Delaware County Slip and Fall Lawyers
Slip and fall accidents are among the most common kinds of personal injury cases. These incidents occur in many locations, from grocery stores to parking lots, and often result from hazards like wet floors; the injuries range from mild to life-threatening. With the assistance of experienced legal professionals, individuals are often able to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages associated with their injuries.
Knowing what steps to take following a slip and fall and when to contact the right lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case. The skilled Delaware County slip and fall lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC play key roles in helping individuals pursue justice after these accidents and can answer any questions.
What Is Considered a Slip and Fall Accident?
A slip and fall accident occurs when someone loses their balance and falls due to a hazardous condition on someone else’s property. These incidents may happen indoors or outdoors and can result from conditions like wet or slippery surfaces, uneven flooring, debris, poor lighting, or icy sidewalks.
Property owners and managers have a duty to maintain safe conditions to prevent accidents. When they fail to address potential hazards or provide adequate warnings, they may be held legally responsible for injuries that occur.
To establish liability in a slip and fall case, it must be shown that the property owner or manager knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to take appropriate action to fix it. Additionally, it must be demonstrated that the injured party was lawfully on the property and took reasonable care to avoid the hazard. These elements are often central to determining whether a slip and fall claim is valid.
What Should I Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in Delaware County?
Taking the right steps after a slip and fall accident can help protect your rights and strengthen your case. First, seek medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor at the time. Some injuries, like head trauma or soft tissue damage, may not be immediately apparent but can have long-term effects. Medical records can establish the link between the accident and injuries, serving as important evidence in your case.
Next, report the incident to the property owner, manager, or another responsible party; request a written incident report and retain a copy for your records. If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, including any hazards that contributed to your fall, and gather contact information for any witnesses who observed the incident. These details can establish the cause of the accident and support your claim.
Our Delaware County slip and fall lawyers also recommend keeping detailed records of your medical treatment, lost income, and other expenses related to the accident. That information can provide a clear picture of the damages you have incurred and may be used to calculate the compensation you are entitled to seek.
How Is Fault Determined in a Slip and Fall Case?
Determining fault in a slip and fall case often requires a careful examination of the circumstances surrounding the accident. During the discovery phase, our legal team interviews witnesses, speaks extensively with clients, and gathers other evidence, like video camera footage. They can establish if the property owner’s negligence was the primary cause of the accident and advocate for fair compensation on behalf of their clients.
In some cases, the injured party’s actions may also be evaluated to determine whether they share any responsibility for the accident. For example, if an individual ignored warning signs or was not paying attention to their surroundings, their own negligence could impact the outcome of the case.
Pennsylvania follows a 51 percent comparative negligence rule, which means that your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident. When the percentage is 50 percent or more at fault for the accident, you will not be entitled to receive compensation.
What Types of Compensation Are Available in Slip and Fall Cases?
In a slip and fall case, compensation may be available for various damages, depending on the severity of the injuries and the impact they have had on the individual’s life. Common types of compensation include medical expenses, such as hospital bills, physical therapy, and prescription medications. If the injured party has been unable to work due to their injuries, they may also seek compensation for lost wages and loss of future earning capacity.
Pain and suffering damages may be awarded to compensate for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall reduction in quality of life caused by the accident. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the property owner’s actions were particularly reckless or egregious. Our Delaware County slip and fall lawyers can assess the full extent of your damages and pursue appropriate compensation.
What Role Do Lawyers Play in Slip and Fall Cases?
Lawyers who handle slip and fall cases provide a range of services to help individuals pursue justice after an accident. They investigate the circumstances of the incident, gather evidence, and assess the strength of the case.
Our Delaware County legal team also handles negotiations with insurance companies and opposing parties. If a settlement cannot be reached, we can represent clients in court and advocate for their rights. With our knowledge of premises liability laws and experience in handling similar cases, we can provide the support and guidance needed to pursue a successful outcome.
Let the Delaware County Slip and Fall Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC Fight to Protect Your Rights
If you were injured in a slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages. The Delaware County slip and fall lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC have extensive experience handling premises liability cases and are committed to helping clients seek justice. For a free consultation, call 215-569-8488 or submit our online form. Located in Philadelphia and Abington, Pennsylvania, and Wilmington, Delaware, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.