or occupier’s negligence led to your accident, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries. (aka They caused a spill or other hazard.)
Property owners have a responsibility to keep their homes or businesses in a safe condition for all guests and visitors. If they fail to do so, then they may become liable and be required by law to provide compensation. Ways to gather evidence and support for your cause that the property owner is liable is to take photos, speak to witnesses and get their testimony, and get an accident report filled out.
There are three main types of slip and fall accidents: wet floor accidents, tripping accidents, and falling object accidents. Wet floor accidents are most common, and this can be from substances accidentally or unintentionally being spilled as well as intentionally such as from cleaning.
Slip and fall accidents can have devastating consequences, both financially and physically. If you or someone you know has experienced a slip and fall accident due to the negligence of a property owner, it is important to understand your rights under premises liability law. With the right knowledge and representation, victims of these types of accidents may be able to receive financial compensation for their losses. If you've been injured in any type of accident on another person's property, it's important to speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.