Slip and falls injure thousands across the country every year. While some of these incidents can be chalked up to sheer clumsiness, others are caused by negligent property owners who should be held accountable for failing to keep their premises safe. 

If you were hurt after slipping, tripping, or falling on someone else’s property, you probably have numerous questions running through your mind. In this article, we answer a few of the most common queries surrounding slip and fall claims:

Who Might Be Liable for the Accident?

Property owners and/or occupants in California have a responsibility to ensure that their premises are kept in a reasonably safe condition. In other words, they must regularly conduct inspections, repairs, and maintenance to make sure their property is clear of hazards, or warn visitors of on-site issues. For instance, if the floors will be wet during regular cleaning, any potential dangers should be adequately signposted.  

If a property owner failed to take these steps and you were subsequently injured, they could be held liable for any damages stemming from the incident. You will need to gather sufficient proof to demonstrate the property owner’s negligence such as photographs of the hazard, surveillance camera videos, eyewitness statements, police reports, and maintenance records. Ultimately, you must show that the property owner or occupier was aware—or should have been aware—of a hazard on their premises and failed to take sufficient steps to clear the danger from their property.

What Damages Might Be Available?

A trip, slip, or fall can lead to serious injuries such as brain trauma, spinal cord injuries, or broken bones. As a result, many victims incur astronomical medical bills and are left unable to work, sinking them deeper and deeper into the red. Thankfully, many of the losses stemming from a slip and fall may be recoverable, including: 

  • Medical bills, 
  • Lost income, 
  • Emotional distress, 
  • Pain and suffering,
  • Replacement services, 
  • Home and vehicle modifications, 
  • Loss of enjoyment in life, and 
  • Diminished earning potential. 

When Should I Call an Attorney?

After a serious fall, you may be wondering if it’s worth contacting a lawyer. While you could pursue compensation on your own, personal injury proceedings are notoriously tricky to navigate. Without an in-depth understanding of what lies ahead, it can be easy to make mistakes that might compromise your case.  

A skilled personal injury attorney can not only help guide you through the weeks ahead, but can also step in to handle the logistics of your case so that you can focus on your health. He or she can investigate the accident on your behalf, gathering the necessary evidence to support your claim. Additionally, a lawyer can represent you throughout proceedings, doing everything in their power to help you achieve a favorable outcome. 

Discuss Your Case with a California Slip and Fall Attorney 

Did you slip, trip, or fall on someone else’s property? Turn to the legal team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers to discuss your options.  

During the initial consultation we can answer your claims-related questions, discuss your situation, and explain how we might approach building your case. Dial 1-800-GO-HARRIS or head over to our contact page HERE to pencil in a free case review with a California slip and fall attorney.