Winter is quickly approaching and with that comes slippery surfaces that can be covered in snow and/or ice. Although it may look beautiful, trying to walk on those surfaces can be nothing short of treacherous. And while you have control over your driveway and sidewalk, making sure to keep them clear and safe, you depend on others to do the same. Unfortunately, there are always those property owners who don’t address the ice promptly, thereby creating a potential accident waiting to happen.
If you have suffered a slip and fall on someone else’s property, the question is, are they always liable? Let’s take a closer look.
A Slip and Fall Accident Can Be Very Serious
So, what’s the big deal about a slip and fall accident? It can be extremely serious, especially on a hard surface when ice is to blame. A slip and fall can result in such injuries as:
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Sprains
- Head injuries
- Chronic pain
- Spinal cord injuries
And this is just a small look, as injuries can be extensive and take a long time to recover from. You may even need intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation.
It Falls Under the Umbrella of Premise Liability Cases
When you are dealing with a slip and fall claim that happens at someone else’s property, these are called premise liability cases. The property owner can be a homeowner, a business owner, the government or any other party that owns the property. This is the person you will name in your claim.
A Thorough Investigation Must Be Done
Liability isn’t immediately assumed; it needs to be proven. This can be done through a thorough investigation of the accident and the premises. The more information and evidence that can be gathered, the stronger your case becomes.
Evidence to build your case can include:
- Photos of the accident scene
- Surveillance video
- Incident report
- Witness statements
The property owner’s insurance company and lawyer(s) will be working hard to prove you were at fault, and that the property owner holds no liability, therefore you have no substance for a claim.
Think You’ve Got a Potential Case? Contact Us
If you think you have a strong case for proving liability in your slip and fall accident, it’s important you contact us at Custodio & Dubey as soon as possible. This means speaking to us before you speak to the property owner, their lawyer or their insurance company. Each of them will be trying to get the lowest settlement possible and won’t be looking out for your best interests.
At Custodio & Dubey we have plenty of experience with slip and fall accidents, including those that occurred on ice. We know what it takes to prove the property owner was liable and how to ensure you get fair compensation.
You can visit us in person at 445 S Figueroa Street Suite 2520 Los Angeles, CA 90071.
You can also call now for a free consultation on (888) 200-9431.
