Slip & Fall Attorneys
Protecting Victims of Slip & Fall Accidents
Premise Liability Lawyers
Slip and fall accidents, also known as premises liability cases, occur when a property owner fails to maintain a safe environment, resulting in injuries to visitors. These accidents can happen on both public and private property, including retail stores, offices, restaurants, and residences. At Oliver Bell Group, our experienced slip and fall attorneys are dedicated to holding negligent property owners accountable and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, it is crucial to understand your rights. Call or message our office today for a free consultation with a knowledgeable slip and fall lawyer to learn how we can assist you in your claim.
Common Causes of Slip & Fail Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can result from various hazardous conditions. Property owners have a duty to ensure their premises are safe for visitors. Common causes of slip and fall accidents include:
- Uneven, Wet, or Icy Floors: Unmarked slippery floors or failure to remove snow and ice in a timely manner.
- Holes or Cracks in Infrastructure: Defective sidewalks, potholes, and uneven pavement.
- Failure to Warn: Lack of proper signage to alert visitors to dangerous conditions such as wet floors or construction zones.
- Missing, Loose, or Broken Safety Features: Malfunctioning handrails or guardrails can cause severe falls.
- Poor Lighting: Insufficient lighting leads to trip hazards being obscured or unnoticed.
- Objects in Walkways: Debris, merchandise, or other items carelessly left in walkways
If you have been injured due to any of these conditions, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim. Contact an experienced slip and fall attorney at Oliver Bell Group to discuss your case and seek compensation for your injuries.
Understanding the “Open and Obvious” Defense in Michigan and Texas
In Michigan, the “open and obvious” defense often comes into play in slip and fall cases. Historically, this legal doctrine allowed property owners to avoid liability if the hazardous condition causing the fall was considered open and obvious to a reasonable person, and this decision was made by the presiding judge
However, in recent years, the Michigan Supreme Court has made significant changes, allowing certain premises liability cases to be decided by a jury even if the hazard was visible. This shift creates more opportunities for injured parties to recover compensation, but it also makes it essential to have an experienced slip and fall lawyer by your side to navigate this complex legal landscape.
Texas Law: In Texas, while the “open and obvious” doctrine is also recognized, the courts have similar flexibility in allowing claims to proceed based on the circumstances surrounding the case. An experienced slip and fall attorney can help navigate these nuances.
When Open and Obvious Does not Apply:
If you’ve been harmed by a defective drug, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Unusual Circumstances: Even if the hazard is open and obvious, the property owner can still be held liable if the condition was unusually dangerous or if the risk of harm was unreasonably high.
- Distracting Factors: If the victim was distracted by something the property owner was responsible for, such as signs or displays, this may override the open and obvious defense.
- Special Relationship: If the visitor was vulnerable (elderly or disabled) and the property owner knew or should have known this, they may still be liable for injuries
At Oliver Bell Group, our slip and fall attorneys stay updated on the latest legal developments in both Michigan and Texas’s premises liability law. We can evaluate your case and help you build a strong argument, regardless of the open and obvious defense.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Slip & Fall Cases
What Should I Do After a Slip and Fall Accident?
- After a slip and fall accident, it is important to take the following steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you do not feel immediate pain, some injuries may not be apparent right away.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures of the hazardous conditions that caused the fall, such as wet floors, poor lighting, or broken safety features.
- Report the Incident: Notify the property owner or manager and ensure the accident is documented.
- Collect Witness Information: If anyone saw the fall, get their contact information for future reference.
- Contact a Slip and Fall Attorney: Consult with one of our slip and fall attorneys to understand your legal options.
How Much is a Slip and Fall Case Worth?
The value of a slip and fall case depends on several factors, including the severity of your personal injury, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced slip and fall lawyer can estimate the potential compensation you may be entitled to based on your specific circumstances.
Are Slip and Fall Cases Hard to Win?
Slip and fall cases can be challenging because you need to prove that the property owner was negligent and that their negligence directly caused your injury. However, with the right slip and fall attorney, you can build a strong case by gathering evidence, documenting injuries, and demonstrating how the property owner failed in their duty to maintain a safe environment.
How Can I Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls in the Workplace?
Workplace safety is crucial. Here are some tips to prevent slips and falls:
- Maintain Clean Work Areas: Keep walkways clear of obstacles and spills.
- Install Proper Lighting: Ensure all areas are lit well to reduce trip hazards.
- Use Safety Signs: Place warning signs in areas with slippery floors or uneven surfaces.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Use non-slip shoes if you work in environments prone to wet or slippery conditions
Call or Message for a Free Consultation
If you were injured in a slip and fall accident, do not wait to seek legal assistance. At Oliver Bell Group, our experienced slip and fall attorneys are dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and get started on the path to recovery.
