Although they may seem mundane, slips and falls can impact your life in unprecedented ways. These accidents can occur when you lose footing due to hazardous conditions, leading to falls and injuries. They often happen in workplaces, public spaces, and even homes—anywhere that fails to maintain safe conditions.
Minor slip-and-fall accidents typically lead to minor bruises and cuts, but more severe cases may cause irreversible injuries. In fact, slips and falls were responsible for 33% of nonfatal injuries recorded in 2021. Seeking legal representation may lead to a favorable outcome when you settle or file a lawsuit if you find yourself a victim of these incidents.
4 Signs You Might Need a Lawyer
Recognizing when you need legal assistance is crucial to getting the compensation you deserve.
- You suffered from serious injuries
The injuries you get from slips and falls range from minor bruises to life-altering conditions. More specifically, you could suffer from:
- Cuts and abrasions
- Sprains
- Fractures
- Paralysis
- Death
The extent of your injuries may require extensive treatments and long-term care, all of which incur substantial expenses. Some falls may also cause emotional distress and trauma that need professional psychological help. An attorney ensures you’ll receive fair compensation to recuperate your losses and fund your rehabilitation.
- The property owner demonstrated negligence
Sometimes, slip-and-fall cases revolve around the property owner’s negligence. When people responsible for maintaining safe premises fail to fulfill their duty, you may hold them accountable for injuries.
For instance, a property owner may fail to address hazards like wet floors and uneven surfaces. They’re also liable if they fail to perform routine maintenance that could’ve prevented the hazard in the first place.
Establishing negligence requires thorough investigation and documentation, which can be challenging if you’re busy or suffer from debilitating injuries. However, an attorney can take on the job of demonstrating negligence to strengthen your case.
- You face challenges with insurance claims
Dealing with insurance companies can be tedious, especially when insurers attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims. Those after profit often use tactics to undervalue your injuries or shift blame onto you.
If you encounter such disputes during claims, it’s best to seek legal representation. A lawyer with experience in insurance law can negotiate a fair settlement reflecting the actual value of damages on your behalf. In effect, you can rest assured that your rights are secure and your best interests are at the helm of your case.
- There are liability disputes between parties
Slip-and-fall cases often involve multiple parties sharing liability for the accident. Let’s say you slipped on a puddle that a building tenant knowingly made and left. However, the establishment also has a clean-up crew responsible for maintaining the place. In this situation, you could argue that your injuries were the tenant’s and the crew’s fault. The accident wouldn’t have happened had they done their duties.
Determining the extent of each party’s liability is complicated because it involves navigating complex legal doctrines such as premises and vicarious liabilities. Working with a slip-and-fall lawyer ensures those accountable for negligence will answer to the court.
How to Find the Right Slip-and-Fall Lawyer
Researching the right lawyer is crucial when finding someone to represent your case. Fortunately, resources and legal directories are available for your reference. You may also take referrals from family, friends, and other attorneys.
Then, thoroughly review their credentials. Look for a slip-and-fall lawyer with a proven track record of handling similar cases and winning favorable outcomes for their clients. Communication is also essential; ensure the lawyer is responsive and can easily explain complex legal concepts. Some attorneys may even let you consult with them for free.
Because hiring a lawyer comes at a cost, it’s best to prepare your finances beforehand. Inquire about the attorney’s fee structure, such as whether they work on a contingency basis, where their fees depend on the outcome of your case. This arrangement alleviates the financial strain of upfront costs because you only pay legal fees if you receive compensation.
You may also incur additional costs like court and expert witness fees. A medical emergency fund for litigation can also help cushion your finances against hefty expenses.
By weighing these costs against the potential benefits of hiring a skilled lawyer, you can decide whether hiring a lawyer benefits your case and financial well-being.
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Have you recently experienced a slip-and-fall accident? If so, seeking legal advice is crucial to safeguard your rights and pursue just compensation. This article can help you identify the signs indicating the need for representation. Likewise, it’s best to take proactive steps that can help protect your interests.
You should also act swiftly to preserve evidence. Plus, prompt action can maximize the likelihood of a successful outcome. Conversely, delaying legal action may ruin your chances to obtain fair compensation and hold negligent parties accountable. Remember, time is of the essence—every moment counts in securing the support you need to build a strong case.
