A slip and fall accident can mean serious bodily injury, mounting medical bills, and possibly chronic pain and distress. If you've been hurt in a slip and fall, it’s best to contact a personal injury attorney soon after for guidance on a potential claim. Below is an overview of these claims and how a personal injury attorney will help you get the compensation you need and deserve.

What Constitutes a Slip & Fall Accident?

A slip and fall case involves a victim who slips or trips and falls to the ground while on another person's property. In most situations, the owner of the property has not properly tended to the existing issue that caused the fall, which may make them legally liable for any damages incurred. Examples of these situations include:

• A driveway or walkway that has not been adequately shoveled or de-iced
• A spill that has not been cleaned up or posted with signage alerting passersby of the spill
• A damaged floor or walkway that has not been fixed or cordoned off by safety warnings

Establishing Liability

Slip and fall claims fall under the jurisdictions of premises liability. An individual injured in a premises liability claim must submit adequate proof that the owner of the property was negligent in their duty to provide a safe environment. While establishing liability can be tricky, some evidence can support a victim's position, such as photos of the accident scene, medical records, and eyewitness testimony.

How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help?

A personal injury attorney understands the complexities of slip and fall cases. Their goal is to show that a reasonable person would have been aware of the danger and taken appropriate steps to prevent it; this aims to place responsibility on the premises owner. A lawyer will build this argument by compiling evidence and launching an investigation into the accident scene. They will also handle all the paperwork and legal filings associated with the case and assign a dollar value to your claim that ensures you get the necessary resources.

If you've been injured in a slip and fall, let MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C. help. For over 130 years, they have been serving Orange County, New York, in a variety of legal issues, including personal injuries, civil and commercial litigation, and DWI law cases. Call (845) 343-3000 or visit them online to arrange a consultation with a personal injury attorney.