Why You Should Always Call a Lawyer After a Slip-and-Fall Accident
Every year, over one million people nationwide visit the ER for slip-and-fall injuries. These incidents can be debilitating, leading to thousands in medical expenses, lost wages, and permanent disability. Even with significant losses, you must still prove a property owner's liability. At Matthews Injury Law, our Tampa slip-and-fall attorneys are committed to seeking the maximum compensation for injured clients. To discuss your legal options, contact our firm today.
To Understand Your Rights
If you were a customer or even a guest at someone’s house, in most situations, you have a legal right to be compensated for your medical bills, lost wages, and other out-of-pocket costs if the fall was a result of their negligence. Understanding your legal rights and how to obtain the maximum compensation is crucial in any slip-and-fall case. A slip-and-fall lawyer will discuss your legal options to discern the right path for you.
To Gather Evidence
slip-and-falls can result in broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and even concussions, but without relevant evidence, you will not be able to recover for your losses. Evidence in a slip-and-fall may include photos of your injuries, the property defect, video footage of the fall, or eyewitness testimony. Gathering this information can be tricky, but it becomes easier with a slip-and-fall lawyer on your side.
To File an Incident Report
Ask the property manager for a written incident report detailing your fall. Provide your account to help create the report, and request a copy for your records. This helps preserve your right to take legal action.
To Submit Your Claim
A slip-and-fall attorney can help file your claim with insurance. Property owners are typically liable if unsafe conditions caused your injury. Businesses owe a higher level of care than private property owners, so you may recover damages if hazards go unfixed in public spaces.
This is opposed to the case where you slip on your friend’s property, where property owners only owe a legal duty to warn social guests of non-obvious dangers. In contrast, under Fla. Stat. §768.075, property owners generally owe no legal duty to warn trespassers of hazards when the trespasser is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
To Negotiate a Fair Settlement
To recover maximum compensation for your injuries, you need an attorney experienced in negotiating with insurance companies. Negotiation may take weeks or months, as adjusters often request additional information before making an offer. Strong evidence is key to securing your deserved settlement. At Matthews Injury Law, our Tampa slip-and-fall lawyers know insurance company tactics and how to overcome them. Our legal team will always tailor its approach to your case to achieve the best possible resolution.
Contact a Tampa Slip-and-Fall Attorney Today
Slipping on another person’s property can have long-term consequences, physically, emotionally, and financially. At Matthews Injury Law, our Tampa slip-and-fall lawyers dedicate their professional lives to fighting for victims of personal injuries. Our success is evident in the numerous individuals who have recovered the resources they need to move forward. To learn more or schedule your free consultation, contact us online or call (813) 530-1000 today.