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Slipped and Fell? Looking at Your Legal Options

HomeBlogPersonal InjurySlipped and Fell? Looking at Your Legal Options

Slipped and Fell? Looking at Your Legal Options

January 21, 2025
By Lafferty Gallagher Scott

Suffering from a slip-and-fall accident while going about your day can be unsettling and overwhelming. You might be dealing with injuries, facing medical bills, and struggling to make sense of what to do next. Amid these challenges, one question often stands out—what are your legal options?  

At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, LLC, we’ve been helping injury victims for over 50 years. In this post, we’ll walk you through the key aspects of slip and fall cases in Ohio so you can make informed decisions about what steps to take.  

Understanding Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents are surprisingly common. According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of non-fatal injuries in the United States. The elderly and children are particularly vulnerable to these types of accidents. Some of the most frequent causes include:

  • Spilled liquids or food  
  • Loose carpets or rugs without non-slip backing  
  • Uneven flooring or pavement cracks  
  • Poorly maintained stairs, decks, or handrails  
  • Insufficient lighting  
  • Icy or slippery sidewalks during winter  

Slips and falls can cause various injuries, from minor to severe. Some common examples include:

  • Broken bones (especially wrists, hips, and ankles)  
  • Sprains and muscle tears  
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or concussions  
  • Spinal cord injuries  
  • Back or neck damage  

Legal Duties of Property Owners

Under Ohio law, property owners have a legal duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions on their premises to protect visitors from harm. This legal principle, known as premises liability, applies to both residential and commercial property owners, as well as property managers. If a property owner or manager doesn’t address or warn about dangerous conditions, such as wet floors, broken stairs, or inadequate lighting, and someone is injured as a result, they may be held legally responsible for the injury.

Looking at Your Legal Options for Compensation

If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, there are several legal avenues to pursue compensation for your damages. These include:

  • Personal injury claim: If the property owner’s negligence resulted in your injuries, you can file a personal injury claim against them. This type of lawsuit seeks compensation for various damages such as hospital bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
  • Workers’ compensation: If you were working when the accident happened, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits to cover your medical expenses and lost wages.
  • Insurance claim: Sometimes, the property owner’s insurance can provide coverage for slip and fall accidents.

It is important to act swiftly if you plan to pursue legal action for a slip and fall accident in Ohio. The state enforces a statute of limitations, which typically requires you to file a claim within two years of the incident happening. Missing this deadline could result in lost compensation.

Building a Successful Case

To succeed in a slip and fall case, you will need to provide evidence that the property owner’s negligence caused your injuries. Some crucial pieces of evidence include:

  • Photos or videos of the conditions that led to your accident  
  • Statements from people who saw your fall or can attest to the unsafe conditions  
  • Medical records documenting your injuries and treatment  
  • Proof of any financial losses resulting from the accident, like medical bills or lost wages

It is essential to gather this evidence as soon as possible after the accident while it is still fresh.

How Can an Attorney Help?

Navigating injury claims can be complicated. Having skilled legal representation ensures you don’t have to face it alone. They can help you with:

  • Case evaluation: An attorney will determine whether you have a strong claim.  
  • Evidence gathering: Lawyers know what evidence is crucial to proving negligence and securing compensation.  
  • Negotiations: They’ll handle discussions with insurance companies to ensure you get a fair settlement.  
  • Court representation: If the case goes to trial, your attorney will present a compelling argument on your behalf.  

Take the First Step Toward Justice

Slips and falls can be difficult both physically and emotionally. However, it is important to remember that you are not alone, and you have options. With Lafferty, Gallagher, & Scott, LLC, you can take control of the situation and focus on your recovery. Contact us today – stay strong and know that there is a path forward to help you rebuild and move on from this challenging time.

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