Plenty of things can cause slip and fall accidents. It’s up to those who own or manage a property to keep the area free from such hazards when other people are invited onto the property. If the property is dangerous for guests, then the property owner should be held accountable. Our Monmouth County supermarket accident attorneys can help fall victims with that.
What Can Cause Slip and Fall Accidents?
Many potential dangers that can lead to slip and fall accidents. Sometimes an accident is just an accident, but sometimes a fall and someone’s injuries could have been avoided if a property owner was more responsible. They should be on the lookout for potential hazards like:
- Wet floors
- Damaged flooring, walkways, or stairs
- Broken or missing handrails
- Escalator or elevator issues
- Potholes or cracked pavement
- Loose mats, rugs, or floorboards
- Debris or clutter blocking walkways
- Poor lighting
- Cords, cables, and similar hazards
When something that could pose a danger to guests is spotted, it should be dealt with. If it’s not, the property owner should be held accountable for their negligence.
Can Victims Sue For Damages After Slip and Fall Accidents?
Victims can sue after slip and fall accidents because the property owner owes them a “duty of care.” They were invited onto a property so it should have been safe. If they got hurt, they should receive compensation that can help make up for things like medical expenses and pain and suffering.
How Long Do I Have to Pursue Legal Action?
You have two years to file a lawsuit after an accident, but we recommend suing as soon as possible. The faster you act, the easier it can be to secure vital evidence, like surveillance footage. If you file after the statute of limitations expires, your case is just going to be thrown out of court.
What If The Defendant Tries to Blame Me For the Accident?
It is possible. A defendant could try to argue that you were not paying attention and fell due to an obvious hazard. Maybe they’ll say you ignored signs or warnings or went somewhere that you weren’t supposed to. This can complicate matters because being found partly to blame for an accident can reduce your settlement amount.
Let’s say you win $200,000, but the jury finds you partly responsible for your own injuries because you were looking at your cell phone at the time of your accident. You’re 20% to blame for the fall so you get only 80% of your settlement, $160,000. We can defend you from accusations of wrongdoing so that you keep more of your settlement.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
When you are ready to pursue compensation and hold a negligent party accountable, we’ll be ready to assist you. Contact the Wilton Law Firm and ask about our free case consultations. There’s no obligation, just the chance to learn more about your legal options and the potential value of your case.