Finding Evidence For A Solid Slip And Fall Accident Claim in California
It's easy to blame slip and fall accidents on personal carelessness. However, it could be that you got into an accident because the owner or manager of the premises didn't address the present hazards in the first place.
That said, you can sue for slip and fall accidents in California. You only need to find evidence and build a solid claim.
Slip and fall accidents in California can happen in multiple ways, including:
Cobblestones, pavement, or walkways that are uneven damaged, or cracked
Cobblestones, wet or slippery surfaces, or sidewalks
Open grates or unmarked potholes on a sidewalk
Driveways with a steep slope
Bad lighting
Blocked aisles in stores
Flooring that is slick or wet due to liquid spills, ice, snow, rain, or other precipitation
Uneven or small steps or stairs
Inadequate or missing railings
Unsafe railings or balconies
Changes to the flooring and torn carpet
Curbs, obstructions, or potholes that are obscured or buried
Exposed roots from trees
Ground-level wires or cords
Low-hanging wires or cord
Road, bridge, sidewalk, and walkway construction risks, including dropped objects
If you've been injured for any of the above reasons, you should consult with a Slip and Fall Lawyer in California ASAP. They'll be able to collect and compile your evidence, so they can get you the compensation you need to fully recover from your injuries.
What Losses Are Recoverable In A Slip-and-Fall Liability Case?
Compensation for the following expenses can be recovered from the negligent property owner in a slip and fall injury lawsuit:
Bodily impairment, emotional distress, and pain and suffering
Hospital, medical, and incidental costs
Lost earnings and earning potential
Punitive damages when flagrant or extreme misbehavior occurs
If you contributed to the accident, you could still be able to claim damages against the property owner, but your reward will be smaller financially.
A California wrongful death case may be filed by the surviving spouse, children, or other family members of a person who passed away due to the slip and fall event. The decedent's loved ones may file a claim for financial support, hospital, funeral, and burial costs, as well as the loss of the decedent's companionship, love, and devotion.
What Do I Do If I Get Hurt on Someone Else's Property?
Collect proof of the hazardous situation. Before someone goes out and repairs the issue, it's vital to document it, revealing the physical characteristics of the substance's height, width, depth, and nature.
Here are a few ways to ensure maximum compensation for your slip and fall injuries in California:
1. Collect Evidence
Put your shoes away. Do not put on the shoes you were wearing when you fell again after falling. They might have signs of oil or other debris on the bottom, although those signs could be removed with time and use. Your Slip and Fall Lawyer in California might need to hire a professional to look at the shoes. Experts frequently examine the amount of traction on the bottom of your shoes at the time of your fall.
Request CCTV footage/videos. Request that the property owners keep any video. Any case may require video evidence. In other cases, video has been crucial evidence that has resulted in a settlement or a trial win.
2. Document Your Injuries
Take pictures of your injury. Even if you did not require hospitalization straight after falling, you should still go visit a doctor. Some injuries could not become apparent for days following the collision. You must have medical proof of your injuries to receive compensation for your fall.
Get checked by a medical professional. Not only will this help you recover, but getting your injuries documented in a medical report is a way to preserve their evidence. Medical reports are thorough, showing the severity and locations of your injuries even when you've started to heal.
3. Be Aware Of Your Deadlines
If you have been hurt, you must act fast because, if you are an adult, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. However, the statute of limitations in California is only six months for claims launched against cities, counties, public institutions, school districts, public universities, etc.
4. Don't Agree To Low Insurance Payouts Immediately
You are not required to speak with any of the property owner's insurance agents. Remember that insurance companies aim to maximize profit by reducing or refusing claim payouts. The insurance salesperson will probably record your conversation. The agent can persuade you to say something that releases the property owner from responsibility or minimizes your losses.
Be aware that many property insurance plans feature a no-fault provision that gives a person hurt on the property money to assist in covering their medical costs. The term for it is medical payments coverage. To be paid under this coverage, you are not required to release any other possible claims. So don't sign any waivers or releases.
Seek Help from the Best Slip and Fall Lawyer in California Right Now!
Our prescreened Slip and Fall Lawyer in California has helped plaintiffs get the payouts and representation they deserve. We ensure you're matched up with a California lawyer with the right expertise, experience, and reputation.
Contact us on our 24/7 lawyer referral hotline at 1-661-310-7999 or complete our inquiry submission form for a FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION.
