Slip and fall accidents can have serious consequences, regardless of where they occur. In 2021, more than 6.9 million people were treated in emergency rooms in the U.S. for fall-related injuries. Tragically, nearly 45,000 individuals were involved in fatal slips and falls that year according to the National Safety Council. Many of these incidents are often avoidable and stem from pure negligence.
If you’ve been injured on another’s property, know that you are not alone. An experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case and guide you on your options. Choosing the right slip and fall lawyer in Los Angeles is a crucial decision that can impact the outcome of your case, so it’s worth taking the time to do a little background research to ensure you pick the right one.
An Overview of Slip and Fall Accidents in Los Angeles
Slip and fall accidents are unpredictable events that can occur in various settings, ranging from grocery stores and hotels to restaurants, bars, and office buildings. Depending on the circumstances, if you happen to slip and fall on someone else’s property, the property owner or manager may be held liable for your injuries.
In general, property owners and renters/residents have a legal responsibility to keep their facilities safe for other people. This is known as a duty of care. This duty is typically extended to those who are on the property legally, including customers of a business or individuals who have been formally invited as social guests.
The most common causes of slip and fall accidents are due to:
- Wet or slippery walking surfaces
- Broken/Damaged handrails
- Uneven floors or sidewalks
- Poor and inadequate lighting
- Obstacles/Tripping hazards in walkways (debris electrical wires, cords, etc.)
These types of accidents are almost always preventable and are typically caused by the negligent, careless actions of another. Slip and fall is a complicated area of law, which is why you need a lawyer after a slip and fall accident. With the right legal team on your side, you may be able to seek justice and recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Why Do I Need a Slip and Fall Lawyer?
Slip and fall is a complicated area of law. Even in the most clear-cut cases, the property owner or their insurance company will fight any claims and allege you were liable. Many of these accidents happen at large shopping malls, hospitals, hotels, and other properties. Not only are you facing a battle with major insurance companies, but more than one entity may prove liable. Your attorney will determine which parties are responsible, protect your rights and negotiate with the insurance company.
Slip and fall accidents fall under the category of premises liability. By law, the owner or manager of a property is required to maintain it safely. For a claim to go forward, establishing fault is imperative. In California, that means proving the property owner was negligent. A seasoned lawyer knows how to prove slip and fall liability based on the evidence.
A Skilled Slip and Fall Attorney Can Advise You of Your Rights
Before negotiating a settlement or filing a lawsuit, you need to understand your legal rights. Personal injury law is complex, and failing to understand your rights and obligations can put your financial recovery at risk. Your attorney could help you understand if you have a viable case for compensation. Generally, this requires evidence that negligence played a part in your accident. However, legal pitfalls could also put your case at risk, like the statute of limitations—the deadline that applies to every slip and fall injury case. If you file your lawsuit after the expiration of this deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case.
Find a Lawyer that Specializes in Slip and Fall Law
If the firm has attorneys who spend most of their practice working on slip and fall cases, that is the type of expertise you seek. Avoid law firms that “do it all” since some of these general practice attorneys are jacks of all trades, but not true masters in any particular area.
You also want a firm representing only accident victims, not insurance companies. A lawyer entirely focused on the victim in all cases is preferable to one representing both sides. However, that does not mean an attorney who has represented insurance companies in the past is out of consideration. These lawyers know how insurance companies operate, and that is valuable, as long as they now concentrate on accident victims.
Firm Resources, Expert Team, and Consultants in a Slip and Fall Lawsuit
Slip and fall cases often require evaluation and input by outside professionals, such as accident reconstruction experts, investigators, and medical specialists. Look for a slip and fall attorney who has established relationships with these types of outside consultants and has the resources necessary to bring them on board with your case.
At Salamati Law, we pride ourselves on being equipped with comprehensive legal resources, including a committed legal team and strategic consultants. In choosing Salamati Law, you not only gain access to seasoned slip and fall attorneys, but also tap into a reservoir of resources designed to bolster your case. This wealth of resources enables us to conduct thorough investigations, gather compelling evidence, and build robust cases.
A Client-Centric Approach
Navigating legal challenges can be overwhelming, especially for someone whose life has been turned upside down by serious injuries and mounting medical fees. Beyond legal expertise, your attorney should be able to empathize with what you are going through. An experienced attorney will approach each case with:
- Transparent Communication: Your attorney should prioritize open and honest communication, and keep you informed and empowered at every step of the process.
- Empathetic Understanding: A qualified attorney will understand the emotional challenges you face.
- Accessibility: Your chosen legal team should be readily available to address any of your queries, provide updates, and offer support whenever it is needed, ensuring that you never feel alone in the legal process.
Central to our philosophy is a client-centric approach that places your needs and concerns at the forefront. Our commitment to building strong attorney-client relationships is untiring and we strive to handle each of our client’s cases with the proper care and attention. When you choose Salamati Law, you choose a legal partner who not only brings expertise but also a sincere commitment to you and your case.
Proven Track Record of Success in Slip and Fall Lawsuits
It goes without saying that it’s best to choose a personal injury lawyer in downtown Los Angeles who has litigated these types of cases before. For slip and fall cases in particular, it’s helpful to choose a law firm that has litigated claims in both state and federal courts, as premises liability lawsuits may name governmental entities as defendants. Additionally, exploring a firm’s client testimonials can provide valuable insights into the lawyer’s ability to deliver successful results and client satisfaction.
Our skilled attorneys have consistently excelled in representing clients who have faced the aftermath of personal injuries. Our proficiency in securing favorable case results and the testimonials from those we’ve represented are a testament to the dedication and proficiency we bring to each case.
Questions to Ask a Los Angeles Slip and Fall Lawyer Before You Hire Them
When hiring a personal injury lawyer for a slip and fall accident claim, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to ensure you choose the best representation for your case. The following key questions can help you gauge the lawyer’s experience, fee structure, communication style, and potential outcomes for your case. Understanding these aspects can provide you with confidence in your legal representation and enhance your chances of a successful claim. From clarifying their billing practices and experience with similar cases to estimating potential compensation and ensuring effective communication, these questions cover essential factors to consider before making your decision.
What Do You Charge?
Understanding your attorney’s billing structure is essential to prevent future disputes or disappointment. Most slip and fall injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, taking an agreed-upon percentage of your settlement as their fee. This means you can start your case without any upfront payment.
Are You Experienced with Slip and Fall Cases?
Experience is crucial when hiring an attorney. Look for a lawyer who specializes in slip and fall cases, as their focused experience can be invaluable in securing the compensation you need.
What Is My Case Worth?
While no attorney can guarantee a specific outcome, they can assess your case and advise on potential compensation. Possible damages include:
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Past and future medical bills
- Emotional distress
- Diminished future earnings
- Disfigurement
How Will You Update Me on the Progress of My Case?
Communication is key. Ensure your attorney will keep you informed about your case’s progress and respond to your questions or requests. Discuss the best methods of communication during your consultation to stay updated on any developments.
Why Choose Salamati Law for Your Slip and Fall Case?
At Salamati Law, our dedicated team of slip and fall attorneys combines decades of legal expertise, a proven track record, and a client-centric approach to provide comprehensive and reliable representation for our clients. We have been helping victims of slip-and-fall accidents for nearly three decades and have successfully recovered millions of dollars from negligent property and business owners.
If you find yourself grappling with the aftermath of a slip and fall incident, Salamati Law stands ready to be your advocate. Contact us today to set up a free, no-obligation consultation.
