Slip and fall injury lawsuits

Slip and fall injury lawsuits can be very difficult to argue in front of a judge and jury; the burden of the evidence weighs heavy on the Plaintiffs in these cases. It’s hard to substantiate the facts of the case (as in, how long was the ice cream sitting on the grocery store floor before you slipped on it?); it’s also hard to prove that you weren’t just clumsy, as the Defendant’s lawyers will argue. But the law requires businesses to honor certain safety expectations as soon as you enter their property; the business or property owner has a duty to use “reasonable care,” keeping the premises in a safe condition for you (as their invited customer).

Known as “premises liability” cases, slip and fall lawsuits require a few crucial pieces to be successful. If you do unfortunately fall and injure yourself in a commercial space, immediately speak with any store employees that are around (presumably, if you are very badly injured, help will come to you); ensure an employee or manager documents your fall, and takes your statement. Ask for a copy of any incident reports made or notes taken, and also ask what the store policy for cleaning spills and monitoring for hazards is. Usually, it’s better not to talk to managers in this sort of situation—non-managerial employees will be more forthcoming with information. Also, get the contact information of the employees you talk to, and if there were witnesses to your accident, speak with them too (and exchange information). Use your cell phone’s camera to photograph the accident scene; document the substance that caused you to slip, the area, and any lack of signs or CCTV cameras. If the store’s manager won’t provide you with a copy of the incident report, take a photo of it; at the very least, you’ll be able to call out any visual discrepancies that surface later. As soon as you can, write down some notes about what happened, while the fall is still very clear in your mind. All of these steps translate into evidence that will bolster your case.

If medical attention is necessary, immediately go to your doctor’s office or a local hospital. Winning a slip and fall case requires demonstrating a documented injury which was followed by prompt treatment. Your doctor might instruct you to continue treatment, like physical therapy or massage; follow through on this, even if it’s a steep expense—in court, a solid record of treatment presents the most complete and effective case.

Finally, talk to a qualified personal injury attorney as soon as possible—these types of cases require expedient legal counsel. If you or someone you care for has suffered an injury as a result of negligence, you have options.  Contact 844 See Mike, at 312-224-4695 for a free consultation.  We are a Chicago injury law firm representing individuals and families who have suffered an injury or loss due to an accident.  844SeeMike Personal Injury Lawyers, will handle your personal injury case quickly, will advise you every step of the way, and will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case.  Our no-fee promise is that simple.  Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire us–just the opportunity to seek justice.