Slip and Fall lawyer West Bend, WI

Slip and Fall lawyer West Bend, WI

Slip and fall accident injuries can range from a minor bump or bruise all the way to severe injuries that can leave a victim permanently disabled. Some of the more serious injuries that a fall accident victim can suffer include brain or head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and fractured bones. A slip and fall accident can also leave a victim with chronic pain, impacting their quality of life. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, a slip and fall lawyer in West Bend, WI can help get you the financial compensation that Wisconsin law says you may be entitled to.

What Is the Duty of Care for Property Owners

Under Wisconsin law, every property owner is required to keep their property reasonably safe and hazard-free. This is referred to as duty of care. The law is in place to protect anyone who has a legal right to be on the property, such as visitors, tenants, clients, customers, and delivery people. It usually does not apply to anyone who is injured while on the property illegally or trespassing, however, there are sometimes exceptions to that law, such as when the victim is a child.

Although it would be physically impossible to prevent every single potential injury that can occur on their property, an owner is required to take the necessary and appropriate steps to reduce the risks of someone sustaining an injury. This is especially true when it comes to “environmental hazards.” Some examples of the most common environmental hazards that a West Bend, WI slip and fall lawyer sees in the cases he or she handles include the following:

• Broken stairs
• Carpeting that is torn or frayed
• Clutter or debris blocking aisles, walkways, or sidewalks
• Concrete that is broken or cracked
• Electrical cords that are loose or poorly located
• Floor tiles that are loose or broken
• Floors that are slippery due to cleaners, wax, soap, or dust
• Floors that are wet due to spilled liquids, leaks, or condensation
• Icy steps, walkways, parking lots, or sidewalks
• Inadequate lighting
• Loose or missing handrails
• Loose rugs
• Pavement that is uneven
• Poorly placed furniture
• Potholes

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

At Hickey & Turim S.C., we understand that slip and fall accidents can occur unexpectedly and often result in serious injuries. These accidents are common and can happen in various environments, from workplaces to public spaces. Understanding the common causes of slip and fall accidents can help in identifying potential hazards and preventing such incidents. Here are some frequent causes:

Wet or Uneven Surfaces

One of the most prevalent causes of slip and fall accidents is wet or uneven surfaces. This includes:

• Spills not promptly cleaned up
• Recently mopped or waxed floors
• Loose rugs or mats
• Uneven floorboards or pavement
• Potholes in parking lots

Weather Conditions

Weather conditions, particularly in Wisconsin, can lead to hazardous walking surfaces. Rain, snow, and ice can create slick conditions on sidewalks, parking lots, and building entrances, making it easy for someone to lose their footing.

Poor Lighting

Inadequate lighting can prevent people from seeing hazards such as steps, ramps, or obstacles in their path. Ensuring that all areas, especially staircases and corridors, are well-lit can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Obstructions and Clutter

Items left in walkways can cause individuals to trip and fall. This includes:

• Cables and wires
• Boxes and storage items
• Debris and trash
• Tools and equipment in work areas

Footwear

Improper footwear can contribute to slip and fall incidents. Shoes with slippery soles or high heels can be particularly problematic on certain surfaces.

Looking Into Legal Assistance?

At Hickey & Turim S.C., we are committed to helping victims of slip and fall accidents in West Bend, WI. Our experienced team of slip and fall lawyers understands the complexities involved in these cases and is dedicated to securing the compensation our clients deserve. Here’s how we can assist you:

• Thorough Investigation: We conduct comprehensive investigations to identify the cause of the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
• Expert Legal Advice: Our team provides expert legal guidance, helping you understand your rights and the legal options available to you.
• Aggressive Representation: We aggressively represent your interests, negotiating with insurance companies and opposing parties to ensure fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
• Personalized Service: We offer personalized attention to each case, ensuring that our clients receive the care and support they need throughout the legal process.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident, do not hesitate to contact Hickey & Turim S.C. Our dedicated team is here to help you navigate the legal system and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Call us today for a consultation.

At Hickey & Turim S.C., we recognize that slip and fall accidents can lead to significant injuries and disruptions in your life. To seek compensation for your injuries, it’s essential to prove that negligence played a role in your accident. Understanding the elements of negligence in a slip and fall case can be crucial for building a strong claim.

Key Elements of Negligence

To establish negligence in a slip and fall accident, we need to demonstrate the following elements:

1. Duty of Care: The property owner or occupier had a legal obligation to ensure the safety of their premises. This duty includes maintaining the property and addressing any hazards that could potentially harm visitors.
2. Breach of Duty: We must show that the property owner or occupier failed to uphold their duty of care. This breach could involve not fixing a known hazard, neglecting regular maintenance, or failing to provide adequate warnings about potential dangers.
3. Causation: It must be proven that the breach of duty directly caused your slip and fall accident. This means demonstrating that your injuries were a direct result of the property owner’s negligence and not due to other factors.
4. Damages: Finally, we need to provide evidence that you suffered actual damages as a result of the accident. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.

Gathering Evidence

Proving negligence requires a thorough collection of evidence. At Hickey & Turim S.C., we take the following steps to build a compelling case:

• Photographs and Videos: We gather visual evidence of the accident scene, highlighting the hazardous condition that caused your fall. This may include photos of wet floors, poor lighting, or obstructions.
• Witness Statements: We obtain statements from individuals who witnessed the accident or can attest to the hazardous condition. Witnesses can provide crucial testimony supporting your claim.
• Maintenance Records: We review maintenance logs and repair records to determine if the property owner was aware of the hazard and took appropriate action.
• Medical Records: We collect your medical records to document the extent of your injuries and the treatment you received. These records help establish the link between the accident and your injuries.
• Expert Testimony: When necessary, we work with experts who can provide professional opinions on the hazardous condition and its role in causing your accident.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to Hickey & Turim S.C. Our dedicated team is here to help you prove negligence and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today for a consultation.

Slip and Fall FAQs

What should I do immediately after a slip and fall accident?

After a slip and fall accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor. Document the accident scene by taking photographs and noting any hazardous conditions that caused your fall. Collect contact information from any witnesses and report the incident to the property owner or manager. These steps can help preserve vital evidence for your potential legal claim.

How do I know if I have a valid slip and fall claim?

To determine if you have a valid slip and fall claim, it’s essential to prove that the property owner was negligent. This means showing that they failed to maintain safe conditions or warn of potential hazards. Consulting with an experienced slip and fall attorney can help you evaluate the specifics of your case, gather necessary evidence, and understand your legal options.

Can I still file a slip and fall claim if the accident happened on private property?

Yes, you can file a slip and fall claim if the accident occurred on private property. Property owners have a duty to ensure their premises are safe for visitors. If they fail to address hazards or provide adequate warnings, they can be held liable for any resulting injuries. It’s important to document the conditions and seek legal advice to pursue a claim.

What types of compensation can I receive from a slip and fall lawsuit?

In a slip and fall lawsuit, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and rehabilitation costs. The specific compensation will depend on the extent of your injuries and the impact on your life. An experienced attorney can help you identify and pursue the full range of damages you deserve.

How long do I have to file a slip and fall lawsuit in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, the statute of limitations for filing a slip and fall lawsuit is generally three years from the date of the accident. It’s important to act promptly, as gathering evidence and building a strong case takes time. Consulting with a slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible can help ensure that you meet all legal deadlines and maximize your chances of a successful claim.

Slip and Fall Accident Claims

If a victim is injured in a slip and fall accident, they may suffer injuries that are serious enough to required medical attention. They may also need to take time off from work while they recover from their injuries. If the slip and fall was a result of property owner negligence, then that owner is liable for the victim’s financial losses, as well as financial compensation for pain and suffering, emotional anguish, scarring, and permanent disability.

If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, call Hickey & Turim, S.C. to schedule a free consultation with a West Bend, WI slip and fall lawyer and find out what legal options you may have.