Recognizing Negligence after a Slip and Fall Accident
Slip and falls accidents are consistently among the most common cause of accidental injury in the Tustin area. These incidents can occur anywhere, including in your home, at school, at work, or while you are walking down the sidewalk. According to the National Safety Council, slip and fall accidents are responsible for nearly 9 million trips to the emergency department each year. In some cases, slip and fall victims can sustain extremely serious injuries, including broken bones, soft tissue injuries, and even traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Fortunately, in many cases, victims can obtain compensation for their injuries and other losses by filing a claim.
Examples of Negligence that can Lead to a Slip and Fall Accident
In order to be compensated for their losses, victims need to be able to show that their accident was the result of someone else’s negligence. In the context of a slip and fall case, negligence can take a variety of forms, including the following:
- Exposed electrical cords
- Inadequate lighting
- Torn carpets
- Uneven stairs
- Wet floors
- Accumulations of snow and ice
- Debris in walkways
- Missing handrails
- Cracked pavement
- Slippery floors
Not every slip and fall accident is the result of negligence, and in some cases, it may be unclear to the untrained eye that negligence played a role. For this reason, anyone involved in a slip and fall incident should have their case thoroughly reviewed by an attorney familiar with California law. Importantly, there is no cost associated with having your case reviewed by a lawyer, as personal injury attorneys generally take their cases on a contingent fee basis. This means that you will not owe your lawyer anything for legal fees unless he or she brings your case to a successful resolution.
When Should I Talk to a Lawyer?
Many slip and fall victims wonder if they should wait before speaking with an attorney. Of course, your first priority should be your health, so it is important to first seek medical attention after an accident. Once your injuries have been treated, your first phone call should be to an attorney. Slip and fall cases are extremely fact-dependent, and waiting to talk to a lawyer risks the loss or destruction of evidence. Additionally, failure to file a claim within the relevant statute of limitations can result in an inability to recover for your losses at all.
Call a Tustin Personal Injury Lawyer Today to Schedule a Free Consultation
A slip and fall accident has the potential to leave you with significant medical expenses and an inability to work for an extended period of time. For this reason, victims should always speak with an experienced lawyer to ensure that their legal rights are fully protected. With more than 20 years of experience practicing law, Gary A. Peterson is qualified to handle any type of slip and fall case. For a free case evaluation, call our office today at 714-461-6003 or send us an email through our online contact form.