Understanding Slip & Fall Claims

Reiad Khouri • Oct 24, 2022

When it comes to premises liability law, one of the most common types of cases filed here in St. Louis, Missouri are slip and fall claims. Many people are injured yearly in accidents due to slippery or uneven surfaces, and these claims can be complicated to navigate. 


If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, it's important to understand your legal rights and options to make the right decision for your case. In this post, you will find some of the most frequently asked questions about slip and fall claims and information about how to proceed if you have been injured.


What are slip and fall claims?

A slip and fall claim is a type of personal injury claim that arises when someone is injured due to a dangerous or slippery surface. These claims can be filed against private property owners and businesses and can be complex to litigate.


A variety of injuries can result from a slip and fall accident, and the severity of the injuries will depend on the circumstances of the fall. Some common injuries include broken bones, concussions, back and neck injuries, and soft tissue damage.


If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, you may be able to make a claim against the person or business responsible for the property where the accident occurred. In order to succeed in such a claim, you will need to show that the property owner was negligent in their duty to keep the premises safe. Common examples of negligence include failure to clean up spills, repair broken sidewalks, and warn visitors of potential hazards. If you can prove that the property owner was aware of the hazard and failed to take action, you may be able to recover damages for your injuries.


What steps should you take after a slip or fall?

If you have been involved in a slip and fall accident, there are a few important steps that you should take in order to protect your legal rights:


1. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you don't think you're injured

If you've suffered a slip or fall accident, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you don't think you're injured. This is because some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussion, may not immediately appear. Any delay in seeking treatment could worsen your condition and impact your legal case if you decide to pursue one. In addition, seeking prompt medical care will provide your lawyer with documentation of your injuries that will be essential for proving your case. So if you've been in a slip or fall accident, don't delay getting the medical attention you need.


2. Gather evidence from the scene of the accident

After you have been involved in a slip or fall, gathering evidence from the accident scene is important. This evidence can help to establish what caused the accident and who may be at fault. For example, if you slipped on a wet floor, taking photographs of the wet floor and any warning signs can help show that the property owner was aware of the hazard and did not take steps to mitigate it. Similarly, if you fell down a set of stairs, taking pictures of the stairs can help to show that they were in disrepair and posed a danger to anyone using them. In short, gathering evidence from the scene of an accident is an important step in protecting your legal rights and ensuring that you receive compensation for your injuries.


3. Contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your case

The likelihood of winning slip and fall claims depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you decide whether to seek legal counsel. For example, if the accident occurred on someone else's property, it is possible that the property owner may be liable for your injuries. Similarly, if the accident was caused by a dangerous condition on the property, such as a broken step or a slippery floor, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Even if the property owner is not legally responsible for your injuries, they may still be willing to negotiate a financial settlement. Contacting a personal injury lawyer can give you a better understanding of your legal rights and options.


4. File a claim with the negligent party or their insurance company

Finally, if your personal injury lawyer determines you have a case to make a claim against the negligent party, you should file the claim either directly with them or with their insurance company. If you have been injured in a slip or fall that wasn't your fault, you deserve to be compensated for the financial, physical, and emotional toll it has taken on you.


What evidence do you need to support your personal injury claim?

If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident, there are a few key pieces of evidence that can help to support your claim:


Evidence that establishes liability

In order to prove that someone else is liable for your injuries, you will need to gather evidence that establishes who was responsible for the accident. This can include evidence from the scene, witness statements, and relevant legislation.


Medical evidence

Medical evidence is essential for proving the extent of your injuries and the costs of your medical care. This can include doctors' reports, hospital records, and receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses.


Evidence of personal costs incurred

You may be entitled to lost wages if you have missed work due to your injuries. However, you must provide evidence of your lost earnings, such as pay stubs or tax returns. You may also be able to recover other expenses, such as the cost of therapy or home care.

Who can help you with your personal injury claim for a slip and fall accident?

If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident, you may be wondering who can help you with your personal injury claim. The answer is an experienced and qualified personal injury attorney. A personal injury attorney will know how to investigate your accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. They will also be familiar with the ins and outs of the legal system, and they will fight diligently to get you the compensation you deserve. If you're looking for help with a personal injury claim in St. Louis, Missouri, get in touch for a free consultation.

09 Apr, 2024
Slip and fall accidents are seemingly innocuous events that can lead to life-altering injuries. Research indicates that over a million individuals are hurt in falls each year. The aftermath of such an accident often involves medical bills, lost wages, and complex legal landscapes. For Missouri residents, the process of selecting an attorney to represent their slip and fall case is daunting, yet crucial for securing the compensation and justice they deserve. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps for finding the best slip and fall attorney in Missouri. This will not only safeguard your legal rights but also ensure that your case is handled by a professional with the necessary experience and expertise. The Role of a Slip and Fall Attorney Before we go any further, it’s important to understand the role of a slip and fall attorney. Their primary responsibilities include: Investigating the circumstances of your fall to determine fault Gathering evidence to support your case, such as medical records and witness statements Negotiating with insurance companies to achieve fair settlements Representing you in court if a settlement can't be reached Their goal is to help you: Seek compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering Hold negligent property owners accountable for maintaining unsafe conditions Your attorney acts as your advocate through the entire complex legal process, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected. The Initial Consultation A significant step in hiring a slip and fall attorney is the initial consultation. This is a meeting where you can discuss the details of your accident and your attorney can evaluate the merits of your case. It is your opportunity to assess whether the attorney is a good fit for you and your situation. In preparation for the meeting: Compile a summary of the accident, including where, when, and how it occurred Gather any relevant documentation, such as medical records or incident reports During the consultation, expect to: Tell your story Ask questions about the attorney’s experience and approach to slip and fall cases Discuss fees and payment structures Experience and Track Record When it comes to choosing an attorney, experience matters. A seasoned attorney will have a track record of success in handling slip and fall cases and will be familiar with the nuances of state-specific laws and regulations. Key things to look for when evaluating experience include: The number of slip and fall cases the attorney has handled The rate of success in obtaining favorable settlements or verdicts Familiarity with the court system and judges in your area You should also consider the specific type of experience the attorney has. For example: Have they successfully represented clients with similar injuries or circumstances to yours? Are they able to prove negligence on the part of the property owner? Understanding Fees and Costs Legal fees and costs can be a major concern for slip and fall victims, especially if they are facing financial hardship due to the accident. Fortunately, many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis for slip and fall cases. This means they only get paid if you win your case. For this reason, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of: The attorney’s fee structure Any costs or expenses that may not be covered by the contingency fee agreement Make sure to discuss these details during the initial consultation to avoid any surprises down the line. A Word on Reputation and Integrity Trust is fundamental in the attorney-client relationship. Investigate the reputation of any attorney you’re considering. Online reviews, referrals, and bar association records can provide insight into their standing in the legal community. Look for an attorney who is: Respected by their peers Known for their honesty and integrity Committed to keeping you informed and involved in your case Reputation and integrity are not just about good character; they are also indicative of an attorney’s ability to effectively represent your interests. Communicating Your Needs An attorney who is a good communicator can make the legal process less stressful and more understandable. They should be approachable and responsive to your questions and concerns. When assessing an attorney’s communication style, consider: How they explain the legal process and your rights How available they seem to be Whether they encourage open communication about your case Good communication is a two-way street. Be prepared to be an engaged participant in your case, asking for clarification when needed. Selecting a slip and fall attorney is a significant decision that should not be rushed. Take the time to explore multiple options and make an informed choice. When doing so, remember to: Verify the attorney’s licensure and accreditation Consider their geographical location and the convenience of their office Discuss the estimated timeline for your case Assess their network of resources, including expert witnesses Determine whether you feel comfortable with the attorney personally Remember, the attorney you choose will play a vital role in the outcome of your case. By being thorough and thoughtful in your selection process, you can maximize your chances of a favorable resolution to your slip and fall claim. With the right legal counsel, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that your case is in capable hands. We can help you every step of the way!
15 Mar, 2024
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We have all heard of unfortunate incidents that occur in different workplaces across the state of Missouri. Despite the strict rules and regulations in place to ensure safety, accidents still happen occasionally. Workplace accidents can cause devastating consequences to employees and can also have a significant impact on the business. This blog will help Missouri residents understand workplace accidents and the steps to take in case of an accident.  1. Causes of Workplace Accidents: To avoid a workplace accident, it is vital to understand the causes. Some of the common causes of workplace accidents include slip and falls, machinery malfunctions, and electrical accidents. Other causes include inadequate training, lack of personal protective equipment, and miscommunication. Employers and employees should work together to identify these hazards and eliminate them. 2. Missouri Workers Compensation: Missouri law requires employers to have workers’ compensation insurance to ensure that injured employees receive the compensation they deserve. Workers’ compensation offers payments for medical bills, lost wages, and disability caused by on-the-job injuries. This law applies to all employees, including part-time and full-time employees. 3. Steps to take after a Workplace Accident: In case of a workplace accident, you must take specific steps to protect your rights and interests. Firstly, report the accident to your employer and seek medical attention immediately. Ensure that you document all the injuries sustained and any medical treatment received. After receiving medical attention, inform your employer that you intend to file a workers’ compensation claim, and consult an experienced lawyer to guide you. 4. The Role of a Lawyer in a Workplace Accident Claim: After suffering a workplace injury, it is advisable to consult an experienced attorney, preferably one specializing in workers’ compensation claims. An attorney can review your claim and file it before the deadline expires. The lawyer can also represent you during the appeals process if your claim is denied or underpaid. 5. Prevention is Key: In the long run, the best way to avoid workplace accidents is to prevent them from occurring. Employers should prioritize safety in the workplace by implementing safety measures, training employees on safety procedures, and providing personal protective equipment. Employees should also report any safety hazards they notice to their employer and take personal measures to remain safe in the workplace. Workplace accidents can be devastating and life-changing. It is crucial to understand the causes, Missouri workers’ compensation laws, steps to take after an accident, and the role of an attorney in compensation claims. Prevention is the best way to avoid workplace accidents, and Missouri employers and employees must work together to maintain a safe environment.
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