You have a right to expect that a business’s premises or host’s property will be free from hazards. As such, property owners and renters who invite guests into their establishment or home while there are dangerous conditions on the premises can and should be held responsible for the slip and fall injuries they cause. If you have suffered severe injuries after a fall on another person’s property, you may be entitled to financial compensation.
After this type of accident, you should consider getting a Sunset Hills slip and fall lawyer on your side. In addition to providing legal advice, a skilled personal injury attorney could help you negotiate with insurance companies or file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
The term “slip and fall” refers to many types of accidents that result in one person slipping, tripping, or falling on another person’s property. Some of the most common types of hazards that lead to slip and falls include:
- Slippery or wet surfaces
- Excess snow or icy surfaces
- Uneven tile or flooring surfaces
- Loose stairs or uneven stair treads
- Broken railings
- Unsecured rugs or carpets
- Appliance or other cords stretched across a walking path
- Loose bricks in walkways
- Raised or cracked sidewalks
- Inadequate lighting
These dangerous conditions that lead to slip and falls can exist in shopping centers, restaurants, stores, private homes or apartments, or on public property such as on sidewalks. Anyone who has been injured in a slip and fall accident caused by one of these hazards may benefit from talking to a lawyer in Sunset Hills.
Proving Negligence in a Slipping Injury Claim
Slip and fall claims are a type of negligence claim under state law. In a lawsuit, the injured party is alleging that the property owner was at fault for their accident. To establish that a property owner was negligent, the injured party must demonstrate the following:
- The property owner had a duty to keep their premises safe
- The property owner was aware or should have been aware of the hazard on their premises
- They failed to repair or warn visitors of the hazard
- The hazard caused the slip and fall, leading to the person’s injuries and financial damages
Property owners owe a duty of care to those they invite on their premises, whether the visitors are guests, customers, or business associates. Those who visit a business or another person’s property should, at a minimum, be warned of dangerous conditions. Holding a property owner responsible for a slip and fall accident is a complicated process, so it is important to seek help from a qualified attorney.
Dealing With Insurance Companies After an Accident in Sunset Hills
Most businesses and many homeowners have insurance policies that address slip and fall accidents on their property. This means that an injured person may be dealing with an insurance company to get financial compensation.
When negotiating with an insurance company after a slip and fall accident, it is important to remember it is a business looking out for its bottom line. Insurance companies have been known to make low settlement offers soon after a claim is made.
Those making an insurance claim should ensure that they are aware of all of the expenses related to their slip and fall accident. A diligent lawyer could demand a fair settlement offer after a slip and fall accident in Sunset Hills. If settlement negotiations are unsuccessful, a dedicated attorney could help the injured party file a lawsuit.
Reach Out to a Sunset Hills Slip and Fall Attorney Today
Establishing who is responsible for a slip and fall and holding them accountable can be complicated, especially if you are still recovering from your injuries. You may be overwhelmed with insurance companies, unexpected medical costs, lost wages, or even a lost job. Let a Sunset Hills slip and fall lawyer help. Contact us to schedule a consultation with a member of our team.
- High Ridge
- Arnold