Slip and fall accidents are one of the commonest accidents that occur in the U.S. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one million people suffer a slip, trip, and fall injury, and over 17, 000 people as a result annually. Our attorney understands the laws and guidelines to follow in regards to slip and fall accidents.
Slip and fall accidents are generally used for injuries that occur as a result of slips, trips, falls, or stumbles, especially while on the property or premises of another person. The property or premises may either be public or private.
Be it grocery stores, retail locations, private residents, motels and hotels, restaurants, fitness centers, etc., you may be able to recover compensation from the owner of the property or any other party that can be held responsible for your slip and fall injury.
If you or a loved one suffers an injury from a slip and fall accident in Columbia, one of your immediate actions should be to consult a slip and fall accident lawyer experienced in this kind of case. Consult Marc Brown law firm online here or call to get an insight on the options available to you.
Negligence in slip and fall accidents
The owner of a property is expected to undertake certain precautions to keep their property safe. Owners of commercial premises are held on a higher pedestal on this responsibility.
These responsibilities are generally known as ‘premises liability’. Unfortunately, many property owners neglect to keep their property reasonably safe. This is usually the primary cause of slip and fall accidents.
In South Carolina, a property owner will not be automatically held responsible for the slip and fall accidents that occur within their premises. It has to be established that the owner was aware of the ‘unsafe condition’ that led to your injury. Likewise, proving that the owner negligently created the unsafe condition on a property will also avail you.
You can also establish that even though the ‘unsafe condition’ was put by another person, the owner of the premises failed to fix it within a reasonable time.
Dangerous conditions that can lead to slip and fall accidents
The number of ‘unsafe’ or ‘dangerous’ condition that may be the cause of your slip and fall injury include:
- Dim or poor lighting,
- Slippery or wet surfaces,
- Tattered rugs or frayed carpeting,
- Defective elevators,
- Uneven ground or flooring,
- Lack of required warning signs,
- Building and safety code violations,
- Stairways without proper hand-hold, etc.
Compensation in slip and fall cases
You should not bear the brunt of your injuries and expenses alone. The parties responsible for your injuries owe you some form of damages. A slip and fall accident lawyer will make sure the negligent parties compensate you for:
- Lost wages for the time missed at work;
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future);
- Occupation and vocational therapy and training, if recommended;
- Pain and suffering, and other expenses.
Brain Injuries
Brain injuries can be particularly devastating, leading to long-term or permanent impairment. Compensation for brain injury lawsuits in Columbia may include:
- Specialized Medical Care: Coverage for neurological evaluations, cognitive therapy, and other specialized medical treatments.
- Long-term Care: Costs associated with ongoing care, including in-home nursing or placement in a specialized care facility.
- Assistive Devices and Home Modifications: Expenses for devices that aid in daily functioning and modifications to the home to accommodate any disabilities.
- Loss of Cognitive and Motor Functions: Compensation for diminished cognitive abilities and motor functions, impacting daily living and employment capabilities.
- Psychological Support: Coverage for counseling and psychiatric services to help cope with the emotional and psychological effects of the injury.
A slip and fall accident may encompass a personal injury, premises liability, and insurance claims at the same time. Your insurer, as well as that of the negligent party, including the owner of the premises, may be required to financially compensate you for injuries sustained.
Comparative Negligence in South Carolina Slip & Fall Accident Cases
South Carolina follows a comparative negligence rule when it comes to slip and fall accidents. This means that if you are partially at fault for your accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are found to be 30% at fault for your slip and fall accident, your compensation will be reduced by 30%. However, under South Carolina Code § 15-38-15, you will be barred from recovering any damages if you are found to be more than 50% at fault for the accident.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Slip & Fall Accident Claim?
Navigating a slip and fall accident claim can be complex and challenging. While it is possible to handle a claim on your own, having a knowledgeable attorney can significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome. Here are some reasons why hiring Columbia personal injury legal help is beneficial:
- Understanding of the Law: An experienced slip and fall lawyer understands the intricacies of premises liability law and can navigate the legal system effectively.
- Gathering Evidence: Lawyers know what evidence is necessary to prove negligence and can help gather crucial information such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and medical records.
- Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often aim to minimize their payouts. A skilled attorney can negotiate with the insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Legal Representation: If your case goes to trial, having an attorney to represent you in court can be crucial for achieving a favorable verdict.
How a Columbia Slip & Fall Accident Lawyer Can Help
A Columbia slip and fall accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance throughout your case. Here is how they can help:
- A Case Evaluation: A lawyer will assess the details of your accident to determine the strength of your claim and the potential value of your case.
- Investigation: They will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence such as the accident report, your medical records, and expert testimonies to build a strong case.
- Legal Advice: An attorney will provide guidance on the best legal strategies and inform you of your rights and options.
- Settlement Negotiations: Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company of the opposing party to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Representation at Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to obtain the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Marc Brown Law Firm?
Choosing the right law firm can make a significant difference in the outcome of your slip and fall case. Reasons to choose Marc Brown Law Firm include:
- Experience: Marc Brown has extensive experience in personal injury law, specifically in slip and fall cases. His background in defending large corporations and insurance companies gives him valuable insights into how these entities operate, which he uses to the benefit of his clients.
- Personalized Attention: At Marc Brown Law Firm, every case is given the attention it deserves. Marc Brown personally oversees each case, ensuring a high level of attention to detail and dedication.
- Proven Track Record: We prepare every case as if it is going to trial, which often results in higher settlement values. Marc Brown Law Firm has a track record of achieving significant results for our clients.
- No Win, No Fee: We will not charge attorney fees unless we win, so you don’t have to worry about legal fees until after your case. This ensures that we are fully committed to winning your case.
- Resources of a Larger Firm: Despite being a boutique law firm, Marc Brown Law Firm has the resources and expertise of a much larger firm, providing comprehensive and effective legal representation.
Get in touch with an experienced Columbia, SC Slip & Fall Lawyer
Our legal team at Marc Brown Law Firm is ready to get you or your loved one the due compensation in a slip and fall accident in Columbia, and the communities in South Carolina.
Get in touch with us by contacting our office or you may also conduct an online consultation here or reach out to us by phone.