Most people do not think about the conditions of the sidewalks they walk on. They have a reasonable expectation that sidewalks are properly maintained for their safety. That is because property owners and cities are obligated to upkeep walkways to prevent harm. Poorly kept sidewalks can result in serious harm by causing slip and fall accidents.
When you or a loved one are hurt because of a cracked, defective, or broken sidewalk, you may have the legal right to seek compensation. When the streets are busy and full of people, it can be impossible to notice damaged sidewalks. That does not make it your fault when you slip and fall. Our team of legal professionals can review the circumstances of your accident and help you build a strong legal case. Call The Law Office of David E. Gordon as soon as possible after suffering an injury in a sidewalk slip and fall accident in Southaven.
What to Know About Slip and Falls
A slip and fall accident is a type of personal injury case that falls under the category of premises liability. The accidents occur when someone slips, trips, or falls on another person’s property. They are common accidents that have the potential to cause serious harm. When it occurs on a sidewalk, the relationship that you have with the property owner affects whether or not you can hold them responsible. There are three types of visitor categories recognized under state law:
1) Invitees
These are people who have been invited for the benefit of the property owner. An example would be shoppers at a store. Property owners owe them the highest duty of care.
2) Licensees
These are people who have been invited to a property for their own benefit. That includes guests at someone’s home. They are owed a slightly lower degree of care.
3) Trespassers
These are people who are on the premises without permission. Trespassers are owed the lowest duty of care—in that property owners do not owe them a duty of care—but property owners cannot intentionally harm them.
Regardless of the classification, the individual must prove that the property owner was negligent to obtain compensation for their losses. However, proving negligence can be challenging. Further, insurance companies will do everything possible to avoid paying injured people what they deserve. It is important for victims to talk with a qualified personal injury attorney like David to fully understand what their options are when they have suffered injuries after slipping and falling on a sidewalk in Southaven.
Steps to Take After Experiencing A Slip and Fall
Although every case is different, there are specific steps a person can take to protect their rights after being involved in a walkway incident. They include:
- Checking their body for injuries or checking on anyone else who is hurt
- Calling 911 if anyone needs emergency medical care
- Finding the person in charge of the property to report the incident
- Taking photos and videos of where they fell
- Getting the contact information of anyone who witnessed what happened
- Saving all medical bills and other receipts of costs
- Avoiding giving any statements to insurance companies without legal representation
- Talking to an attorney as soon as possible to discuss their legal options
Slip and fall accidents can lead to broken bones, damage to a person’s back, and much more. Sometimes, the injuries can be life-changing. A lawyer with experience handling sidewalk slip and fall accident cases in Southaven can help an injured person demand comprehensive compensation for their injuries.
Call a Southaven Sidewalk Slip and Fall Accident Attorney
Sidewalk slip and fall accidents in Southaven often give rise to legal claims. If you were hurt, contact The Law Office of David E. Gordon to figure out your legal options. We are not afraid to fight for the money that you deserve. We will review your situation and begin building a strong premises liability case for you. To get started with a free consultation, contact us today.
