Slip-and-fall accidents happen unexpectedly and often result in serious injuries. If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident in Baton Rouge because of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Our experienced Baton Rouge slip-and-fall accident lawyers are here to help understand your rights while we fight for them.
Common Causes of Slip-and-Fall Accidents in Baton Rouge
It’s important to understand the common causes of slip-and-fall accidents so you can better identify who is truly liable. Here are some of the common causes we see every day:
- Wet or Slippery Floors: Spills, mopping, or leaks that aren’t properly marked with warning signs
- Uneven or Damaged Surfaces: Cracked sidewalks, potholes, broken pavement, or uneven flooring
- Inadequate Lighting: Poorly lit areas, especially in stairways or parking lots, that make it difficult to see hazards
- Cluttered Walkways: Debris, boxes, or other objects obstructing walkways in stores, offices, or other properties
- Weather-Related Hazards: Rain, ice, or snow accumulation on sidewalks or entryways that aren’t cleared in a timely manner
Common Injuries Resulting From Slip-and-Fall Accidents
Slip-and-fall accidents can lead to a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Common injuries include:
- Broken Bones: Fractures are common in slip-and-fall cases.
- Head Injuries: These include concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and other head trauma from hitting the ground or nearby objects.
- Back and Spine Injuries: Slips and falls can result in severe back and spinal cord injuries like herniated discs or paralysis.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and ligament damage are frequent results of slip-and-fall accidents.
- Bruises and Lacerations: Cuts, scrapes, and bruising are common during falls as well.
Determining Liability in Baton Rouge Slip-and-Fall Cases
Establishing liability is the most critical aspect of slip-and-fall cases. Without proving fault, there’s no case. An experienced Baton Rouge premises liability lawyer is essential to this process.
To prove liability in a slip-and-fall case, it must be demonstrated that the property owner was aware of the hazardous condition and either failed to fix it or did not warn visitors of the danger. Liability can apply to various types of properties, including residential areas, commercial businesses, public spaces, and government-owned properties.
Additionally, under Louisiana’s comparative negligence law, if the injured party is partially at fault, their compensation could be reduced proportional to their percentage of fault. An experienced lawyer knows how to fight to minimize any reduction in your compensation.
Our slip-and-fall lawyers can help prove liability by gathering critical evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and other records related to the property and its maintenance. We can also work with experts to reconstruct the accident and build a strong case against the property owner for their negligence.
Proving a Slip-and-Fall Case
Here are several key elements involved in proving negligence in a slip-and-fall case:
- Gathering Evidence: This involves collecting incident reports, medical records, witness statements, and surveillance footage.
- Expert Testimony: In some cases, experts in areas such as safety, building codes, or medical treatment may assist in proving liability.
- Insurance Claims and Negotiation: Dealing with property owners’ insurance companies can be complex, so having an experienced lawyer is essential to ensuring your rights are protected.
- Going to Court if Needed: If a fair settlement is not achieved, a lawsuit may be necessary. Our team is prepared to fight for the maximum compensation for you in court if needed.
Steps to Take After a Slip-and-Fall Accident
If you’ve been involved in a slip-and-fall accident, taking these steps can help protect your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Get immediate treatment for injuries and document everything involving your medical situation, including the extent of your injuries. This ensures that you get the care you need and that there’s an official record of your injuries.
- Report the Incident: Report the fall to the property owner or manager and be sure to get a copy of the accident report.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the entire scene, the area where the accident occurred, and any visible injuries.
- Gather Witness Information: Collect the contact information of anyone who saw the fall or witnessed the poor conditions of the property.
- Contact a Slip-and-Fall Lawyer: Legal representation is crucial to protect your rights and maximize compensation.
Compensation for Slip-and-Fall Victims in Baton Rouge
Victims of slip-and-fall accidents may be entitled to the following forms of compensation:
- Medical Expenses: Covering costs of hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future medical care
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to the injury, including recovery time
- Loss of Earning Capacity: For injuries that lead to permanent disabilities or prevent the victim from returning to their previous job
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Reimbursement for costs associated with the injury, such as transportation to medical appointments or home modifications for mobility
Why Choose Our Baton Rouge Slip-and-Fall Lawyers
The experienced Baton Rouge slip-and-fall lawyers at Dudley DeBosier can conduct a thorough investigation and gather evidence to build a strong case on your behalf. We work to identify how the property owner’s negligence caused your accident, then deal directly with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. If a fair settlement cannot be reached and your case goes to court, our extensive trial experience will help you achieve the best possible outcome.
By choosing Dudley DeBosier, you will benefit from our:
Proven Track Record: We have a history of successful outcomes in slip-and-fall cases.
Client-Focused Approach: We prioritize your unique needs and keep you informed throughout the legal process.
No Fee Guarantee: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay us nothing unless we get you money.
Extensive Knowledge of Louisiana Law: Our deep understanding of local laws and regulations gives you an advantage.
Contact Our Baton Rouge Slip-and-Fall Lawyers Today
Don’t take on your slip-and-fall accident claim alone. Contact our Baton Rouge slip-and-fall lawyers today for a free consultation and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.
