SLIP & FALL LAWYER
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA
With our experienced slip and fall lawyers in Sacramento, CA, you'll never pay for our services unless we win your case. Tripping hazards, spills, and wet surfaces all put people at risk of a fall that can result in significant damage. If you or a loved one was harmed in a slip or fall on someone else's property, our skilled lawyers are here to assist with a personal injury or wrongful death claim.
SACRAMENTO SLIP AND FALL LAWYERS REPRESENTING INJURED PEOPLE
Property owners, managers, and businesses have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a safe condition and free of hazards. If someone slips and falls on their property as a result of their inattention, they may be held legally liable if the property is not maintained properly or if there are risks present.
If you or a loved one has been hurt as the result of a trip and fall or slip and fall accident on someone else’s premises, you should contact a lawyer right away. We can meet with you during a free case consultation to see if you have a viable premises liability claim at Gingery Hammer & Associates LLP. You are represented by us on a contingency basis, which means we receive no payment unless we are able to recover compensation for you.
COMMON SLIP & FALL INJURIES
- Back Injury
- Brain Damage
- Bruises
- Broken Bones
- Concussions
- Fractures
- Head Trauma
- Lacerations
- Neck Injury
- Nerve Damage
- Paralysis
- Spinal Cord Damage
- Sprains
CONTACT GINGERY HAMMER & ASSOCIATES FOR SACRAMENTO SLIP & FALL LAWYERS!
Monetary compensation may be paid for injuries caused by a slip and fall accident. Medical expenses, missed income, mental trauma, the loss of a loved one, pain and suffering are just a few examples of financial compensation available. Contact our team today! We’re based in Sacramento, California at Gingery Hammer & Associates LLP.
How a Sacramento Slip and Fall Lawyer Can Help You Win Your Case
Slip and fall accidents are a common thing in the United States, and California is no exception. As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 504 fatal work injuries in California in 2022 alone, an increase from the previous year. This figure represents a tragic loss of life and highlights the importance of workplace safety and the need for effective legal representation when slip and fall accidents occur.
Slip and fall accidents in Sacramento can happen anywhere, from the workplace to public spaces like grocery stores, restaurants, and sidewalks. When these incidents occur due to the property owner or manager’s negligence, you are entitled to compensation for your treatment expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. This is where a Sacramento slip and fall lawyer can provide invaluable assistance. An experienced lawyer in Sacramento can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Incidents
Slip and fall accidents can happen for various reasons, many of which involve hazardous conditions on someone else’s property.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Wet or oily floors: Spills, leaks, or recently mopped surfaces can create slippery conditions that lead to falls. Property owners must address these hazards promptly and warn visitors of the danger.
- Spilled food or drinks: In restaurants, grocery stores, and other establishments, spilled food or beverages can create slippery surfaces that pose a risk to customers. Staff should clean up spills quickly and place warning signs as needed.
- Loose carpeting or floor mats: When carpets, rugs, or mats are not properly secured, they can bunch up or shift, causing people to trip and fall. Property owners must ensure that all floor coverings are safely installed and maintained.
- Uneven flooring surfaces: Poorly maintained or constructed floors with cracks, holes, or unexpected changes in elevation can cause trips and falls. Property owners are responsible for repairing or clearly marking these hazards.
- Holes in the ground: Potholes, uncovered utility access points, and other openings in sidewalks, parking lots, or landscaped areas can lead to serious falls. Property owners must fill or cover these holes and provide warnings if repairs cannot be made immediately.
- Lack of handrails on stairways: Stairways without proper handrails or damaged ones can make it difficult for people to maintain their balance, increasing the risk of falls. Building codes typically require handrails on stairs for safety.
- Snow or ice: In colder climates, accumulated snow or ice on walkways, stairs, and parking lots can create treacherous conditions. Property owners are generally responsible for removing these hazards within a reasonable time frame.
Slip & Fall Injuries and Common Causes
Slip and fall accidents can result in many injuries, from minor bruises to life-altering conditions. Some of the most common slip and fall injuries include:
- Back Injury: Falls can cause damage to the muscles, ligaments, and vertebrae in the back, leading to chronic pain, limited mobility, and even paralysis in severe cases.
- Brain Damage: Hitting your head during a fall can result in concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries that may cause cognitive impairments, memory loss, and personality changes.
- Bruises: While often considered minor, deep muscle bruises can be painful and limit your ability to perform daily activities.
- Broken Bones: Fractures of the wrists, ankles, hips, and other bones are common in slip and fall accidents, especially among older adults. These injuries can require surgery, lengthy rehabilitation, and lead to long-term mobility issues.
- Head Trauma: In addition to brain damage, falls can cause lacerations, contusions, and other head injuries that may require stitches or more extensive medical treatment.
- Neck Injury: Whiplash and other neck injuries can result from the sudden jerking motion often experienced during a fall, causing ongoing pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
- Nerve Damage: Falls can cause damage to the peripheral nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, weakness, and chronic pain in the affected areas.
- Paralysis: In the most severe cases, slip and fall accidents can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in partial or total paralysis below the site of the injury.
- Sprains: Stretching or tearing of ligaments in the ankles, knees, wrists, and other joints can happen during a fall, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected limb.
How a Sacramento Slip and Fall Lawyer Can Help
When you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, a Sacramento slip and fall lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the legal process and securing the compensation you deserve. Here are some of the ways an lawyer can help:
Investigating the accident scene
Your lawyer will thoroughly investigate the site of your accident, documenting the hazardous conditions that led to your fall and gathering crucial evidence to support your claim.
Gathering evidence and witness statements
In addition to physical evidence, your lawyer will collect witness statements, surveillance footage, and other documentation to help establish the property owner’s negligence.
Determining liability
Slip and fall cases can be complex, often involving multiple parties who may share responsibility for your injuries. Your lawyer will identify all liable parties and work to hold them accountable.
Negotiating with insurance companies
Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Your lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance companies and negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.
Representing you in court, if necessary
If a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, your Sacramento slip and fall lawyer will be prepared to take your case to trial and fight for your rights in court.
Proving Negligence
To win your slip and fall case, your lawyer must demonstrate that the property owner or manager was negligent in maintaining a safe environment. This involves establishing the following elements:
Duty of care
The property owner owed you a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe and free of hazards.
Breach of duty
The property owner breached this duty by failing to address, repair, or warn of the dangerous condition that caused your accident.
Causation
The breach of duty directly led to your slip and fall accident and the resulting injuries.
Damages
You suffered actual damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other losses as a result of the accident.
Your Sacramento slip and fall lawyer will gather evidence and build a strong case to prove each of these elements and demonstrate the property owner’s negligence.
Maximizing Your Compensation
To ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve, your lawyer will work to identify and calculate all of your damages, including:
Economic damages
Economic damages are the quantifiable financial losses you’ve incurred due to the accident, such as medical bills, lost income, and future medical expenses or lost earning capacity.
Non-economic damages
Non-economic damages are more subjective and include things like pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other intangible losses.
Your lawyer will use their experience and knowledge to assess the full value of your claim and negotiate with the insurance companies to secure a fair settlement. If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to argue your case in court and fight for the maximum compensation possible.
By working with a skilled Sacramento slip and fall lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer handles the legal aspects of your case and works to protect your rights and interests.
Why Choose a Sacramento Slip and Fall Lawyer
When choosing a slip and fall lawyer in Sacramento, it’s imperative to select a lawyer with the knowledge, experience, and dedication necessary to effectively handle your case.
Here are some reasons why working with a local Sacramento slip and fall lawyer can benefit you:
- Local knowledge and experience: Sacramento slip and fall lawyers are familiar with the local court system, judges, and opposing lawyers, which can provide a significant advantage when navigating your case.
- Understanding of California premises liability laws: California has specific laws and regulations governing slip and fall accidents. A Sacramento premises liability lawyer will have a deep understanding of these laws and how they apply to your case.
- Dedicated to protecting your rights and interests: A skilled Sacramento slip and fall lawyer will be committed to fighting for your rights, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve, and holding negligent property owners accountable for their actions.
Get Your Free Case Evaluation Now
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident in Sacramento, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact the experienced slip and fall lawyers at Gingery Hammer & Associates LLP today for a free consultation. Our team has a proven track record of success in handling slip and fall cases and is committed to fighting for the rights of injured individuals.
Let us put our knowledge, skills, and resources to work for you and help you secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a slip and fall accident?
A slip and fall accident occurs when someone slips, trips, or falls on another person's property due to a dangerous or hazardous condition, such as a wet floor, uneven pavement, or poor lighting. If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident in Sacramento, it's essential to consult with a Sacramento slip and fall lawyer who can help you understand your legal rights and options.
What should I do if I've been injured in a slip and fall accident in Sacramento?
If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident in Sacramento, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention for your injuries. Next, report the accident to the property owner or manager and collect evidence, such as photos of the scene and witness contact information. Contact a slip and fall attorney in Sacramento to discuss your case and potential legal options.
What types of injuries can result from a slip and fall accident?
Slip and fall accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises and cuts to more severe injuries like broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord damage, and even paralysis. If you've suffered any type of injury in a slip and fall accident, it's crucial to consult with a Sacramento slip and fall lawyer to protect your rights and seek fair compensation.
Who is liable for a slip and fall accident in Sacramento?
In most cases, the property owner or manager may be held liable for a slip and fall accident if they knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to take reasonable steps to address it. A skilled slip and fall lawyer in Sacramento can help you determine who is liable for your accident and hold them accountable for your injuries.
How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in Sacramento?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a slip and fall claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, there are some exceptions, so it's essential to consult with a Sacramento slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate time frame.
What compensation can I recover in a slip and fall case?
If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. A knowledgeable slip and fall attorney in Sacramento can help you understand the full value of your claim and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
How much does it cost to hire a Sacramento slip and fall lawyer?
Most Sacramento slip and fall lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don't pay any upfront costs, and the attorney only collects a fee if they win your case. This arrangement allows injured individuals to access quality legal representation without worrying about out-of-pocket expenses.
What if the property owner claims I was partially at fault for the accident?
Even if you were partially at fault for the slip and fall accident, you might still be entitled to compensation under California's comparative negligence laws. A skilled slip and fall attorney in Sacramento can help you navigate this complex issue and protect your rights.
How long does a slip and fall case typically take to resolve?
The timeline for resolving a slip and fall case can vary depending on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the complexity of the case, and the willingness of the property owner or their insurance company to settle. A Sacramento slip and fall lawyer can provide you with a more accurate estimate based on the specifics of your case.
What should I look for when hiring a Sacramento slip and fall lawyer?
When choosing a slip and fall lawyer in Sacramento, look for someone with experience handling similar cases, a track record of success, and a commitment to client service. You should also feel comfortable communicating with your attorney and trust that they have your best interests in mind.
How can a Sacramento slip and fall attorney help me with my case?
A Sacramento slip and fall attorney can help you in many ways, including investigating your accident, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if necessary. They can also help you understand your legal rights, assess the value of your claim, and guide you through the complex legal process.
What evidence do I need to support my slip and fall claim?
To support your slip and fall claim, it's imperative to gather evidence such as photos of the accident scene, witness statements, medical records, and documentation of your expenses and losses. A slip and fall attorney in Sacramento can help you identify and collect the necessary evidence to build a strong case.
Can I still pursue a claim if I didn't seek medical attention immediately after the accident?
While it's always best to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a slip and fall accident, you may still be able to pursue a claim even if you delay treatment. However, it's imperative to consult with a Sacramento slip and fall lawyer to discuss your specific situation and potential legal options.
What if the property owner denies liability for the accident?
If the property owner denies liability for your slip and fall accident, it's essential to have a skilled slip and fall lawyer in Sacramento on your side. They can help you build a strong case, negotiate with the property owner or their insurance company, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Can I file a claim if I slipped and fell at work?
If you slipped and fell at work, you might be entitled to workers' compensation benefits. However, in some cases, you may also have a separate premises liability claim against a third party. A Sacramento slip and fall attorney can help you understand your legal options and pursue the appropriate claims.
What if I can't afford to pay for medical treatment after a slip and fall accident?
If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident and can't afford medical treatment, a Sacramento slip and fall attorney may be able to help you find medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis. This means that the medical provider agrees to wait for payment until your case is resolved.
Can I handle a slip and fall claim on my own, or do I need a lawyer?
While it's possible to handle a slip and fall claim on your own, it's generally in your best interest to work with an experienced slip and fall lawyer in Sacramento. They can help you navigate the complex legal process, protect your rights, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
How do I know if I have a valid slip and fall claim?
To have a valid slip and fall claim, you generally must be able to prove that the property owner or manager knew or should have known about the dangerous condition that caused your accident and failed to take reasonable steps to address it. A Sacramento slip and fall attorney can help you assess the validity of your claim and advise you on the best course of action.
What if the property owner offers me a settlement?
If the property owner or their insurance company offers you a settlement after a slip and fall accident, it's essential to consult with a slip and fall lawyer in Sacramento before accepting. They can help you evaluate the fairness of the offer and negotiate for a higher settlement if necessary.
How do I choose the right Sacramento slip and fall lawyer for my case?
When choosing a slip and fall lawyer, look for someone with experience handling similar cases, a track record of success, and a commitment to client service. Schedule consultations with several attorneys to find the one who is the best fit for you and your case. Having a skilled and experienced Sacramento personal injury attorney on your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your slip and fall claim.
COMMON CAUSES OF SLIP & FALL INJURIES IN SACRAMENTO
The following are some potential hazards that might damage someone, many of which include the possibility of tripping, slipping, or falling:
Gingery Hammer & Associates LLP assists slip and fall accident victims in Sacramento, California with legal counsel, advice, resources, and representation.