Slip and fall accidents can occur anywhere, from grocery stores and restaurants to private residences and office buildings. When these accidents happen due to hazardous conditions on someone else’s property, the property owner or occupier may be held liable for the injuries sustained by the victim. At Rosemary Odinga, we specialize in representing individuals who have been injured in slip and fall accidents, and we’re here to help you understand premises liability law. Here’s what you need to know:
- Duty of Care: Property owners and occupiers have a legal duty to maintain safe premises for visitors and guests. This duty of care requires them to take reasonable measures to prevent hazards and ensure that their property is reasonably safe for those who enter it.
- Types of Hazards: Slip and fall accidents can occur due to various hazards, including wet floors, uneven surfaces, loose carpets or rugs, inadequate lighting, and debris or obstacles in walkways. Property owners must promptly address these hazards or provide warnings to visitors about potential dangers.
- Notice: In premises liability cases, proving negligence typically requires demonstrating that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition that caused the accident. This may involve showing evidence of prior complaints, inspection reports, or a pattern of negligence on the part of the property owner.
- Visitor Classification: The legal status of the visitor at the time of the accident can affect the property owner’s liability. Visitors are generally classified as invitees, licensees, or trespassers, with different standards of care owed to each category. Invitees are owed the highest duty of care, while trespassers are owed the least.
- Comparative Negligence: In some slip and fall cases, the victim’s own negligence may be a factor in causing the accident. Under comparative negligence laws, the compensation awarded to the injured party may be reduced based on their degree of fault for the accident.
- Damages: Victims of slip and fall accidents may be entitled to compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and disability or disfigurement. An experienced personal injury attorney can help assess the full extent of your damages and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
- Legal Recourse: If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident due to the negligence of a property owner or occupier, you have the right to pursue legal recourse. Consulting with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney is essential for understanding your legal rights and options for seeking compensation.
At Rosemary Odinga, we have extensive experience representing individuals who have been injured in slip and fall accidents. Our dedicated team is committed to holding negligent property owners accountable and helping our clients recover the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free accident related resources. We’re here to advocate for your rights and help you get back on your feet.