When a slip-and-fall occurs at a store they may be liable for your injury.
Pennsylvania Slip-and-Fall Law
Pennsylvania law states that property owners are responsible for making sure their properties are safe and free of dangers that could cause a slip-and-fall. They must make sure that their floors, sidewalks, and windows all meet safety requirements and are free of debris or other potential dangers. The property owners are also responsible for the clearing of snow and ice outside their property.
Causes of Slip-and-Falls In Stores:
- Wet floors
- Spilled foods or liquids
- Broken or hanging items
- Items not properly stored
- Ice or snow on outside property
- Uneven or damaged floors
One example of this can be seen in a recent Philadelphia slip and fall case that was settled in which the victim received significant compensation. The plaintiff was injured when she slipped in a supermarket on a broken bottle of hot sauce that was left on the ground. The insurance company claimed the supermarket was not liable for the fall, but because she chose to hire a lawyer, her attorney was able to obtain a surveillance video from the store, which revealed that an employee walked past the spill without cleaning it up. This undoubtedly proved that the store was responsible as it knowingly left the spilled sauce on the floor and failed to clean it up. Their inaction to keep its property safe was negligent.
Slip-and-fall cases can be very complex. The burden of proof can be one of the most difficult aspects of a slip-and-fall case. In a claim you must prove that the danger was there, that the property owner knew or should have reasonably known that the hazard was present, and that your injury was the direct result of the particular risk. You will need an experienced, aggressive attorney to help you through all the red tape.
What To Do If You’ve Been In a Slip-and-Fall
- Report the incident with the store manager.
- If you’re not too injured to do so, get the names, contact numbers, and statements from any witnesses. This can prove to be invaluable evidence if you decide to file a claim.
- Again, if your injuries are not too severe, take photos of the scene. Document the accident location and events that lead to the injury.
- Seek medical attention. Be sure to go to the hospital or see a doctor as soon as possible. They will document all of your injuries. Continue to see a doctor if you experience pain. Sometimes after an accident, like a slip-and-fall, injuries may not present immediately and it can sometimes take a month or more for symptoms to show up. Not treating can make these injuries worse or even permanent.
- Keep a journal of your injuries and pain. You may not decide to file a claim immediately, but documenting any pain or injuries could be extremely helpful to your case should you decide to file one.
Lawyers That Care
We know the difficulties that come with a slip-and-fall injury. On top of the physical damage you may experience loss of wages from being out of work and emotional stress that can be debilitating to your life. At Console & Hollawell we have over 17 years defending the rights of slip-and-fall victims, and we know how to navigate the road blocks that insurance companies put up to try to lessen your claim.
Our Pennsylvania slip-and-fall attorneys are ready and able to help you recover the damages you deserve. Call us today to schedule your FREE, confidential consultation at 866-778-5500. If you think someone else is responsible for your slip-and-fall do not delay; focus on getting better and we will handle the rest.
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