If you have been involved in a slip and fall accident on someone else’s property, you may want to stop and think about the circumstances, particularly if you are injured and facing a long recovery. Sure, accidents happen, but what happens if you are injured and suddenly you are unable to work? Are you responsible for paying your medical bills out of pocket? If you want to pursue compensation, you may want to know the best way to go about it.
When Is a Property Owner Responsible for a Slip and Fall Accident?
In the courts, slip and fall accidents are covered under the umbrella of “premises liability,” which means that the property owner was negligent in providing a safe space to work or conduct business.
In many cases, premises liability is a matter of maintenance on a piece of property. Unsafe conditions may include broken or missing handrails, uneven flooring or carpeting that is coming up and causing a trip hazard, potholes and cracked pavement or asphalt, cluttered aisles or walkways, leaking pipes or broken coolers that cause slippery floors, and dim or improper lighting.
What Evidence Is Needed to Prove Negligence?
When it comes to slip and fall accidents, it is typically best to gather as much information as possible before leaving the scene, as it is not uncommon for an owner or landlord to try to remove or replace a dangerous condition before they can be held liable. If possible, take pictures of where the accident occurred and make note of any video cameras that may have captured the incident. If possible, request that the footage be preserved or attempt to view it yourself. Also, if anyone witnessed the accident, be sure to get their name and phone number.
Most importantly, do not refuse treatment at the scene. Instead, you want to seek medical assistance as soon as possible to document the incident as well as your injuries.
Things to Refrain From After Your Slip and Fall
This includes apologizing or admitting fault, talking to an insurance claims adjuster, and posting about the incident on your social media channels. It is best to remain quiet until you have an opportunity to sort through the facts of your case with a trusted source.
What Is the Statute of Limitations on a Slip and Fall Accident?
The statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident to file a claim, so time is of the essence. Missing the deadline could mean missing your ability to seek compensation.
What Types of Compensation Am I Entitled to Receive?
Ultimately, compensation depends on the severity of the accident as well as the impact it has on your life. For instance, medical bills and lost wages can be just the beginning if your injury means you are laid up for months while you recover. Additional damages may include mental anguish, diminished quality of life, decreased earning capacity, pain and suffering, and any disfiguring scars or permanent damage that results from the accident.
Seek Assistance From the Hazlet Slip and Fall Accident Lawyers at Mikita & Roccanova, LLC
An accident is an unplanned event, but it does not have to be an unplanned expense. If you fell on someone else’s property as a result of their negligence, you do not have to shoulder the financial burden alone. Talk to the Hazlet slip and fall accident lawyers at Mikita & Roccanova, LLC about the best way to proceed to ensure you are taken seriously. Call 732-705-3363 or submit our online form to schedule a free consultation. With office locations in Hazlet and Highland Park, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients in Ocean County, Sussex County, Neptune, Middlesex County, and Pennsylvania.