Personal Injury: Slips and Falls

Slips and falls, as described in personal injury cases, are much more than an embarrassment; they can result in serious injuries that can impact your life for years to come. If you slipped, fell, or tripped on someone else’s property because of their negligence, there’s a good chance that you can recover damages.

Although personal injury slip and fall laws vary from state to state, most jurisdictions distinguish between people who are called “invitees” (such as customers in a store), “licensees” (such as house guests), and “trespassers” (such as burglars). Typically, there’s a cause of action for invitees and licensees who are injured, as long as the condition is met that the property owner was aware of a dangerous condition and didn’t repair it or warn the visitor. This generally doesn’t apply for trespassers, but the property owner’s standard is more stringent when it comes to children who are at risk of injury.

Some states partially limit liability for the property owner through what’s known as “comparative fault.” In other words, when the person who has been injured is partially at fault, his or her personal injury award is reduced by a certain percentage.

Most often, personal injury claims are paid by the property owner’s insurance company. Victims often agree to settle for a sum that is far less than they need because an insurance adjuster has offered them what they call a “final settlement” and the victim believes they must take the offer or leave it. What most people don’t understand is that it’s the insurance company’s goal is to pay out the least amount possible. That’s why, before reviewing or signing a settlement agreement, it’s important to speak to an attorney who has experience with premises personal injury cases.

Lemberg & Associates’ attorneys have personal injury law experience and know what a reasonable settlement will be for your slip and fall injuries. We’ll take on the insurance companies and either negotiate a fair settlement or take the insurance company to court in order to get the compensation you deserve.