Average Trip and Fall Settlement in Pennsylvania
Each year, slips and falls kill thousands of people and injure millions more. If you are recovering from one of these accidents, you may consider taking legal action. Property owners have a duty to keep walkways and other areas safe and free of hazards. If they fail to do so, you can demand compensation for their negligence.
However, getting the average settlement for a trip and fall injury can be daunting. That’s why Rosen Justice Injury Lawyers is here to help. We can review your case and help you hold the liable party accountable.
Understanding Settlements
You can choose to go to court to seek compensation for your injuries. But sometimes, it’s better to negotiate a private agreement with the liable party. By entering into a settlement, you promise to drop your claim in return for funds to cover your damages.
People like to settle because it’s faster and less hassle than going to court. You control the process and can work out a fair agreement for all parties. On top of this, you can request the settlement to stay private so no one will ever know how much money you receive.
The Myth of the Average Settlement
You might be curious about the standard settlement amount for trip and fall cases in Pennsylvania. However, the truth is every trip and fall injury is unique, and the compensation you deserve depends entirely on the specific details of your case. While you may want to compare your situation to past trip and fall settlement amounts, remember that your claim is unique. Only a skilled lawyer can offer you an accurate estimate of your settlement.
Factors Affecting Trip and Fall Settlement Value
The value of your trip and fall settlement hinges on several key factors. While some of these are out of your control, your actions still greatly impact the outcome of your claim. Understanding these factors will help you navigate the process and seek fair compensation.
Severity of Injuries
The extent of injuries is one of the biggest aspects of your claim. After all, you can only file a claim if you suffer injury or financial loss. Your compensation demand can cover all past and future medical costs, such as surgeries and medications. In addition, you can cite emotional and mental injuries like anxiety and lost enjoyment of life.
Degree of Liability
The property owner only owes you a settlement if they are liable for your injuries. If it’s clear that the property owner is 100% at fault, you may receive a higher settlement. However, Pennsylvania follows a comparative negligence law that can lower your payout if you share some of the blame. For example, the other side might claim that you ignored warning signs or created the hazardous condition that caused your fall. If true, your share of liability may lower your settlement amount.
Strength of Evidence
You need evidence to prove that you have a valid claim and that the property owner is liable for the accident. Key pieces of evidence may include:
- Photographs or videos of the accident scene,
- Witness statements,
- Accident reports,
- Medical records documenting injuries, and
- Any correspondence with the property owner.
Evidence becomes more challenging to find as time passes, so it’s imperative that you begin the legal process as soon as possible.
Insurance Coverage
Property owners typically carry liability insurance to protect themselves after accidents on their premises. While some homeowners or business insurance policies offer substantial coverage, others may have lower limits. In most cases, property owners don’t have other collectible assets outside of this insurance. That means you may only receive compensation up to the coverage limit.
Legal Representation
Your attorney’s abilities and preparation will significantly impact your case. They will be your chief advocate, so you need a lawyer who can best represent your interests. If they are too quick to settle or fail to collect the proper evidence, you may receive less compensation than you deserve.
How a Lawyer Can Help You Seek a Settlement
After a trip and fall accident, navigating the legal path to secure a fair settlement can feel overwhelming. You need an attorney to handle paperwork and deadlines so you can focus on recovering. Here’s how Rosen Justice Injury Lawyers can guide you through the process:
- Free case evaluation. We offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your accident and determine the value of your claim. This is our chance to outline your legal options and answer any questions you may have.
- Investigating your claim. An experienced lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into your accident. Once they have evidence, they will piece it all together to determine how the accident happened and why you deserve compensation.
- Access to experts. Your lawyer has access to a network of experts like accident reconstructionists, engineers, or economists. These experts can provide crucial testimony to strengthen your case.
- Winning negotiation strategies. Your lawyer will develop a custom negotiation strategy to pursue the highest amount possible. They’ll leverage their experience and knowledge of insurance company tactics to advocate vigorously for your rights and interests.
- Peace of mind. A lawyer takes the burden off your shoulders, handling all the legal complexities of your case. This allows you to focus on healing and getting back to your normal routine.
Our firm knows what it takes to get the average settlement for a trip and fall injury. Speak with us to see how much your claim may be worth.
Get Help from a Trip And Fall Lawyer
Under Pennsylvania law, you only have two years to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long to seek compensation can hurt your case and bar you from getting a settlement altogether.
Take the first step to recovery by calling the professionals at Rosen Justice Injury Lawyers. Over the last 75 years, we have recovered several six and seven-figure slip-and-fall settlements. You can count on us to take charge of your case and seek the best outcome possible.
Call our offices today to schedule your free consultation.
