Experiencing and going through a slip-and-fall accident can be traumatizing. It can happen in the blink of an eye and can leave you severely injured. Navigating the aftermath of a slip and fall can leave individuals unsure of what to do next. Nevertheless, in Lansing, Michigan, there are ways to deal with slip-and-fall accidents. These include understanding your rights and the steps to take following such an incident. Knowing the law on slip and fall accidents is crucial for protecting your health and potential legal recourse. If you’ve been injured in a fall, knowing what steps to take next can protect your rights and strengthen your claim. A Lansing slip and fall lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Slip and fall accidents can easily result in severe injuries and long-term consequences. Even a simple accident can have dire consequences. This is why understanding the common causes of falls and the injuries that result is the first step in prevention. Knowing what causes accidental slips can also help build your case.
- Wet, slippery floors – Spills, leaks, and puddles can easily become slipping hazards. It’s best to mop these up to prevent falls.
- Uneven surfaces – Cracked sidewalks, potholes, broken steps, or uneven flooring can cause someone to trip. Such surfaces must be fixed to ensure no further damage to the property and to lessen the risk of falls.
- Poor lighting – Inadequate lighting, or the lack thereof, can make it difficult to see potential tripping hazards. Install light fixtures in areas devoid of natural light, like stairwells, to avoid slip-and-fall accidents.
- Clutter and debris – Objects left lying around can create tripping hazards. These are by far the easiest to fix. To prevent these from accumulating, make sure to pick up after yourself and your guests to avoid mishaps.
- Building code violations – Buildings with staircases without handrails and other code violations can pose a significant fall risk to guests. Such structures do not adhere to safety regulations and can contribute to fatal accidents.
- Weather conditions – Ice, snow, and sleet can make walkways and parking lots on the property extremely dangerous. Much like puddles and spills, this type of hazard can be remedied to prevent harm.
How to Prove a Slip and Fall Accident in Lansing, Michigan
To effectively prove a slip and fall claim in Lansing, the following conditions have to be met. Otherwise, your case may not go well.
The property owner had a duty of care: This simply means that the owner is responsible for maintaining the safety of their property.
The property owner breached their duty of care: This could be the owner’s failure to address an existing hazard or failing to inspect and maintain their property.
The breach of duty caused your fall: You must show a direct connection between their breach of duty and your fall.
You suffered damages as a result of the fall: This could be proven by presenting medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, and other related costs. You can ask your lawyer to help determine these.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
The amount of compensation you get varies from case to case. However, the types of damages you can claim remain constant. You will need a lawyer and a lot of evidence to back these up. You can claim compensation for the following:
Medical expenses: You can claim damages for past and future costs of treatment, rehabilitation, and medication.
Lost wages: Income not earned due to your injuries and recovery time after a slip and fall accident is also possible to compensate.
Pain and suffering: Compensation can also be received for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. However, this must be proven with solid evidence, may it be from doctors or other professional assessments.
Other damages: This can include property damage, transportation costs, and other out-of-pocket expenses if you are not at fault.
What to Do Immediately After a Slip and Fall Accident in Lansing
A slip-and-fall accident is not the easiest thing to deal with, as it can be exhausting and confusing. However, you should not panic; instead, follow these steps.
- Contact emergency services and get medical attention immediately.
- Report the incident to the authorities via the proper channels.
- Document the scene by taking pictures, videos, or recording the hazard that caused your fall.
- Gather witness statements from those around you and other kinds of information.
- Avoid admitting fault or talking too much without a lawyer present.
- Preserve as much evidence as possible, like the clothes you wore, CCTV recordings, etc.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as you can before giving your statements to the police.
- File an insurance claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party with the guidance of your slip-and-fall attorney.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Dealing with the legal complexities of slips and falls alone can be challenging. A skilled and experienced personal injury lawyer in Lansing is key to ensuring your rights are protected and your chances of winning your case are maximized. If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, contacting a personal injury lawyer is a very important step. Experienced personal injury attorneys can help you win your case and receive the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case with an experienced lawyer and explore your legal options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slip and Fall Accidents in Lansing
What should I do immediately after a slip and fall accident in Lansing?
After a slip and fall in Lansing, you should document the scene, report the incident to the property owner or manager, seek medical attention, and consult a Lansing slip and fall lawyer to protect your rights.
How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in Michigan?
Michigan law generally allows three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, certain exceptions may apply, so speaking with a Lansing slip and fall attorney as soon as possible is crucial.
Can I sue the City of Lansing for a slip and fall on public property?
Yes, but claims against government entities, such as the City of Lansing, have stricter deadlines and notice requirements. On some occasions they have governmental immunity. You may need to file a formal notice within 120 days of the incident. Consulting a Lansing slip and fall lawyer can help ensure you meet all legal deadlines.
What if I slipped and fell on a business property in Lansing?
If a business failed to maintain safe premises—such as leaving wet floors unmarked or not repairing hazardous conditions—you may have grounds for a premises liability claim. A Lansing slip and fall attorney can help you prove negligence and seek compensation.
How much is my Lansing slip and fall case worth?
The value of a slip and fall case depends on factors like medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impact. An experienced Lansing slip and fall lawyer can evaluate your case and help you pursue fair compensation.
Will my slip and fall case go to court in Lansing?
Most slip and fall cases settle out of court through negotiations, but if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit in Ingham County Circuit Court or another appropriate venue.
How can a Lansing slip and fall lawyer help me?
A local attorney understands Michigan’s premises liability laws and Lansing-specific factors that could impact your case. They will handle negotiations, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact The Clark Law Office Today
Don’t face the aftermath of a slip and fall accident alone. Contact The Clark Law Office today for a free consultation! With our law firm’s help, you can get the justice and compensation you deserve. Our personal injury lawyers have a deep understanding of the complexities of Michigan law and are dedicated to helping accident victims like you. We can provide you with compassionate but effective legal representation to help you through this difficult time. Call us today!
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