According to recent statistics, slip and fall injuries account for about a million hospital visits each year. That’s 12% of all accidents involving falls, so it’s a pretty common issue that workers encounter.
Still, being involved in a slip and fall case is scary, and the injuries you receive can result in days (or even weeks) of missed work. Luckily, there are legal avenues you can take that will ensure that you don’t lose any money. In fact, if the company you work for was negligent, you could get a pretty big payout in a lawsuit.
Here, we’re going to talk about what exactly is meant by a slip and fall case and what steps to take if you’re involved in one.
What Is a Slip and Fall Case?
A slip and fall case is basically exactly what it sounds like- a lawsuit in which you sue due to an accident where you slipped and fell. You’ll be suing the owner of a property because of the unsafe conditions in which you fell. The money you sue for will be to cover medical bills and time off of work as well as to provide restitution for pain and suffering.
How Do You Know if Your Case Qualifies?
There are a few ways you can tell whether or not your situation is grounds for a slip and fall lawsuit. You’re going to need to prove negligence and liability on the part of the property owner, meaning that there must be measures that they could have taken that would have resulted in you not falling.
You’re also going to need to prove that you didn’t cause the accident on your own. Many defendants in slip and fall cases argue that you’re to blame for the accident, and if they prove this, your case will be ruined. Ask your lawyer for some ways to counteract these arguments. There may even be concrete evidence like surveillance tapes.
What Are Your Legal Rights?
As with any lawsuit, you have the legal right to consult with an attorney and come up with a plan of action. With the help of this knowledgeable professional, you will be able to come up with a case that makes sense and can persuade a judge.
You also will want to read up on Premises Liability, the legal matters that pertain to what owners are responsible for doing to maintain their property. Knowing about this can help you to note issues at the location where you slipped that the property owner had an obligation to notice.
Speak With a Lawyer
While slip and fall cases are common, they shouldn’t be happening to anyone. If you’re the victim of unsafe conditions, you absolutely have the right to demand restitution.
Now that you know whether you have a strong slip and fall case, it’s time to talk with a legal professional about the next step. Contact us with any questions you may have. Feel free to tell us a bit more about your situation and begin the process of creating a case.
Good luck!