Lubbock Slip and Fall Lawyer
When someone invites others onto their premises, they are responsible for providing a safe environment. If you slipped or tripped and fell on private or public property, you could be eligible for compensation.
There are many factors that could impact your claim for damages, including the type of property and your reason for being there. A Lubbock slip and fall lawyer could explain the laws regarding dangerous properties and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Discuss your case with a dedicated attorney at Chad Jones Law today.
Common Hazards Could Lead to Falls
Many slip and fall lawsuits arise out of incidents that occur in businesses or other public places. The property owners, occupiers, and lessees have an obligation to inspect the premises for hazards on a regular basis. When they discover a hazard, the law requires them to remedy the situation as swiftly as possible and warn customers of the hazard until repairs are complete.
Many common conditions might cause an individual to lose their footing and possibly fall. Some examples include:
- Uneven flooring
- Poor lighting
- Debris, electrical cords, or other tripping hazards in walkways or aisles
- Irregular or damaged steps, or poorly marked steps in unexpected locations
- Loose carpeting or floor tiles
- Unsecured or loose railings
- Wet floors
If possible, a person who falls in a business or other public place should note the date and exact time of the fall. Taking pictures of the area where the accident occurred and the hazard that caused the fall is helpful. A Lubbock attorney could use this evidence to establish that an unsafe condition existed on the premises and the owner or occupier negligently failed to prevent the slip and fall accident from occurring.
Damages Available in a Lubbock Slip and Fall Case
In a slip and fall case, a monetary damages award could compensate an injured person (the plaintiff) for losses they suffered because of the negligent acts or omissions of someone else (the defendant). Potential losses that could be compensated include medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
The Potential for Comparative Fault
Sometimes, a plaintiff shares responsibility for an accident. Perhaps they were distracted by their companion or phone and not paying attention to where they were walking when they fell. The allocation of blame could have a significant impact on a plaintiff’s claim for damages.
The doctrine of proportional responsibility, also called modified comparative negligence, makes each party in an accident responsible for their part in causing it. A plaintiff who was partially at fault cannot collect all their damages, only the portion that is attributable to others.
If a plaintiff’s portion of fault exceeds 50 percent, Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code §33.001 states they cannot receive damages from any other negligent party. A skilled local attorney could gather and present evidence demonstrating that others’ acts and omissions were the main cause of the plaintiff’s fall.
Move Forward with a Knowledgeable Lubbock Slip and Fall Attorney
It is crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible after a slip and fall accident. An attorney could speak with the property owner, negotiate with insurance companies, speak with witnesses, and gather other evidence to build a strong injury claim. State law requires most claims to be filed within two years of the accident, so the earlier you get started with an attorney, the better.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries on a dangerous property, reach out to a Lubbock slip and fall lawyer right away. The experienced team at Chad Jones Law could help you pursue the compensation you deserve and hold the at-fault property owner accountable.
