Can You Sue After a Slip and Fall?
A slip, trip, or fall accident may result in serious injuries that require an emergency room visit. Even if you suffer only minor bruises, you should schedule a medical checkup to rule out bone fractures or brain injuries. You can also consult an experienced slip and fall lawyer to explore potential legal actions against the party responsible for the accident. Here are some reasons to sue after a slip, trip, or fall accident:
Establishing Liability
The law requires parties found liable for slip and fall accidents to cover damages caused by the incident. Slip accidents are usually caused by negligence and breach of duty of care by a property owner. Landlords, restaurant and mall owners, and municipalities must maintain safe environments for property visitors. Restaurants, malls, and other businesses should clean spills immediately and provide warnings for wet or slippery floors. Failing to take such actions increases the risk of guests slipping and falling, resulting in a breach of legal duty.
If a property owner’s negligence caused your slip accident, you can sue them for your physical and financial damages. Suing involves working with an experienced slip and fall lawyer to establish who is responsible for the accident and damages. Lawyers gather evidence to prove that the defendant was responsible for maintaining safe surroundings. They also use evidence to show how the property owner breached this duty and that their negligence led to your accident and injuries.
Recouping Damages
Slips and falls can cause injuries like muscle sprains and strains, bone fractures, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and internal organ damage. Minor bruises and lacerations may heal with minimal treatment, while severe accidents can leave you permanently disabled. Spinal cord and brain injuries usually require long-term care and may keep you away from work indefinitely. You should visit a doctor immediately after your accident for a comprehensive medical evaluation. Keep all medical reports and bills for your lawyer to review when calculating your settlement.
Lawyers can help you recoup financial losses caused by the accident. The law allows you to claim current and future medical costs and lost wages, including salary raises. You can also claim damages for pain and suffering and psychological trauma caused by post-traumatic stress. Your family can sue the liable party for the emotional distress they suffer as a result of your life-changing injuries.
Appealing Denied Claims
Your insurance provider must offer payments for covered liabilities, such as medical costs, lost income, and other damages. The insurance company appoints someone to investigate the case and determine the appropriate settlement amount based on their assessment. In some cases, insurance companies offer low settlements or deny the claim. Denials may stem from disputed liability or comparative negligence. You can appeal denied claims by hiring a lawyer to represent and protect your legal rights.
The lawyer handles all communications and negotiations with the insurance company to get you a fair settlement for your damages. If they don’t reach an agreement with the insurer, they can take your case to trial for a judge or jury to make the final decision. The lawyers offer legal representation and present your case during trial, providing evidence to support your claim. They also consult doctors and other medical professionals for an accurate prognosis of your healthcare needs to claim settlement for current and future treatment needs. Lawyers aim to compile undeniable evidence proving your innocence and tying third-party negligence to the accident, injuries, and damages.
Speak To an Experienced Slip and Fall Lawyer
Lawyers understand the laws related to slip, trip, and fall accidents, allowing them to help you file a strong case against responsible parties. Whether you slip at a supermarket or on public property owned by the city, lawyers will work with liable parties and insurance companies to protect your rights and interests. Contact an experienced slip and fall lawyer today to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options.