Many slip-and-falls have minimal consequences, but some are more serious. People may break bones or even injure their brains when they fall. Their injuries could lead to medical bills and could also affect their household income.
When a slip-and-fall occurs because of unsafe property conditions at a residential apartment complex or a business, the person who fell may have the option of holding the business or property owner accountable. When is a slip-and-fall lawsuit potentially an option?
When negligence caused the situation
Typically, those hoping to pursue a slip-and-fall lawsuit must show that the business or property owner caused the incident through negligence. While there might be an insurance policy that provides premises liability coverage, litigation is sometimes necessary to secure appropriate compensation.
If another reasonable person agrees that the party managing the facility didn’t do what was necessary for safety, then the injured person may have grounds to take legal action. Documenting unsafe property conditions can help people pursue compensation later.
When they have actual losses
If a slip-and-fall only results in a few bruises, financial compensation likely isn’t necessary. However, if people have documentation of medical expenses, property damage losses or a reduction in their income, then they may have damages that they can seek to recover through litigation. Particularly when losses exceed the insurance coverage available, a premises liability lawsuit may be necessary.
People affected by unsafe property conditions often require support as they seek to hold businesses or property owners accountable. Slip-and-fall or premises liability lawsuits can help people reduce the lasting economic damage caused by unsafe property conditions.
