Portland Slip And Fall Accident Lawyer
The owners of premises have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of visitors and employees. That means that surfaces must be well-lit, dry, and clear of obstructions. However, many premises owners and custodians fail in this legal obligation.
If you’ve been involved in a slip and fall accident, you are entitled to compensation for your personal injuries. Contact the Pro Accident Lawyers for a free consultation.
What Is a Slip and Fall Accident?
Slips and falls, or slips, trips, and falls, are specific types of premises liability accidents. These types of fall accidents are so common that the terms “slip and fall” and “premises liability” are used interchangeably. As the name implies, a slip-and-fall accident is when the injured victim falls due to slipping or tripping on a surface.
Where Slip and Fall Accidents Are Most Likely to Occur
The types of locations where these accidents occur are nearly limitless. Here are a few common examples of the types of premises and circumstances where slip and fall accidents are frequent.
- A grocery store aisle where a slippery substance has spilled from a container
- A stairwell that has no slip-proof material applied to the steps
- The entrance of an office building on a rainy or snowy day
- A restaurant where the carpeting sticks up in certain places
- A bathroom floor that has recently been mopped
- A poorly-lit parking lot with a pothole
These are just examples of the types of hazards that can lead to an injury claim. If you’ve fallen due to substandard floor or ground conditions, contact the attorneys at Pro Accident Lawyers today.
Common Injuries in Slip and Fall Accidents
Among the most common types of injuries in this category of accidents are:
- Broken bones — particularly in the hips, coccyx, elbows, and wrists
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Deep bruising
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal damage
- Neck Damage
According to the National Safety Council, fall injuries are the third most common cause of preventable injuries after poisoning and car accidents. If you’ve been in a fall accident, seek medical attention immediately.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident
The following tips can help you prevent further injury and help you with your attempt to seek compensation for your claim.
- Call 911 – You’ll want to get first responders to come to your location. The dispatcher will require the location as well as the internal location of the property, a description of your injuries, etc.
- Report the Accident to Premises Manager – They will need to start an incident report for the insurance company. Ask them to preserve any video data that covers the accident scene.
- Talk to Witnesses – If anyone saw when you slipped and fell, ask for their contact information for your attorneys.
- Document the Scene with Photographs – The property manager will begin cleaning up the accident scene as soon as they’re able to in order to prevent additional accidents. Take pictures of the scene if you’re able to. Back the images up at your earliest opportunity.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if the EMTs don’t think you need to go to the hospital, you should see your doctor at your earliest convenience.
- Contact an Attorney – Before you consider accepting a settlement, reach out to the Accident Pro Lawyers for a free, no-obligation case consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions in a Slip and Fall Accident
These are commonly asked premise liability questions. For specific answers to your questions, call our law firm today.
What is the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in Oregon?
Two years from the date of the accident. In wrongful death cases, it’s three years from the date of the last accident.
Where are slip and fall accidents most likely to occur?
While these accidents can occur nearly anywhere, they are common in retail stores, office buildings, hotels, restaurants, and other places where the volume of traffic sometimes allows hazards to go unnoticed.
What is the highest settlement for a slip and fall?
Oregon currently has no caps for compensatory damages. However, while there is no cap for punitive damages, 70% of the proceeds of punitive damages are awarded to the state.
Can I claim for falling in the street?
Yes, but the success of your case would depend on the specific circumstances of the case. For instance, if the streetlight was out or there was a pothole, you have a better chance of receiving compensation.
Why Choose Us
With a proven track record of success and years of experience, our attorneys represent accident clients on a contingency basis. That means you never have to pay out of pocket, and all legal consultations are free.