Nobody wakes up in the morning thinking they are going to injure themselves falling — but more than 800,000 people are hospitalized each year because of injuries sustained by a slip, trip, or fall.
Because these types of accidents (Premise liability) can happen anywhere, it is important to know what to do if you ever injure yourself falling — especially when it isn’t your fault.
Under Louisiana Law, a premise owner is liable for damages sustained as a result of an unreasonably dangerous condition existing on his/her property. In Louisiana, this precept is known as premise liability and arises out of principles of negligence and equity. – HG
5 Steps To Take Immediately After a Fall
- Seek Medical Attention. If you or a loved one were injured after a slip, trip, or fall, it is important to see a doctor to get your injuries documented. Documented injuries by a medical provider are important evidence that will be needed if you decide to seek compensation for your injuries.
- Report the Accident. Make sure you report the incident to the manager, owner, or landlord of the property you were injured on. Get the details in writing and request the written report before leaving the premises.
- Document Important Information. It is important to get contact information from all potential witnesses because their statements can help support your legal claim if you choose to see compensation for your injuries.
- Refrain From Posting or Sharing Details. Do not post any details to social media or communicate with the insurance company until you have consulted with an attorney.
- Call an Attorney. If you or a loved one were injured after a slip, trip, or fall accident consult with an experienced attorney. Premise liability or slip-and-fall claims can be complex and difficult to prove which is why you should consider legal representation.
Proving Negligence in Premises Liability Lawsuits
Property owners have the right to deny responsibility for your injury even if they were negligent. Hiring an attorney can decrease the hassle you might get by trying to get compensation for your injuries on your own. Building a strong case for a slip and fall claim means we need to prove the property owner was negligent by proving the following:
- The property condition was dangerous when you were on the premises.
- The owner knew, or should have known the property was in a dangerous condition and failed to correct it.
- The injury was caused by the hazardous condition.
Common Slip and Fall Injuries
- Head injuries, brain trauma
- Hip fractures
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Sprains and Fractures
- Internal injuries
- Facial injuries
Common Slip and Fall Injury Causes
- Surface conditions
- Uneven surfaces without warning
- Recently mopped or waxed floors
- Loose floorboards, carpeting, mats, rugs
- Potholes
- Spilled liquids
- Environmental conditions
- Trash or debris on floor
- Poor lighting
- Cords running across the floor
- Open drawers obstructing the walkway
- Occupational conditions
- Construction workers
- Housekeepers or custodians
- Kitchen workers
- Manual laborers
- Factory workers
How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?
Our experienced attorneys at Ron Austin Law are aware of how difficult it can be to manage medical bills and lost wages after your accident. That’s why there is no fee unless we get you compensated. You will not have to pay for any upfront legal fees.
Why You Should Consult with a Lawyer
To establish fault for your slip and fall case, you need to prove negligence. The first thing your lawyers will do is investigate what happened when the injury occurred, examine the scene, discuss all possibilities with you, and determine why and how you fell. The investigation will determine whether or now the property owner violated any state, federal, or local laws that contributed to your injury. Your lawyer will then properly document your lost wages, medical bills, and record to argue damages owed for injury, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
