Introduction
Slip and fall injuries are some of the most common types of accidents that can happen on someone else’s property. If you have suffered a slip and fall accident injury on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation through a premises liability claim. This article will discuss premises liability claims, the common causes of slip and fall injuries, and your rights as a victim of such an injury.
What is Premises Liability?
Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners responsible for accidents and injuries that occur on their property due to their negligence. To establish a premises liability claim, you must show that the property owner was negligent in maintaining their property and that this negligence caused your injury. Examples of negligent behavior can range from something as simple as not cleaning up spills to more severe issues like failing to repair damaged flooring.
It’s important to understand the duty of care is different for different categories of owners: If you are at an owner’s property for the owner’s benefit (i.e., a store you are invited to come and purchase a product), you are entitled to the highest standard of care by the owner in the upkeep of the property (you are considered an “invitee”). If you come to the property of a family/friend for social, non-commercial purposes, you are considered a “Licensee,” and the owner has a lesser standard than with invitees. The lowest level of care is for trespassers. A lawyer can explain the difference in duty of care for each.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip and fall injuries can happen for various reasons. Still, some common causes include wet or slippery floors, uneven or damaged flooring, and poorly maintained stairs or walkways. It’s important to note that not all slip-and-fall accidents will result in a successful premises liability claim. In order to establish negligence, you will need to show that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition that caused your injury.
Your Rights as a Victim of a Slip and Fall Injury
If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident on someone else’s property, you can seek compensation for your injuries. This compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In order to protect your rights, it’s essential to document the details of your accident, including the date, time, and location, as well as any witnesses or evidence that may support your claim.
Conclusion
Slip and fall injuries can result in serious injuries and can be caused by a variety of hazards on someone else’s property. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to compensation through a premises liability claim. By understanding the common causes of slip and fall injuries and your rights as a victim, you can take steps to protect yourself and seek the compensation you deserve.