Slip and fall accidents are a common occurrence across the world, and they can range from minor slips to more serious falls. While some of these accidents may result in minor scrapes and bruises, they can also lead to more serious injuries and even death.
Regardless of the cause, slips and falls can have serious consequences. In many cases, the person may suffer from broken bones, sprains, and other injuries that require medical treatment.
Sometimes, the person may suffer more serious or long-term injuries, such as head trauma or spinal cord injuries. In the most severe cases, a slip-and-fall accident can even be fatal.
In this article, let’s take a closer look at slip-and-fall accidents and how to deal with them in Texas.
Navigating a Slip and Fall Claim Accident in Texas
Slip and fall accidents can be incredibly hazardous and can cause serious injuries. If you’ve been involved in a slip and fall accident in Texas, you may be wondering how to navigate the claims process. Understanding the legalities of a slip and fall claim in Texas can help you pursue the compensation you need to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
To start, it’s important to know that Texas is a “fault” state when it comes to personal injury claims. This means that the person liable for your slip and fall accident must be identified and held responsible for your damages. The person or business at fault can be held liable for your damages, such as medical bills and lost wages if it was found that they were negligent in some way.
It is also important to note that Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for filing a slip and fall claim. This means that you must file your claim within two years of the date of your accident, or you may lose your legal rights to pursue compensation.
How to Prove a Slip and Fall Claim
To prove negligence in a slip and fall claim, you must be able to demonstrate that the property owner or occupier was aware of the hazardous condition that caused your accident and failed to take action to repair it. You must also show that the property owner or occupier should have known about the hazardous condition.
To determine whether or not the property owner or occupier was liable, you must be able to demonstrate that a hazardous condition caused the fall that they had knowledge of or should have had knowledge of. This can include wet floors, ice, objects in walkways, and broken stairs.
It’s also essential to have evidence of your slip and fall accident. This can include photographs, medical records, and witness statements. Additionally, it would be best to keep receipts for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with your accident. This evidence can be invaluable in proving your claim.
Finally, it’s important to speak to an experienced slip-and-fall attorney who can help you assess your case and determine the best course of action. A qualified attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence to prove negligence and help you choose the fair amount of compensation you should pursue in your claim.
Is the Owner Automatically Responsible for Someone’s Injuries When it Happens on their Property?
Unfortunately, when it comes to accidents such as these, it’s important to consider who was at fault and whether the property owner could be held liable.
In many cases, a property owner is responsible for a slip and fall accident that occurs on their property. Property owners must keep their premises safe and free of hazards that could lead to accidents. If a property owner is found to have failed in this duty, then they can be held responsible for any resulting injury.
A property owner may be responsible for common hazards, including wet floors, loose rugs, broken stairs, and other obstacles that can cause a person to trip or slip. To determine if a property owner is responsible for an injury, it’s essential to look at the facts of the case.
For example, was the hazard that caused the accident something the property owner should have known about? If so, the property owner can be held liable for any resulting injury. It’s also important to consider if the property owner took any steps to address the hazard or if they had ample time to do so before the accident occurred.
If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident on someone else’s property, it’s important to seek legal advice to determine if the property owner can be held responsible. An experienced attorney can review the facts of your case and advise you on your rights and legal options.
What are the Common Causes of Slip And Fall Accidents?
Wet or Slippery Surface
One of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents is wet or slippery surfaces. When floors, sidewalks, or any other walking surface becomes wet or slippery, they can become a hazard to people walking on them. This can be caused by various things, such as rain, snow, spilled liquids, or even something as small as a wet spot on the floor.
Uneven Surface
Uneven surfaces are another common cause of slip and fall accidents. When walking surfaces have large cracks or have become uneven over time, they can be dangerous for people walking on them. This can be caused by things such as tree roots, construction, or even the natural wear and tear of the surface.
Clutter and Debris
Clutter and debris on the floor can also be a cause of slip-and-fall accidents. When items such as boxes, cords, or other items are left on the floor, they can become a tripping hazard for people walking on them. This can be especially hazardous in warehouses, office buildings, and retail stores where these items are commonly found.
Poor Lighting
Slip and fall accidents can also be caused by poor lighting. People can easily miss obstacles on the floor or uneven surfaces when walking areas need to be properly lit. Even something as small as a step can become hazardous if it is not properly lit.
Understanding the common causes of slip and fall accidents can help you prevent them from happening in the first place. If you notice any of these hazards, it is important to take action quickly to ensure everyone stays safe.
The Bottom Line
Slip and fall accidents can be serious, and working with lawyers is essential to get what you deserve. An experienced slip-and-fall lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
AK Law Firm helps individuals and their families receive financial compensation for personal injuries and continue forward with their lives. Our personal injury lawyers are committed to helping you receive the compensation you deserve. We only charge when we win the case. If you’re looking for accident lawyers in Houston, we can help you. Contact us today for a consultation.