Unexpectantly losing your footing can be a distressing experience, ranging from embarrassment to potentially severe physical consequences, especially if you fall from a high surface or onto an unforgiving one. When an accident like this happens on someone else’s property, that property owner may bear civil liability for the effects of your injuries—that is, if you can prove the landowner should have done more to prevent the accident from happening in the first place.
As any experienced personal injury attorney could tell you, establishing civil fault for a slip or trip and fall injury in this way can be much more difficult in practice than in theory. Fortunately, a knowledgeable Metairie slip and fall lawyer with a successful track record in cases like yours could fight on your behalf.
When Are Landowners Legally at Fault for Slips and Falls?
The basic idea behind premises liability law is that landowners are responsible for maintaining safe environments for their guests. More specifically, all landowners must warn their guests about any known hazardous conditions. Commercial operators, in particular, have to inspect their property regularly so they become aware of new hazards relatively soon after they crop up.
Additionally, the people visiting other people’s private property are expected to act reasonably in order to minimize their risk of slipping, tripping, or otherwise getting hurt in an avoidable accident. Someone who is hurt from a dangerous property condition who was also acting negligently at the time—like running where they should have been walking—may have their civil compensation reduced or even taken away entirely by a civil court. A Metairie slip and fall attorney could further explain “modified comparative fault” in accordance with Louisiana law during a confidential consultation.
Getting Compensated Fairly for Past and Future Damages
In cases where “comparative negligence” is not a factor, individuals who can prove a landowner should have done more to prevent their slip and fall can demand compensation from that landowner. This can include both “economic” and “non-economic” forms of harm resulting from their injury, such as:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Personal property damage/loss
- Psychological and emotional distress
- Short-term and long-term medical expenses
- Lost work income, benefits, and long-term earning capacity
- Lost enjoyment of life and other effects of long-term disability
An accidental fall lawyer in Metairie could explain what “compensable damages” a particular person could factor into their lawsuit or settlement demand, as well as the best strategy for pursuing financial recovery in their situation.
Contact a Metairie Trip and Fall Attorney for Help
No matter where or how they happen, accidental falls can cause very serious injuries that are expensive to treat and immensely disruptive to your personal and professional life. When you are hurt because someone else did not take proper safety precautions, they should be responsible for paying for your losses.
The legal process can seem daunting, but a seasoned Metairie slip and fall lawyer could help you get the restitution you deserve. Call today to schedule a private consultation and discuss your legal options.
