Slip and fall accidents lead to injuries, leaving victims with significant medical bills, lost wages, and other financial burdens. If you've been hurt in a slip and fall incident on someone else's property in Montgomery, you may be entitled to compensation.
At Krebs Law, LLC, our experienced legal team is dedicated to helping victims get the recompense they deserve. As your Montgomery slip and fall lawyer, we are here to guide you through every step of your case.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents happen when someone trips or falls in a hazardous condition on a person's property. These incidents can happen anywhere, from grocery stores and restaurants to sidewalks and private homes.
Common causes include wet floors, poor lighting, uneven surfaces, and loose carpeting. When such accidents happen, the property owner may be held responsible if it can be proven that they failed to maintain a safe environment.
Premises Liability Claim
If a property owner knew or should've been aware of a dangerous condition and did not address it, they can be held liable or responsible for any damages. This legal responsibility extends to residential and commercial property owners, including business owners who invite the public onto their premises.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents could happen for many reasons, many of which are preventable. Some common causes include:
- Wet Floors: Spills, leaks, or recently cleaned floors that aren't properly marked with warning signs can lead to slip and fall accidents.
- Poor Lighting: Inadequate lighting will make it difficult to spot hazards, increasing the fall risk.
- Uneven Surfaces: Cracked sidewalks, loose tiles, or uneven flooring can cause trips and falls.
- Loose Carpeting: Unsecured rugs or carpets that bunch up can create a tripping hazard.
- Cluttered Walkways: Obstacles left in hallways or aisles can lead to falls.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall
If you are in slip and fall incident, taking the necessary steps to ensure your legal rights is important. Here's what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Your health should be your top priority. Even if your injuries aren't immediately apparent, it's crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some fall injuries, such as head injuries or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away. A medical professional will assess your condition the right way. They will document your injuries and important evidence in your slip and fall case.
- Report the Accident: Let the property or business owner know the accident happened. Document the incident and get a copy of the accident report. The report proves that the accident occurred and that the property owner was aware of the dangerous condition.
- Gather Evidence: If you are ble, take pictures of the accident scene, including the hazard that made your fall. Get contact information from any witnesses who saw the incident happen. Their testimony could be necessary to support your premises liability claim.
- Contact a Montgomery Slip and Fall Lawyer: Slip and fall cases can be difficult, and having an experienced attorney is important. A Montgomery slip and fall lawyer from Krebs Law, LLC can help educate you on the legal options available. They will guide you through the process of filing a personal injury claim. We offer a free and confidential consultation to talk about your case and determine the best course of action.
The Legal Process of a Slip and Fall Case
Filing a slip and fall claim has many steps, and having legal representation can make the process smoother and more effective. Here's what you can expect when working with a slip and fall attorney:
Investigating the Accident
Your fall lawyer will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your fall accident. Investigating includes:
- Reviewing the accident scene.
- Gathering evidence.
- Determining whether the property owner knew about the dangerous condition.
Our legal team will also assess whether the property owner took reasonable measures to fix the issue or warn visitors of the potential hazard.
Filing a Premises Liability Claim
Once the investigation is complete, your attorney will file a premises liability claim for you. This claim aims to hold the property owner liable for the injuries you endured given the fall. The goal is to get your money back for your medical statements, lost wages, and other damages.
Negotiating a Settlement
In most slip and fall lawsuits, the responsible party's insurance company will offer a settlement to avoid going to court. Your lawyer will deal with insurance to ensure the settlement covers all expenses.
Your attorney will be prepared for trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
The Litigation Process
If your case goes to trial, your slip and fall attorney will represent you in court, presenting evidence and arguing for fair compensation. While most cases are settled out of court, having an experienced attorney prepared to represent you can be a significant advantage.
Damages You Can Recover in a Slip and Fall Case
Victims of slip and fall accidents usually suffer life-altering injuries that can lead to significant financial burdens. In a successful premises liability case, you may be entitled to recover damages for:
- Medical Expenses: These expenses include hospital visits, surgeries, medications, therapy, and any other medical treatment related to your fall injuries.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries don't allow you to work, you can get compensation for lost wages, both past and future.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages like pain, suffering, and emotional distress are also compensable in slip and fall cases.
- Lost Income: If your injuries prevent you from doing your work, you are entitled to compensation for lost wages, both past and future.
Why You Need a Montgomery Slip and Fall Lawyer
Handling a slip and fall case alone will be a challenge. A Montgomery slip and fall lawyer from Krebs Law, LLC can provide the legal guidance and representation you need to pursue fair compensation.
Here's why having an experienced attorney on your side is key:
- Knowledge of Premises Liability Laws: Slip and fall cases are ruled by premises liability laws, which can be complex and vary by state. A skilled lawyer will have a deep knowledge of these laws in Alabama and how they apply to your case. They will also know how to effectively prove that the property owner's negligence led to your injuries.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies try to lessen or deny claims to protect their bottom line. Your attorney can take care of all legalities with the insurance company, confirming that your rights are protected and that you receive a good settlement. They will also be prepared to take the case to court if necessary.
- Maximizing Your Compensation: An experienced slip and fall lawyer will strive to increase your compensation by investigating your case, gathering strong evidence, and negotiating aggressively on your behalf. They will consider all potential damages, including medical costs and physical or emotional suffering, to ensure you are fully compensated for your injuries.
- Contingency Fee Basis: At Krebs Law, LLC, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay any upfront fees. We only get paid if we win the lawsuit and get you compensation. It will allow time for you to focus on your recovery without worrying about paying upfront legal costs.
Common Injuries in Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can result in many injuries, some of which may not be immediately apparent. Common injuries include:
- Broken Bones: Falls can lead to fractures, particularly in the wrists, hips, and ankles.
- Head Injuries: A fall can end in a traumatic brain injury, leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Hurting your spinal cord will result in partial or complete paralysis, altering a victim's life.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and torn ligaments are common in slip and fall accidents.
Getting medical attention after a slip and fall accident is important, even if you don't feel injured right away. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms until hours or even days after the accident occurred.
Steps to Take in a Slip and Fall Case
- Document the Accident Scene: Take photos of where the fall happened, including any hazards that contributed to the accident.
- Get Medical Help: Get medical treatment as soon as possible and keep records of all your medical expenses.
- Contact a Lawyer: Contact a slip and fall lawyer to assess your case and legal options.
- File a Claim: Your attorney help you file a premises liability claim for you and hopefully make a settlement or agreement with the responsible party's insurance company.
- Pursue Legal Action: If you do not think you got a fair deal or a settlement that meets the standard, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court.
Contact Krebs Law, LLC for a Consultation with a Montgomery Slip and Fall Lawyer
If you've been hurt in a slip and fall incident, don't wait to look for legal help. The sooner you contact a skilled lawyer, the better your chances of recovering fair compensation. At Krebs Law, LLC, we offer a free consultation to discuss your case and help you be aware of your legal options. Our team of slip and fall attorneys are experts at providing the legal guidance and representation you need to achieve the best possible outcome.
Slip and fall accidents can have life-altering consequences, but you don't have to face the aftermath alone. A Montgomery slip and fall lawyer from Krebs Law, LLC can help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve. With our experienced legal team by your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal details. Contact us for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in seeking justice.
