Many people think that only elderly people are at risk for slipping and falling. The reality is that anyone can slip and fall at any time. Slip and fall accidents often catch people off guard. It could be a loose grape in the produce aisle, standing rainwater in front of a coffee shop, or water on a pool deck. Many things can cause us to slip and lose our balance. The consequences can be devastating, including extensive injuries.
Fortunately, those who have slipped and fallen have options. One thing that you can do is contact a trusted attorney who has helped clients get the financial assistance they need following slip and fall incidents. Here is more information about the classic features of slip and fall cases and what you can expect if you decide to file a lawsuit to recover money.
Types of Injuries That Happen in Slip and Fall Cases
Sprains, Fractures, Broken Bones
When people slip and fall, their bodies often move in harmful ways because they are abruptly moved in one direction when they intend to go another. This can lead to some injuries, such as sprains and fractures. In serious falls, or when the person is elderly or frail, they can also sustain broken bones.
Spine Damage or Traumatic Brain Injury
Major falls can lead to some serious, life-altering injuries. Some of these injuries include damage to the spine or brain. This can lead to paralysis. People suffering from these injuries may need lifelong care.
Emotional Trauma
Physical injuries are not the only injuries that can result from a bad fall. A nasty fall can make someone worried about falling again. This may prevent them from going out in certain situations. It also may lead to nightmares or anxiety.
What Do Slip and Fall Cases Look Like?
Slip and fall cases are highly fact-intensive. What that means is that the facts surrounding the fall – what led to the fall, where it happened, etc.– influence whether a claim can be brought. Claimants generally must show that certain elements are present to establish a claim. For example, a claimant must demonstrate that there was a duty owed to you to keep you safe and that the duty was breached, that a party was negligent and their negligence has resulted in liability and that harm was suffered for which the party is liable to pay. There may be other factors to consider in each case.
How Long Do Slip and Fall Cases Take to Resolve?
Every slip and fall case is different, depending on the facts and circumstances surrounding it. A resolution can take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years. Things such as the extent of your injuries and how long your personal recovery takes can impact the resolution time.
Will My Case Go to Trial?
It is estimated that fewer than 10% go to trial. This is because the parties often settle before going to court. A settlement means that, instead of going to court, the person who suffers the slip and fall agrees to a certain amount of money.
What Can I Expect to Recover?
Each case is different. Some cases settle in the thousands, while others settle or obtain a verdict in the millions. There is no hard and fast rule. Typically, cases in which the damage is more extensive and severe will result in higher amounts. These would be cases where someone has a permanent disability. In other cases, such as when someone sustains an ankle sprain, the amount will not be nearly as high.
Every slip and fall case is unique. A personal injury attorney can help you prove your injury insurance claim and help fight for the maximum dollar amount.
Speak to an Attorney Today
Contact our office today at 321-415-9012 to speak with one of our attorneys if you would like to discuss the particulars of your situation. We present the material contained on our website and pages, including this Blog, for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute the rendering of legal advice and does not create any attorney-client relationship. If you need legal or other professional advice, you should consult with legal counsel about your particular facts and circumstances. Contact us to see how we may be able to fight for you!