Slip and fall accidents account for a large number of personal injury lawsuits. Whether it was due to a liquid spill on the floor or and icy sidewalk, a slip and fall accident can result in serious injuries. If you were recently injured in a slip and fall accident, it’s important to be able to separate truth from fiction so that you can have a successful claim.
Here are some of the most common myths about slip and fall accidents:
You Can’t Sue If There Was a Sign
While a warning sign about a potentially dangerous condition can make it more difficult to sue for a slip and fall accident, it’s not impossible. For example, if a property owner displayed a warning sign about a slippery floor and you still fell, the owner might not be held legally responsible. However, if the sign was hidden, you may be able to sue the owner for damages.
You Can Only Obtain Compensation for Physical Injuries
In a slip and fall accident case, physical injuries are the only damages you can sue for. If your injuries are very severe, they can affect your life in several other ways too. For example, if your injury has forced you to take time off work, you may sue for lost income. If your injuries are so painful that they cause you to lose sleep at night, you may sue for pain and suffering.
You Can’t Receive Compensation if the Property Owner is Unable to Pay
If the property owner says that they don’t have any money to pay for your injuries, don’t lose hope. Even if the property owner truly doesn’t have money to pay you, they likely have insurance. That means that any injuries that occur on their property are covered.
Slip and Fall Accidents Are Typically the Fault of the Victim
Although some slip and fall accidents are due to people not paying attention to their surroundings, many of these accidents are caused by the property owner’s negligence. Property owners are legally responsible for ensuring their property is safe for visitors. If they fail to repair dangerous conditions and properly warn others about them, they can be held liable.
You Can File a Lawsuit Whenever You Want
You don’t have all the time in the world to file a slip and fall accident claim. There is a statute of limitations you have to follow, which is typically two years after the accident. Once that time has passed, you will no longer be eligible to receive compensation.
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, it’s important to consult with a slip and fall lawyer in Memphis, TN soon. They understand how difficult it is to be injured in an accident and want to help you get justice. Contact a law firm today for a consultation.
Thanks to Patterson Bray, for their insight into personal injury claims and common myths about slip and fall accidents.