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You have a right to expect to be safe from potential hazards when visiting a business or on someone’s property. After all, it is the responsibility of property owners or managers to ensure that customers and visitors are free from harm. But when property owners fail to uphold this duty, dangerous accidents can occur – including slip and falls.
If you were injured in a slip and fall accident on someone’s property, you might be entitled to compensation for your losses. To pursue the financial relief you deserve, you need the help and resources of an experienced Alexandria premises liability lawyer.
At Marks & Harrison, our legal team has long helped people injured in slip-and fall-accidents seek the money they need to move forward with their lives. We can evaluate your case and outline your legal options during a free consultation. Contact our Alexandria, VA slip and fall lawyers today to get started.
How Common Are Slip and Fall Accidents?
Slip and fall accidents are unfortunately common in the United States. Data from the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI) indicates that slip and fall accidents account for more than a million emergency room visits nationwide each year. Slip and fall accidents are also the leading cause of lost days from work. Although some falls may seem minor, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the U.S.
Are Older People More Vulnerable to Fall Injuries?
Older adults are more prone to slip and fall accidents than younger individuals. As people age, coordination declines, the muscles in the lower body weaken, and the sense of balance becomes impaired. These changes make it much more likely for an older person to lose their balance and fall, especially when conditions are treacherous. Vision problems and medication use can also contribute to an increased risk of falls among older adults.
According to the CDC, an estimated three million adults over age 65 in the U.S. visit emergency rooms for fall-related injuries annually. Traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and hip fractures are the most common injuries reported in these accidents.
How Do You Prove Liability for a Slip and Fall Accident?
Proving liability for a slip and fall accident depends on presenting evidence showing that the property owner or manager is responsible for your injuries.
Slip and fall accidents fall under the legal theory of premises liability. To recover compensation in a premises liability claim, you typically must provide evidence that the property owner was obligated to keep the premises safe or warn you of unsafe conditions but didn’t – resulting in your injuries.
In Virginia, all property owners have to keep their premises reasonably safe. However, their duty of care will depend on your status as a visitor:
- Invitees – Property owners owe the highest duty of care to invitees, such as customers at stores and restaurants. For invitees, property owners must eliminate known hazards on the premises and warn them of any unsafe conditions.
- Licensees – Licensees lawfully enter a property for their benefit, such as social guests at someone’s home. Property owners owe licensees a lesser duty of care but must warn them of unsafe conditions.
- Trespassers – Trespassers are not owed a duty of care in Virginia. However, property owners are prohibited from intentionally harming trespassers on their property.
What Is My Slip and Fall Case Worth?
The unique circumstances of your slip and fall accident determine the value of your case. At Marks & Harrison, we can review the severity of your injuries, the cause of the accident, and other factors to establish what your case may be worth. Generally, an individual injured in a slip and fall accident may seek compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses related to treating your slip and fall injuries, including hospital stays, doctor’s visits, physical therapy, medication, and medical equipment
- Lost wages if your injury prevents you from working
- Loss of future earning capacity if your injury results in a permanent disability or impairment that prevents you from returning to your job or seeking gainful employment
- Mental anguish caused by the injuries you have suffered
- Loss of quality of life from disfigurement or permanent scarring
- Physical pain and suffering brought on by your injuries
What Is the Deadline for Filing My Slip and Fall Accident Lawsuit?
We understand that the idea of taking legal action while you are healing from injuries might be overwhelming. However, the deadline for filing a slip and fall accident lawsuit in Virginia is just two years from the date of the accident. If you miss the two-year deadline, a court can dismiss your case. Speaking to a premises liability lawyer at Marks & Harrison immediately after a slip and fall is crucial to ensure that you protect your legal rights.
How Can an Attorney Help After a Slip and Fall in Alexandria?
At Marks & Harrison, we understand how injuries from a slip and fall accident can change your life. Our experienced team has the resources to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. We will take the time to thoroughly investigate the cause of the accident and gather evidence to support your case.
We will aim to hold the careless property owner accountable and pursue justice for you, including financial relief you need to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other losses. Whether we negotiate a settlement with an insurer or prepare a case for trial, you can rest assured that we will work tirelessly to pursue the most favorable outcome possible for your situation.
Our Alexandria, VA Slip and Fall Lawyers Are Ready to Help You
Have you been injured on someone’s property? Do not wait to seek justice for your slip and fall accident. Discuss your situation today with a knowledgeable Alexandria premises liability lawyer at Marks & Harrison. Contact us today and learn about your rights and options in a free consultation.
