When it comes to a slip and fall accident, everything can change in the flash of a second. Whether it is at the mall, in a store, on a sidewalk or in a parking lot, it is possible to fall just about anywhere. In the best of circumstances, a person who slips and falls only suffers from a minor injury. Sometimes, such an accident can be very serious, resulting in debilitating injuries that can have a long-term impact. If you have suffered a slip and fall accident, speaking with a personal injury attorney may be in your best interest to determine the right way to move forward.
Where Can a Slip and Fall Happen?
It is possible to suffer from a slip and fall injury anywhere. They can be the result of:
- Icy Sidewalks
- Damaged walkways
- Poor lighting on walkway
- Slippery floors from liquid spilt on the ground
- Object obstructing a walkway
Liability
Premise liability is the responsibility that a property owner has to keep their home, business or other safe from all hazards that could harm a person, resulting in injury. If a person does not ensure that their home is safe and someone is injured, if found negligent, they are liable for the injury. It will be important to prove that the property owner was responsible for the injuries that were received. Proving that the property owner is liable requires a specific criteria:
- You were an invited guest of the property
- The owner was aware that there was an unsafe issue on the property that wasn’t repaired.
- The injury that you sustained was due to the slip and fall accident that occurred on their property.
Collecting Damages
You may be able to collect damages if you are successful in proving that the person you filed a lawsuit against was negligent. There are a number of damages you may be able to collect which include:
- Lost wages
- Future wages (if you are unable to work for a period of time or ever again)
- Medical bills such as physical therapy, chiropractor, emergency room, etc.
- Pain and suffering
- Long term physical disabilities: For example you will have a limp for the rest of your life.
Every moment counts when you have experienced a slip and fall accident, it will be important to contact a personal injury attorney without delay such as the personal injury lawyer St. Paul MN locals turn to. With the experience of an attorney, you can ensure that your rights will be protected helping to ensure that you will be awarded the settlement that you are entitled to. Often a personal injury attorney will work on a contingency basis, meaning that you will not have to pay them for their services until your case is won. It will be important that you bring all documentation from your accident to your first consultation so that they can accurately assess your case.
Thanks to authors at Johnston Martineau PLLP for their insight into Personal Injury Law.