How Do Slip and Fall Claims Work in Philadelphia
Bustling cities like Philadelphia are full of hazards that can lead to falls. These unexpected falls can sometimes lead to severe mental and physical injuries.
If you were hurt in a slip and fall, you can file a lawsuit or insurance claim to recover for these damages.
Rosen Justice Injury Lawyers handles a range of slip and fall claims in Philadelphia. Our attorneys know how to file a slip-and-fall claim and will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
What is a Slip and Fall?
A slip and fall happens when someone loses their footing and falls. These accidents can lead to bruising, broken bones, and head trauma. They often occur in places like stores, restaurants, and walkways. You can sue property owners to recover compensation if you get injured in a slip and fall.
The Process of a Slip and Fall Claims
While no two slip-and-fall claims are alike, most follow the same steps.
Hire a Personal Injury Attorney
Working with a personal injury attorney is key to a strong claim. They know how to sue for a slip and fall and can guide you through the process. Your attorney can review your case and see if you qualify for compensation. If so, they will help gather important evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and maximize your compensation.
Gather Evidence
Collecting strong evidence will help prove your slip-and-fall claim. Evidence can include photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and surveillance footage. Also, keep records of medical records and other bills that prove any physical or financial losses.
Establish Liability
Your attorney will identify the property owner or any other party responsible for your injuries.
Components of liability include:
- Duty of care—demonstrating that the property owner had a legal obligation to maintain a safe environment for visitors;
- Breach of duty—showing that the property owner failed in their duty by allowing hazardous conditions to exist, such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, or neglected walkways;
- Causation—establishing a direct link between the property owner’s negligence and the slip and fall incident, demonstrating that the unsafe conditions directly led to the injuries; and
- Damages—including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Your attorney will use the evidence and facts of your case to prove each of these elements.
Negotiate a Settlement
Most parties try to resolve slip-and-fall claims outside of a courtroom. Your attorney will negotiate with the other side and their insurance carrier during this time. Negotiation is not always fast, but it can help you get fair compensation for your injuries. Also, you always have the final say on accepting a settlement offer.
Go to Court
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, the next step is taking your slip-and-fall case to court. At trial, your personal injury attorney will present your evidence and legal arguments before a judge or jury. They will show why the other side is liable for your injuries and explain the total cost of your damages.
Compensation Available in Slip and Fall Claims
Slip-and-fall claims can lead to a range of damages. You can seek compensation for these injuries or financial expenses in a settlement or lawsuit.
Some compensation available after a slip-and-fall claim include:
- Medical expenses,
- Lost wages,
- Pain and suffering,
- Property damage,
- Disability, and
- Punitive damages.
Determining the full amount of these damages can be difficult. Your lawyer will review the facts and evidence to help calculate a value for these claims.
How Long Do You Have to File a Slip And Fall Claim?
Pennsylvania law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a slip-and-fall lawsuit. You may be unable to get compensation if you miss this deadline. There are some exceptions to this law, so speak with your attorney to see if you qualify.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Rosen Justice Injury Lawyers can help you get compensation after a slip and fall. Our lawyers have decades of experience representing victims like you and always fight hard for our clients. Call our office today to schedule a case evaluation.
