If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall in Philadelphia, our lawyer is ready to fight for your rights and hold the property owner accountable.
Property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe through regular maintenance. Unfortunately, many decide to cut corners and skimp on required upkeep, keeping more money in their pockets while visitors unknowingly pay the price. From retail stores to landlords, Philadelphia property owners must ensure their property is free from safety hazards. When they fail to do their due diligence, they must be held accountable.
Too often, property owners put profits over people, and slip and fall victims learn this the hard way. If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident due to a property owner’s carelessness or negligence, you deserve answers, accountability, and justice.
At (215) GOT-HURT, we’ve worked closely with slip and fall victims like you to help secure maximum compensation for your accident and prevent it from ever happening again. We’ve listened to our client’s stories and leveraged our extensive experience in and out of the courtroom to hold the negligent property owners liable and defend our client’s rights and best interests every step of the way.
It’s essential to consult with a knowledgeable Philadelphia accident attorney at (215) GOT-HURT as soon as possible after an accident to ensure that you meet legal deadlines and gather relevant evidence while it's still fresh. Choosing a local attorney experienced in handling personal injury cases in Philadelphia is essential for a complete recovery and secure financial future.
Most slip and fall attorneys are looking for a settlement for their clients. However, that may not be enough. With our trial experience and history with insurance defense, we’ve been on both sides and know precisely how to navigate your claim for maximum compensation, in or out of the courtroom.
Our Philadelphia slip and fall lawyers at (215) GOT-HURT have valuable experience in insurance defense, making them especially well-versed in tactics insurance companies use to blame claimants for their accidents to minimize their payout. Insurance companies may claim they care about you after your accident, but unfortunately, this isn’t true. Instead, they want to encourage you to open up about your accident so they can use what you say against you and maximize their profit. Our slip and fall attorneys will communicate and negotiate with insurance companies and ensure you won’t be exploited.
If property owners and their insurance companies do not cooperate after your slip and fall accident, we are prepared to take them to court. With our trial experience, you can rest assured that we are equipped and ready to protect and defend your rights and bring your case to justice, no matter what it takes.
At (215) GOT-HURT, we believe that the service and support you receive throughout the duration of your case are just as important as the case itself. That’s why we make ourselves available throughout the entire process to answer all your questions and provide regular updates on your case’s progress so you’re never left guessing. You can also count on our dedicated staff to give you the attention and stewardship you deserve every step of the way.
A slip and fall attorney at (215) GOT-HURT can assist you in several ways after being injured in a slip and fall accident in Philadelphia. This includes:
A slip and fall accident attorney can provide you with a clear understanding of your rights and the legal options available. This includes explaining relevant laws and statutes that apply to your case.
Attorneys experienced in slip and fall cases know how to conduct thorough investigations. They can gather evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident reports to strengthen your case.
Determining who is liable for your injuries is crucial in slip and fall cases. Your slip and fall lawyer will assess your accident's circumstances to identify negligent parties, whether a property owner, business establishment, or another party is responsible for maintaining safe premises.
Slip and fall attorneys are skilled negotiators who can engage with insurance companies or opposing parties on your behalf. They will strive for a fair settlement that compensates you for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your attorney can represent you in court. They will advocate for your rights and present your case effectively before a judge and jury.
Slip and fall cases involve significant paperwork and documentation. Your slip and fall injury attorney will handle all legal paperwork, ensuring that deadlines are met and documents are filed correctly.
A slip and fall attorney may assist with scheduling treatment with medical professionals who can provide you with the necessary care and treatment for your injuries.
Overall, hiring a slip and fall attorney can help you navigate the complicated legal process, help ensure that you receive maximum compensation, and let you focus on your recovery while they handle the legal aspects of your case.
When we say we will protect your rights, what exactly does that mean? As a slip and fall accident victim, you have certain rights, which may vary depending on your case's jurisdiction and specific circumstances. Here are some general rights you typically have:
Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to hire a slip and fall attorney to represent you in your personal injury claim. An experienced attorney can provide legal guidance, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and advocate for your rights in court if necessary.
Right to Gather Evidence: You have the right to gather evidence to support your personal injury claim. This may include taking photographs of the accident scene, obtaining witness statements, and collecting medical records documenting your injuries and treatment.
Right to Fair Treatment by Insurance Companies: Insurance companies must handle your claim in good faith and fairly evaluate your damages. You have the right to expect they will not engage in bad faith practices such as denying valid claims or offering unreasonably low settlements.
Right to Compensation for Your Damages: If you can prove that another party's negligence caused your slip and fall accident and resulting injuries, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. This compensation is intended to help you recover and move forward after the accident.
Right to a Safe Environment: While not directly related to your legal rights as an accident victim, you have the right to expect that property owners and managers will maintain safe premises and take reasonable precautions to prevent slip and fall accidents in the future.
It's essential to consult with a qualified slip and fall attorney to fully understand your rights and options after a slip and fall accident. They can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Slip and fall accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity depending on factors such as the individual's age, health condition, and fall circumstances. Some common injuries include:
Fractures. Broken bones, particularly in the wrists, arms, hips, and ankles, are common in slip and fall accidents, especially among older adults.
Head injuries. Falls can cause head trauma, including concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and skull fractures. Head injuries can have serious and long-term consequences, including cognitive impairment and neurological deficits.
Soft tissue injuries. Sprains, strains, and tears in muscles, tendons, and ligaments are common in slip and fall accidents. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
Back and spinal cord injuries. Falls can result in injuries to the back and spinal cord, including herniated discs, spinal fractures, and spinal cord compression. Severe spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis or loss of sensation and function below the injury site.
Bruises and contusions. Impact with hard surfaces during a fall can cause bruises, contusions, and hematoma (localized bleeding). While these injuries are generally less severe, they can still cause pain and discomfort.
Cuts and lacerations. Falls can result in cuts and lacerations, particularly if the individual lands on sharp objects or broken glass. Depending on the severity, these injuries may require stitches or medical attention to prevent infection.
Dislocations. Falls can cause joints to become dislocated, particularly in the shoulders, elbows, knees, and hips. Dislocations can cause intense pain and may require medical intervention to reset the joint.
Emotional trauma. In addition to physical injuries, slip and fall accidents can also cause emotional distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), especially if the individual experiences a fear of falling or a loss of confidence in their mobility.
It's essential to seek medical attention promptly after a slip and fall accident, even if injuries initially seem minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure proper treatment and recovery. Documenting injuries and seeking legal advice, if necessary, can help individuals protect their rights and pursue compensation for their damages.
By addressing these common causes and implementing appropriate safety measures, property owners and managers can help reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents and ensure the safety of visitors and employees. Slip and fall accidents can occur due to various factors, but some common causes include:
Failure to properly maintain premises, including neglecting repairs, not fixing broken tiles or steps, or ignoring other hazards, can lead to slip and fall accidents.
Lack of proper employee training in maintaining safe premises or failure to supervise activities that could create hazards can contribute to slip and fall incidents.
Spills, leaks, freshly mopped floors, or recently waxed surfaces can create slippery conditions, increasing the risk of slips and falls.
Cracks in sidewalks, uneven flooring, loose floorboards, or potholes in parking lots can cause individuals to trip and fall.
Failure to provide warning signs for hazardous conditions such as wet floors or uneven surfaces can contribute to slip and fall accidents.
Rain, ice, snow, or debris accumulation can create slippery indoor and outdoor conditions, increasing the risk of falls.
Poorly lit areas can obscure hazards and increase the likelihood of slips, trips, and falls, especially in stairwells, parking lots, or dimly lit hallways.
Wearing inappropriate footwear, such as high heels, slippery shoes, or shoes with worn-out soles, can reduce traction and stability, increasing the risk of slipping and falling.
The absence or improper installation of handrails or guardrails on stairs, ramps, or elevated platforms can contribute to falls, especially for individuals with mobility issues or balance difficulties.
Objects left in walkways, such as cables, cords, merchandise, or debris, can obstruct paths and increase the risk of tripping and falling.
After a slip and fall accident, it's crucial to take specific steps to protect your health, document the incident, and preserve evidence for any potential legal claims. Here's what you should do:
By taking these steps, you can protect your health, preserve critical evidence, and position yourself to pursue a successful personal injury claim if necessary.
Preventing slip and fall accidents requires awareness, proactive measures, and maintenance of safe environments. Whether you’re a property owner or simply trying to avoid a slip and fall, here are some tips to help prevent slip and fall accidents:
Keep walkways clear. Regularly remove clutter, debris, and obstacles from walkways, corridors, and staircases to prevent tripping hazards.
Maintain proper lighting. Ensure that indoor and outdoor areas are well-lit, especially in stairwells, hallways, entrances, and parking lots, to improve visibility and reduce the risk of falls.
Address wet or slippery surfaces promptly. Clean up spills promptly, use signage to warn of wet floors, and consider installing slip-resistant flooring in areas prone to moisture.
Use non-slip mats or rugs. Place non-slip mats or rugs where moisture or spills are common, such as entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms, to provide traction and reduce slipping hazards.
Wear appropriate footwear. Choose footwear with slip-resistant soles and proper support to improve stability and traction, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
Install handrails or guardrails. Install handrails along staircases, ramps, and walkways, and use guardrails in elevated areas to provide support and prevent falls.
Maintain outdoor surfaces. Keep outdoor pathways, sidewalks, and parking lots clear of snow, ice, and debris during inclement weather, and repair cracks or uneven surfaces to prevent tripping hazards.
Be mindful of environmental conditions. Be aware of environmental factors such as weather conditions, changes in terrain, and low visibility, and adjust your pace and footing accordingly to reduce the risk of falls.
Use caution on uneven surfaces. Exercise caution when walking on uneven surfaces, such as gravel paths or construction sites, and use handrails or other supports if available.
Practice good housekeeping. Regularly clean and maintain floors, stairs, and other walking surfaces to prevent the buildup of dust, debris, or slippery substances that could cause falls.
Educate and train employees. Train employees on proper safety protocols, hazard identification, and safe work practices to reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents in the workplace.
By implementing these preventive measures and promoting a culture of safety awareness, you can help reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents and create safer environments for yourself and others.
Slip and fall accidents can occur in various settings, but ten of the most common locations where they frequently happen include:
Individuals and property owners can take proactive measures to address hazards and reduce the risk of injuries by identifying common locations where slip and fall accidents occur.
After a slip and fall accident caused by the negligence of another party, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, depending on the specific circumstances of your case and the laws in your jurisdiction. Some common types of compensation you could seek include:
Compensation for past, current, and future medical expenses related to your slip and fall injuries, including hospital bills, doctor's visits, surgery, medication, rehabilitation therapy, and assistive devices such as crutches or wheelchairs.
Reimbursement for wages lost due to time missed from work while recovering from your injuries. This may include compensation for past and future lost earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to work or reduce earning capacity.
Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by your slip and fall injuries. This type of compensation is intended to compensate you for the physical and emotional hardships you have endured due to the accident.
Additional compensation for any permanent disability, disfigurement, or loss of limb or bodily function resulting from your slip and fall injuries. This may include compensation for the impact of your injuries on your quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.
Compensation for the loss of companionship, support, and services of a spouse or family member who has been injured in a slip and fall accident. The spouse or family member of the injured party typically seeks this type of compensation.
Reimbursement for any property damage resulting from the slip and fall accident, such as damage to clothing, eyeglasses, or personal belongings.
In cases involving particularly egregious or reckless conduct by the negligent party, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These damages are intended to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future.
It's important to note that the types and amount of compensation you may be entitled to can vary depending on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the extent of your financial losses, and the strength of your case. Consulting with a qualified slip and fall attorney can help you understand your rights and pursue the full compensation you deserve for your damages.
Deciding whether to sue a friend or neighbor after suffering a slip and fall on their property can be a complex and sensitive matter. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:
Insurance coverage. In many cases, the property owner's homeowner's insurance or renter's insurance policy covers compensation for slip and fall injuries. Filing a claim with their insurance company may be the first step in seeking compensation for your injuries, and it may not require directly suing your friend or neighbor.
Relationship dynamics. Consider the nature of your relationship with the property owner. Suing a friend or neighbor can strain relationships and create tension, especially if they were not directly responsible for causing the accident. Open communication and understanding may be vital in navigating this situation.
Legal responsibility. Assess whether the property owner was legally responsible (i.e., negligent) for your slip and fall injuries. Property owners have to maintain safe premises and warn visitors of known hazards. You may have grounds for a legal claim if they breached this duty and their negligence contributed to your injuries.
Financial implications. Consider the financial impact of pursuing legal action. Lawsuits can be time-consuming, expensive, and emotionally draining. Evaluate whether the potential compensation outweighs the costs and whether other options, such as settlement negotiations or mediation, may be more appropriate.
Statute of limitations. Be mindful of the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in your jurisdiction. Failing to file a claim within the specified time frame could result in losing your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
Whether to sue a friend or neighbor after a slip and fall accident depends on your circumstances, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your financial losses, and your relationship with the property owner. Consulting with a qualified personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options and decide how to proceed. They can also guide alternative dispute resolution methods that may preserve relationships while allowing you to seek compensation for your damages.
I've had a great experience with Steven's firm. They are competent, responsive and professional. I enjoyed interacting with the office members (especially Gail G.). Thanks for all your help!
Navigating a slip and fall accident in Philadelphia can be complicated, awkward, and downright painful. Fortunately, you don’t have to go through it alone, and our compassionate Philadelphia slip and fall accident attorneys are here to help. We will thoroughly investigate your slip and fall accident, gather crucial evidence, and handle communication with insurance companies to help secure maximum compensation that covers the full scope of your injuries, damages, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Together, we will bring your slip and fall case to justice as you focus on your recovery. Speak with us for free today to review your rights and legal options.
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Slip and fall accidents in Philadelphia can result in serious injuries. If you’ve experienced one, take the proper steps: seek medical attention, document the scene, and report the incident. Know the common causes, from wet floors to poor lighting, and understand your right to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Contact (215) GOT-HURT for help navigating your claim and advocating for your rights.
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