A slip and fall can happen in an instant, but the consequences can last a lifetime. A wet floor, an icy sidewalk, a poorly lit staircase—these are all hazards that can lead to serious injuries. When you are injured on someone else’s property, you may have the right to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
But winning a slip and fall case is not always easy. To win your case, you must be able to prove that the property owner was negligent. This is where an experienced slip and fall attorney in Eau Claire can make all the difference.
Understanding Premises Liability and Negligence
Slip and fall cases fall under an area of law called premises liability. This means that property owners have a legal duty to keep their property in a reasonably safe condition for visitors. To prove negligence, you must show that:
- A dangerous condition existed on the property.
- The property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition.
- The property owner failed to take reasonable steps to fix the condition or warn visitors about it.
- The dangerous condition caused your injuries.
How a Slip and Fall Attorney Can Prove Negligence
Proving negligence can be challenging. Property owners and their insurance companies will often argue that the accident was your fault or that they were not aware of the dangerous condition. A skilled slip and fall attorney will know how to counter these arguments and build a strong case for you.
Here’s how we can help:
- Preserve Evidence: We will act quickly to preserve crucial evidence, such as surveillance footage, photos of the scene, and incident reports.
- Interview Witnesses: We will interview anyone who may have witnessed the accident or who has knowledge of the dangerous condition.
- Investigate the Property Owner’s Maintenance Records: We will investigate whether the property owner had a regular inspection and maintenance schedule and whether they followed it.
- Work with Experts: We may work with safety experts to establish that the property owner failed to meet the required standard of care.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, but some of the most common causes include:
- Wet or slippery floors
- Icy sidewalks and parking lots
- Poorly lit stairwells and hallways
- Uneven surfaces or broken pavement
- Cluttered walkways
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: What should I do after a slip and fall accident?
A: If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately. Then, report the accident to the property owner or manager, take photos of the scene and your injuries, and get the contact information of any witnesses. Finally, contact a slip and fall attorney before you speak to any insurance companies.
Q: How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in Wisconsin?
A: In Wisconsin, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including slip and fall cases, is three years from the date of the accident.
Q: What if the property owner claims I was at fault?
A: It is common for property owners to try to shift the blame to the victim. An experienced attorney will fight back against these claims and work to prove that the property owner’s negligence was the cause of your injuries.
Injured in a Fall? Contact an Eau Claire Slip and Fall Attorney Today.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, you don’t have to face the legal battle alone. The dedicated and experienced attorneys at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler are here to help you prove negligence and get the compensation you deserve. We invite you to visit our homepage to learn more about our firm.
When you’re ready, contact us online or call our Eau Claire office at 715-832-1500 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you get back on your feet.