Store owners and employees are bound by law to provide their customers with a safe place to shop. While most stores accomplish this goal, others fail to do so and a shopper is injured as a result. The following is an outline of how personal injury law in Arizona relates to slip and fall accidents and who is responsible for the accident victim’s injuries if a potential hazard was brought to the attention of the store manager or employee. If you have been hurt in a slip and fall, contact an attorney to learn what rights you have and if you have a valid claim.
Common Causes Of Slip And Falls
Because we are out and about almost everyday, slip and fall accidents are common in places of business. Some of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents include:
- Wet Flooring That Is Not Marked
- Dim Lighting
- Exposed Electrical Cords
- Loose Boards On Steps
- Pot Holes That Are Not Marked
- Torn Carpeting
- Heavily Waxed Floors
Who Is At Fault?
If you trip over your own feet or lose your balance, you most likely do not have a valid claim. However, if you fall due to a spill that was left on the floor you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries and expenses. Every store owner must provide shoppers with a safe place to shop by taking reasonable steps to maintain the property and eliminate hazards.
The Importance Of Witness Testimony
While some slip and fall cases are cut and dried, others may be more difficult to prove. For this reason, the testimony of anyone who saw the accident is valuable to the plaintiff’s case. It is even more beneficial if a witness reported a spill to store employees and no one took steps to clean it up before the plaintiff was injured. If there are witnesses to your accident, it is important to obtain their contact information if possible before leaving the accident scene. Giving this information to your lawyer could make it easier to prove your case in court if a lawsuit is necessary to obtain a settlement for your injuries.
Slip And Fall Damages
The damages awarded to the victims of slip and fall accidents can vary but typically include:
- Lost Income
- Future Lost Income If The Victim Is Now Disabled
- Emotional Distress
- Pain And Suffering
- Doctor Bills
- Ambulance Fees
- Cost Of Therapy
- Price Of Home Health Care
Obtaining an adequate settlement hinges upon calculating your losses accurately. For this reason, it is advisable to have an attorney who is experienced in personal injury law.
What Can An Attorney Do For You?
Hiring an attorney can make a huge difference in your case. Having someone who can look out for your best interests can maximize your chances of obtaining a fair settlement for your injuries and expenses related to the accident. An attorney may perform the following duties to help you prove your case:
- Locate And Interview Witnesses
- Speak With Medical Experts
- Negotiate With The Property Owners Insurance Company
- File Court Documents
- Represent You In Court
While it is true that most personal injury cases are settled outside of court, it is important to hire an attorney with trial experience in case an agreement cannot be reached. Statistics show that accident victoms who do not have legal counsel are typically offered lower settlements than those who have a lawyer working for them. Insurance adjusters may seem caring and friendly, but it is their job to settle cases for the lowest amounts possible to save their company money. Many people are concerned that hiring a lawyer to represent them may be too expensive. However, most personal injury lawyers today work on a contingency basis. This means you don’t pay unless they win a financial settlement for you.
If you have been hurt in a slip and fall accident because a store owner did not clean up a spill, there is help available. Contact a personal injury lawyer in your area to learn what options you may have available to you. Hiring a lawyer cannot erase your injuries or your suffering, but it may provide financial resources that can help you move forward with your life during recovery and beyond.