Slips and falls are quite common in Kansas City. They are regarded as minor mishaps by some individuals. This is far from the truth. They can lead to seriously serious injuries that are costly. You have a right to compensation for injuries in the event you slip and fall as a result of another person’s negligence. It is therefore wise to seek the advice of a personal injury lawyer in Kansas City.
What Are Slip and Fall Cases?
Slip and fall cases result when an individual gets injured after he/she stumbles over or slips upon a dangerous surface, due to a slippery floor, loose rug, faulty stairs, or uneven sidewalk. They result whenever the owner or manager of a building fails to keep it in good condition.
In Kansas City, most of the buildings are either full or old. That means hazards are hidden or difficult to see. You can slip on a spill that has never been wiped up or trip on a cracked sidewalk. Those kinds of accidents can lead to serious injuries like breaks or head trauma.
Why You Should Call a Personal Injury Lawyer
The majority of people do not seek a lawyer after a slip and fall. They might think that the injury is not that severe or are worried about coming up with money to pay an attorney. Yet, a reputable personal injury lawyer will get money for your injury without asking you for any money upfront.
A lawyer knows how to collect evidence, negotiate with insurance providers, and speak on your behalf. They will inform you if you have a case and guide you through the process. You can receive less than you deserve or damage your claim by not having an attorney.
Typical Injuries Caused by Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents are of different types and degrees. They can be mild initially but turn serious later. Some of the usual types of injuries are:
- Bone fractures
- Strain and sprain
- Head concussions
- Back and neck injuries
- Cut and bruise
Most injuries are slow to heal. Others are treated with physical therapy or surgery. Waiting too long to treat your injury can make it worse or cause lasting complications. An injury attorney will get you proper medical care and document your injuries in your case.
How Fault Is Determined in Slip and Fall Cases
To win a slip and fall case, you must prove the other party was negligent. That means proving the owner or manager didn’t fix or warn of the danger.
In Kansas City, you must prove:
- The owner knew or should have known about the danger
- They didn’t fix it or caution visitors
- That failure led to your fall and injury
A lawyer will gather evidence like photographs, witness statements, and maintenance records. The evidence makes your case good to prove the owner was negligent. Without proof, your case may be weak.
What Can You Recover?
Money obtained in a slip and fall claim is called compensation. It can cover:
- Medical costs and future care
- Lost wages if you are unable to work
- Pain and suffering caused by your injury
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation charges
- Long-term care in case you sustain permanent injury
All victims are subjected to surprise bills. Compensation will allow you to pay those bills and focus on recovery.
What to Do After a Kansas City Slip and Fall Accident
If you slip and fall, use these guidelines to protect your rights:
- Seek immediate medical care. Even though you may be fine, delayed-onset injuries often occur.
- Notify the property owner or manager of the accident. Document it.
- Photograph where you fell and your injuries.
- Write down what happened before you forget the details.
- Get contact information from witnesses.
- Meet with a personal injury attorney before talking with insurance companies about anything.
If you follow these steps, they will provide your attorney with a sound case.
Why Insurance Companies May Not Always Help
Insurance companies would like to pay you as little as possible. They will try to blame someone else or inform you that the injuries are minor. They will ask you to give a recorded statement or sign papers in a rush.
A personal injury attorney is familiar with these tactics and protects you. Your attorney will deal with insurance companies and make sure that you get a fair settlement.
Kansas City Slip and Fall Statute of Limitations
There are five years in Missouri to sue for personal injuries that were suffered in a slip and fall. This is called the statute of limitations.
It is better to do it earlier. Witnesses can forget, and evidence can be lost. The earlier you move, the better your prospects of success will be.
Why Some Slip and Fall Cases Are Harder Than Others
Not all slip and fall cases are hard. At times, the property owner might tell you that you caused your fall yourself. Or else they might tell you that they did not realize that there was a hazard. Additionally, if you were yourself putting yourself in danger or were yourself careless and ignoring warning signals, your case would be weaker. A professional personal injury attorney is aware of how to handle such challenges. He or she can make a presentation of your case and establish negligence on the part of the owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do right after a slip and fall?
Seek medical treatment. Report the accident. Take photos and document the environment. Get counsel from a personal injury attorney prior to making statements to insurance adjusters.
2. How long do I have to sue if I slip and fall?
You have five years in the state of Missouri to sue for personal injury. But it’s a good idea to do it quickly to save your evidence and case.
3. Can I get money back if I was partly to blame?
Yes. Missouri uses “comparative fault.” Your settlement will be decreased by your percentage of fault if you are at fault.
4. What can I recover?
You can recover medical bills, lost income from work, pain and suffering, and sometimes additional items if the owner was very careless.
5. Do I pay lawyer fees upfront?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee. You only pay if you win.
Final Words
Kansas City slip and fall accidents can spin your world around in an instant. You can be faced with medical bills, lost income, and a nagging aching. A Kansas City Slip And Fall Accident Lawyer battles for you for what you are owed, and that is money. Don’t try to do it yourself. Let an attorney battle for your rights and your future.
