THE TRUTH ABOUT SLIPS, FALLS, AND PREMISES LIABILITY LAWSUITS

If you’ve been injured in a slip or fall accident on someone else’s property, you may be wondering if you have a case for your injuries. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of premises liability lawsuits to help you better understand your legal options.

Premises Liability Law 101 presented by San Diego’s Personal Injury Law Firm | Preovolos Lewin ALC.

Premises liability is an area of personal injury law that deals with accidents that occur on another person’s property. When you enter onto someone else’s property, whether it’s a store, restaurant, or private residence, the owner has a duty to keep their property safe and free from hazards that could cause harm to others. If they fail to do so and you are injured as a result, you may have grounds for a premises liability lawsuit.

Common Causes of Slips, Trips, and Falls

There are many different types of hazards that can lead to slips, trips, and falls on someone else’s property. Some common causes include:

  • Wet floors or spills that haven’t been cleaned up properly
  • Uneven surfaces or cracked pavement
  • Torn carpeting or loose rugs
  • Obstacles left in walkways
  • Poor lighting

Proving Negligence in a Premises Liability Lawsuit

To win a premises liability lawsuit, you must prove that the property owner was negligent in maintaining their property and that their negligence caused your injuries. This means showing that the owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition but failed to take action to fix it. For example, if a grocery store employee spilled a liquid on the floor and didn’t clean it up, causing you to slip and fall, you would need to show that the store had enough time to discover the spill and clean it up before you were injured.

Understanding Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims

In addition to proving negligence, you also need to make sure that your claim is filed within the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in your state. The statute of limitations is the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit after your injury occurs. If you wait too long to file your claim, you risk losing your right to compensation altogether.

Potential Damages You Can Recover From a Successful Premises Liability Claim

  • If you win your premises’ liability lawsuit, you may be able to recover several types of damages, including:
  • Medical expenses related to your injuries
  • Lost wages due to missed work
  • Pain and suffering caused by your injuries
  • Emotional distress resulting from your injuries

Conclusion

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, and when they do, they can cause serious injuries that require medical attention and time off work. If you’ve been injured in a slip or fall accident on someone else’s property, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can advise you on your legal rights and options. With careful preparation and a thorough understanding of premises liability law, you can increase your chances of winning your case and receiving the compensation you deserve.