Steps to Take Immediately After a Premises Liability Accident

by: Krishan Zaveri | June 22, 2024 | Premises Liability
Steps to take immediately after a premises liability accident

When you experience an accident on someone else's property, knowing the right steps can change the result of your premises liability claim. These incidents can occur anywhere, from shopping malls to private homes, and the consequences can be severe.

The steps you take immediately after the incident are critical to safeguarding your rights and allowing you to pursue compensation for your injuries. Act quickly and thoughtfully to seek legal guidance from a personal injury attorney to safeguard your health and legal interests.

You must contact a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who can fight for your legal rights. At The Zaveri Law Firm, it would be our honor to help you. Learn more below, and then contact us to schedule a free case evaluation.

What is a Premises Liability Accident?

A premises liability accident occurs when someone is injured on another person's property due to unsafe conditions or negligence by the property owner. This includes a range of incidents, from slips and falls to injuries sustained from falling objects.

Such claims revolve around the property owner's inability to create a safe environment for visitors. Premises liability is part of personal injury law that makes property owners liable for incidents and injuries on their property.

These incidents can occur in various areas, such as retail stores, public spaces, or private residences. The law forces property owners to maintain their premises appropriately.

If they do not do so, and someone suffers an injury because of their negligence, the injured party may have the right to file a personal injury claim.

What Injuries Do People Suffer in Premises Liability Accidents?

  • Broken bones. Victims of premises liability incidents often sustain broken bones, especially from slip and fall incidents. These catastrophic injuries can be painful and require long recovery times.
  • Head injuries. Falls or falling objects can cause head injuries, ranging from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries.
  • Spinal cord injuries. Slippery floors or uneven surfaces can lead to falls that cause spinal cord injuries, potentially resulting in paralysis or other long-term disabilities.
  • Cuts and abrasions. Sharp objects or broken structures can cause serious cuts and abrasions in premises liability accidents.
  • Burns. Accidents involving exposed wiring or hot surfaces can result in burns, which might be severe depending on the accident's nature.
  • Electrical shocks. Faulty electrical installations or exposed wires can lead to electrical shocks, which can sometimes be fatal.
  • Sprains and strains. These are common injuries in premises liability cases, often resulting from slips, trips, or falls on improperly maintained surfaces.

Common Types of Premises Liability Cases

  • Slip and fall accidents. These are some of the most frequent premises liability cases. They occur when a person slips, trips, or falls because of a dangerous condition on the property. Slip and fall cases often result from wet floors, icy walkways, or uneven flooring.
  • Negligent security. Property owners must provide adequate security. The property owner can be held liable if someone is injured because of inadequate security, such as bad lighting or poor security.
  • Swimming pool accidents. Pools must be securely fenced and have proper safety equipment. If a pool area is not safely maintained and an incident occurs, the property owner can be sued for negligence.
  • Elevator and escalator accidents. Property owners are responsible for regularly maintaining and safely operating elevators and escalators. Injuries resulting from malfunctions or improper maintenance can lead to premises liability claims.
  • Toxic exposure. Suppose a person is exposed to dangerous chemicals or materials while on someone else's property and suffers injuries. In that case, the property owner might be liable for failing to manage or disclose the presence of hazardous substances.

Ensuring Safety and Seeking Medical Attention

Ensuring safety and seeking medical attention

If you are involved in a premises liability incident, your priority should be medical care. Seek medical attention even if your injuries seem minor, as some symptoms of serious injuries can take time to appear.

This step is important for your health and for documenting your injuries, which can be critical when filing evidence supporting a premises liability claim. Medical records are key evidence in personal injury cases.

Reporting the Accident

Reporting the incident to the property owner or manager is vital. This report should include details of the accident and any conditions that contributed to it.

Making a report creates an official record of the incident, which is important for future legal actions. It also alerts the property owner to the dangerous issue, potentially preventing further accidents.

Calling a Baltimore Premises Liability Lawyer

Contact a liability lawyer after taking care of your safety and reporting the incident. A skilled lawyer can help you through the process of submitting a claim and negotiating maximum compensation with insurance companies. They protect your rights and fight for compensation for your injuries and other losses.

Gathering Evidence

Gathering evidence

Collecting evidence is necessary after a premises liability accident. Take pictures of the accident scene and your injuries, gather witnesses' names and contact information, and keep a record of everything related to the accident.

Having pictures of the accident scene will support your claim and provide your lawyer with the information needed to build a strong case to seek compensation on your behalf.

Keeping Records

Keep detailed records of all medical care, expenses related to your injuries, and any missed work or other losses. These records are essential for proving the financial impact of the accident.

Accurate and comprehensive documentation can substantially further legal action and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome in your premises liability claim.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

  • Ignoring medical advice. Always follow the medical advice given by your doctors. Ignoring this can hurt both your health and your claim.
  • Speaking to the insurance company without legal representation. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to settle for less than you deserve. Always consult with your lawyer before speaking to them.
  • Posting on social media. Do not post about your incident or injuries on social media. Insurers often use these posts against you.
  • Failing to act quickly. There are time limits for submitting personal injury claims. Acting quickly ensures that you do not miss these deadlines.
  • Accepting early settlement offers. It's common for insurance companies to offer quick settlements that are far less than what you might be entitled to. Consult with your lawyer to ensure any offer is fair.

Why You Need a Premises Liability Lawyer

Why you need a premises liability lawyer

Going through a premises liability case can be complex and challenging. A premises liability lawyer has the training and experience to handle the legal complexities of such cases.

They can negotiate with property owners and insurance providers, ensuring you receive adequate compensation for your injuries and losses. With legal guidance from a lawyer, you may fully understand your rights and the full value of your claim.

Having an expert is vital for addressing all aspects of your case, from collecting evidence to negotiating settlements. A lawyer will fight for your best interests during the entire process, helping to relieve the stress and burden of legal proceedings. They ensure your case is handled effectively, allowing you to focus on recovery.

How The Zaveri Law Firm Can Help

The Zaveri Law Firm specializes in premises liability cases and has a long track record of helping clients receive the compensation they deserve.

Our experienced team understands the intricacies of liability laws and how they apply to the parties involved various situations. We are dedicated to offering personalized and skilled legal representation for each client.

We handle all aspects of your case, from the first consultation to the settlement negotiations to the final settlement or trial. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover damages for you. This approach lets you seek justice without stressing about upfront legal fees.

Call Our Baltimore Premises Liability Attorney for a Free Case Consultation

Call our Baltimore premises liability attorney for a free case consultation

If you have been injured in a premises liability accident, The Zaveri Law Firm is here to help you. Our personal injury attorney has experience with premises liability law. We can help you pursue compensation for medical bills and lost income following a slip-and-fall accident.

Seek medical attention immediately after a slip-and-fall incident occurs. Then, contact us to schedule a free consultation to discuss your personal injury lawsuit.

It's not just a case,
it's your life.

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