Call Us atSuffering injuries on someone else’s property is not uncommon. While not every accident occurs because of negligence on the property owner’s part, liability law could entitle you to recover compensation for damages if the accident happened because of a failure to keep the premises safe.
A successful claim must show that the owner did not maintain the property or ensure it was safe for visitors. If you have found yourself injured, you might feel overwhelmed with how to start this process. An experienced personal injury attorney could help point you in the right direction. To find out if your case could properly establish negligence, call a North Creek slip and fall lawyer for more information and to schedule a consultation.
Types of Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip and fall accidents can occur due to various overlooked issues such as wet or slippery floors, uneven flooring, broken staircases, poor lighting, and ripped or loose carpets. The injuries from these accidents can sometimes be life-changing and can have a devastating effect on the lives of the injured party and their family. These traumatic events can be especially catastrophic for the elderly. Some common injuries in these claims include:
- Severe neck and shoulder injuries
- Fractured or broken bones, including knees or the hip
- Back or spinal cord injuries causing herniated discs or paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
These injuries not only create a physical burden but can also create a financial burden. A lawyer in the North Creek area skilled in slip and fall accident cases could help build a claim to potentially compensate the claimant for all current and future medical expenses.
Establishing Liability After a Slip and Fall Accident
To establish liability after suffering injuries in a trip and fall accident, the claimant must show the property owner failed to act as another reasonable person in the same position would have. The petition must also show the plaintiff was not engaging in an activity that caused the accident.
For example, the individual responsible for a property has a legal duty to keep the premises safe for guests they invite onto that property. If the possessor of the premises knew or should have known of a dangerous condition and failed to fix or warn visitors, the court could find the defendant’s negligence caused the accident.
The case must also show the hazard was the direct cause of the injuries and the claimant suffered verifiable damages in the accident.
What is Comparative Fault in Slip and Fall Lawsuits?
Under RCW 4.22.005, any contributory fault of the plaintiff reduces the amount awarded to them by their share of the total fault for the accident. For example, if a plaintiff’s total damages are $10,000 and the plaintiff is 10% at fault, the award to the plaintiff is reduced by $1,000, and the defendant is only liable for $9,000.
Pure comparative fault means a defendant can be held liable in a negligence action even where the plaintiff bears the majority of fault for the accident. In theory, even a plaintiff who is 99% at fault for the accident may recover 1% of their damages from it.
A slip and fall injury attorney in North Creek could aid in understanding comparative fault; and, if it is present, look for the evidence needed to establish negligence.
Call a Seasoned North Creek Slip and Fall Attorney Today
If you were a guest on someone’s property and suffered severe injuries in an avoidable slip and fall accident, civil law could entitle you to recover compensation for damages.
Premises liability claims can be challenging and must establish certain aspects for successful recovery. Let a North Creek slip and fall lawyer help. Call soon to schedule an appointment.
