What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in Missouri
In Missouri, property owners must maintain their premises to ensure their safety for visitors. If they fail to do so and someone is injured, the victim may recover damages in a premises liability lawsuit against the person or company that owns the property.
Proving liability in a slip and fall case can be complex. You must establish that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to take reasonable steps to address it. However, with the right approach and the assistance of a reputable injury attorney, it’s possible to hold a negligent property owner accountable and seek compensation for your slip and fall. It’s essential to consult a knowledgeable personal injury attorney in Missouri to understand how these laws apply to your case and navigate the legal process effectively.
After a slip and fall accident in Missouri, here’s what you should do:
- Seek medical help. Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine at first, getting evaluated by a medical professional to ensure no hidden injuries is essential.
- Document the accident scene. Take photos or videos of where the slip and fall happened. Make sure to capture any hazardous conditions, such as uneven flooring, spills, or inadequate lighting.
- Report the slip and fall accident. Notify the property owner, manager, or supervisor about the incident immediately. Make sure to obtain a copy of the incident report for your records.
- Collect witness information. If there were any witnesses to the accident, collect their contact information. Witness testimony can be valuable when determining liability.
- Preserve evidence. Keep any clothing or shoes worn during the accident, as they may serve as evidence. Also, hold onto any medical records, bills, and receipts for your injury and treatment.
- Consult with a personal injury attorney. Consider hiring a personal injury attorney who specializes in slip and fall cases. They can help determine who is liable for your accident, guide you through the legal process, and ensure you receive the maximum compensation you’re entitled to by law.
Why Should I Hire a Slip and Fall Accident Attorney?
Hiring a personal injury attorney for your slip and fall accident can be beneficial for several reasons:
Legal expertise. Personal injury attorneys have specialized knowledge and experience navigating slip and fall cases. They understand the relevant Missouri laws and can effectively advocate for your rights.
Investigation and evidence gathering. An attorney can thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and interview witnesses to strengthen your case.
Negotiation with insurance companies. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or deny liability altogether. A skilled slip and fall attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to seek fair compensation for your injuries.
Representation in court. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney can represent you in court and advocate for your interests during litigation.
Missouri Slip and Fall Laws
In Missouri, slip and fall cases are generally governed by premises liability laws, which hold property owners responsible for maintaining safe conditions on their premises. Here are some critical aspects of slip and fall laws in Missouri.
Proving Negligence
To establish liability in a slip and fall case, the injured party (plaintiff) must prove that the property owner (defendant) was negligent. This typically involves demonstrating:
- The existence of a hazardous condition on the property.
- The property owner knew or should have known about the hazard.
- The property owner failed to take reasonable steps to address the hazard or warn visitors about it.
Comparative Fault
Missouri follows a comparative fault system, which means that if the victim is found to be partially responsible for the accident, their compensation may be reduced proportionally. However, if the injured party’s fault is less than 50%, they may still recover damages.
Statute of Limitations
In Missouri, there is a limited time frame, known as the statute of limitations, within which slip and fall lawsuits must be filed. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including slip and fall accidents, is typically five years from the accident date.
Damages
Suppose a property owner is found liable for a slip and fall accident. In that case, the injured party may be entitled to various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a slip and fall accident, hiring a skilled Missouri personal injury attorney at The Goss Law Firm can help ensure you’re covered for your injuries, damages, pain and suffering, and more. Speak with us for free today.
We’re Compassionate Slip and Fall Attorneys in Missouri
At The Goss Law Firm, we understand and have seen the mental, physical, and financial impact of a slip and fall accident firsthand. We’re ready to put our experience and expertise to work to protect your rights, hold the property owner accountable, and help secure the compensation and justice you deserve for your slip and fall accident.
Contact us today by calling our office at 816-888-5000 for a free legal consultation.
