Sugar Land Slip & Fall Attorney
While there are many mishaps that can lead to accidental injuries in Texas, you might be surprised to learn that the number one reason people seek medical care is slip and falls. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that almost 8.6 million individuals are treated in hospital emergency departments for unintentional falls, putting them at the top of the list in 8 of 10 age groups. It is certainly true that many injuries occur in the home, but many victims suffer slip and fall injuries because of misconduct by others.
As such, it is encouraging to know that Texas law protects your rights after a slip and fall accident. You may be able to recover monetary damages for your medical costs, pain and suffering, and other losses. The West Law Office will aggressively fight for your rights, so please contact us to set up a free appointment with a Sugar Land slip & fall attorney. A summary of the relevant laws and notable limitations on your claim may also be helpful.
Overview of Texas Slip and Fall Laws
Though they are familiarly known as slip and fall accidents, these incidents are covered under state premises liability laws. To obtain compensation for your losses, you must prove that the accident occurred because of the property owner’s negligence in keeping the space safe. To better understand the underlying concepts, some examples of negligence may be useful. Slip and falls are often caused by:
- Failure to wipe up spills, grease, or slick surfaces;
- Neglect in maintaining staircases, balconies, handrails, and banisters;
- Not inspecting the property to detect problems;
- Failing to make repairs to dangerous conditions; and,
- Not posting signage for hazards or areas that are off-limits due to construction or renovation.
Legal Limitations That May Affect Your Rights
You may be eligible for both economic and noneconomic damages after being hurt in a slip and fall on property, but it is important to keep in mind three key concepts that may impose restrictions. At The West Law Office, our Sugar Land slip and fall lawyers can explain:
- Texas has a statute of limitations that sets a deadline by which you must file a lawsuit in court for a premises liability case. You have two years from the date of the accident to initiate litigation or you are forever barred from obtaining damages.
- If you were trespassing, you may be prohibited from recovering compensation – regardless of the property owner’s negligence.
- Your monetary damages may be reduced under state law on comparative negligence if you were careless in causing the slip and fall. The reduction will be a percentage of fault assigned to your actions.
Speak to a Sugar Land Slip and Fall Attorney About Your Options
If you were hurt because of a property owner’s failure to ensure a safe premises, please contact The West Law Office to speak to one of our experienced slip and fall lawyers. Injured victims in Fort Bend County and throughout Southeast Texas can call 281-347-3247 to schedule a free consultation today.