Slip and fall accidents tend to take place when you least expect them, and their impact can be more serious than many realize. These accidents often occur in public places, stores, or even on sidewalks, leading to injuries that may disrupt your daily life. Knowing your legal rights and understanding your legal options is crucial in these situations. A premises liability lawyer can help. At Neuberger, Griggs, Sweet & Froehle LLP, our attorneys are here to help you handle the aftermath and fight for the compensation you need during this difficult time.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents are often a result of avoidable hazards that can be addressed through proper care and routine maintenance. Here are some of the most common causes:
Wet or Slippery Floors
Spilled liquids, recently mopped floors, or rainwater tracked indoors can create slippery surfaces. Stores, restaurants, and public spaces are required to address these hazards quickly to prevent accidents.
Uneven Sidewalks or Broken Stairs
Cracked sidewalks, loose floor tiles, and poorly maintained stairs are common culprits for slip and fall accidents. If these hazards exist on someone else’s property, the owner may be held responsible.
Weather-Related Hazards
In Wisconsin, icy walkways and snow-covered stairs are frequent causes of falls, especially during winter. Property owners are expected to clear these hazards in a timely manner to keep visitors safe.
Our team can evaluate the specific circumstances of your accident and help determine whether negligence played a role in your injuries.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Slip and Fall
There are specific things that you should do after a slip and fall that are essential to protecting your health and building a strong legal case.
Seek Medical Attention
Your health should always come first. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to see a doctor. Some injuries, like sprains or concussions, might not show symptoms right away.
Document the Scene
Take pictures of where the fall occurred. These photos should capture any hazards that contributed to the accident, such as puddles, broken steps, or poor lighting. If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information.
Notify the Property Owner
You should immediately notify the owner or manager of the property about the accident and ask for an incident report. Be polite but avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be used against you later.
Following these steps will help you establish a strong foundation for seeking compensation.
Understanding Premises Liability Laws in Wisconsin
Premises liability laws in our state require property owners to ensure a safe environment for all visitors, holding them accountable for any hazards on their property. Here’s what you need to know about how these laws apply to slip and fall cases:
Property Owner Responsibilities
Wisconsin property owners have a legal responsibility to promptly address any hazards on their premises. If they do not fix the issues or warn visitors about dangerous conditions, they may be held liable for resulting injuries.
Proving Negligence
To file a premises liability claim successfully, you must prove that:
- A dangerous condition existed.
- The property owner knew or should have known about the hazard.
- They did not address the issue or warn you about it.
- Their negligence directly caused your injuries.
When to Contact a Premises Liability Lawyer
Even though you may not need legal help for every slip, trip, or fall accident, there are certain signs that it’s time to contact a premises liability lawyer:
Severe Injuries
If your fall resulted in significant medical bills, time off work, or may cause long-term health issues, a lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you need.
Disputed Liability
If the owner of the property or their insurance company denies responsibility, having a lawyer by your side can make a difference in proving your case.
Time Limits
Wisconsin’s statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims specifies that you must take legal action within three years. Our team can ensure all deadlines are met.
Potential Compensation for Slip and Fall Claims
If you’ve suffered injuries from a slip and fall accident, you may be eligible for compensation covering various types of damages. This compensation is designed to support your physical recovery, ease financial burdens, and provide emotional relief, helping you regain control and move forward with your life.
Medical Expenses
Medical costs after a slip and fall can add up extremely fast. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and any future treatments you might need. Those injured in slip and falls often face unexpected financial strain from these expenses. Compensation for medical expenses ensures that injured people can access the care they need without worrying about affordability.
Lost Wages
If your injuries keep you from working, you can seek compensation for the income you’ve missed. In some cases, you may also be eligible for damages related to a reduced ability to earn in the future. Without this compensation, recovering from a slip and fall can put victims under severe financial pressure.
Pain and Suffering
Slip and fall accidents don’t just cause physical injuries—they can also lead to emotional distress and a loss of enjoyment in your normal activities. Compensation for pain and suffering acknowledges the toll these experiences take on your overall quality of life. This is especially important for victims whose lives have been permanently changed by the accident, helping to provide a sense of justice and closure.
At Neuberger, Griggs, Sweet & Froehle LLP, we understand how these damages can impact your recovery. That’s why we’re dedicated to securing the fair compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on rebuilding your life with peace of mind.
Contact Our Team
A slip and fall accident can turn your life upside down, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Neuberger, Griggs, Sweet & Froehle LLP, we’re dedicated to helping accident victims in Southern Wisconsin, and beyond. Whether you need help proving negligence or dealing with insurance companies, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Call us at (920) 261-1630 today to schedule a consultation in Watertown, Columbus, or Lake Mills. Our team is prepared to guide you through every step of the process.