Madison Slip and Fall Lawyers
Slips and falls are consistently one of the leading causes of severe injuries in adults. Among other serious consequences, traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common result of these types of accidents, and the results can be devastating for the injured parties and their families.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. We have a team of trusted and experienced Madison slip and fall attorneys who can walk you through the process and help you understand your options.
Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm Helps Accident Victims
At Pemberton Personal Injury Attorneys, we recognize the unique challenges faced by victims of slip and fall accidents in Madison. These incidents can lead to serious injuries, costly medical bills, and significant emotional distress. Our seasoned lawyers are skilled in handling slip and fall cases, dedicating themselves to ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Time and time again, we’ve achieved hundreds of thousands of dollars in results for our clients. While these results do not guarantee a particular outcome for your case, we are confident in our ability to bring you the best possible resolution, given your unique circumstances.
By meticulously investigating the circumstances of your accident, we strive to establish liability and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Our firm stands with you every step of the way, providing personalized legal guidance tailored to your specific situation. Trust in our legal knowledge, compassion, and commitment to championing your rights.
What Are the Common Causes Of Slips And Falls?
If you have lived in Wisconsin for at least one winter, we don’t need to tell you that icy or wet pavement can quickly lead to slips and falls. It’s no surprise that this is a common component in slip and fall injuries.
Dimly lit paths or walkways, potholes in a walking trail, or loose gravel on a walking surface can also lead to slips and falls. Carpet that is bunched up or frayed on stairs, clothes or other obstacles in store walkways, and wet surfaces from spills that haven’t been cleaned up can also lead to slips and falls.
Types of Injuries in Slip and Fall Cases
Slip and fall accidents can result in a wide array of injuries, ranging from minor to catastrophic. The impact and nature of these injuries often depend on the circumstances of the fall, such as the height, surface, and individual’s physical condition. Common injuries include:
- Sprains and Strains: Often affecting the wrists, ankles, and knees, these injuries can cause pain and limit mobility.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Particularly common in the hips, arms, and legs, these injuries may require surgical intervention and lengthy recovery.
- Head Injuries: From mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries, falls can have serious implications for cognitive function and overall well-being.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Slips and falls can lead to herniated discs, spinal fractures, or even permanent paralysis.
- Cuts and Abrasions: These may seem minor, but can lead to infections and require medical treatment.
Likely Locations for Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can occur almost anywhere, but are more prevalent in specific locations:
- Retail Stores: Wet floors, cluttered aisles, or poorly maintained surfaces can create hazards.
- Workplaces: Especially in industrial settings, spills, uneven flooring, or inadequate lighting may lead to falls.
- Public Spaces: Sidewalks, parks, and public buildings may have poorly maintained areas that pose risks.
- Private Homes: Staircases, bathrooms, and kitchens are common locations for falls in the home, often due to slippery surfaces or lack of proper railings.
- Nursing Homes and Healthcare Facilities: Vulnerable populations such as the elderly may be at an increased risk due to mobility challenges and environmental factors.
While no one can undo the damage that’s already occurred, you should be aware of the power you have to seek legal redress. If you or a loved one has suffered from a slip and fall accident, consulting with an experienced lawyer can help determine the best course of action tailored to your unique situation.
What Should I Do If I’m Injured From A Slip Or Fall?
You may feel like the incident isn’t severe at first, but problems can arise later due to injuries sustained. You can take a few steps to help you in the future.
- Document what happened. This includes where and when it happened and the circumstances surrounding the slip or fall.
- Discuss with anyone who may have witnessed the incident what they saw and ask for their contact information, so you have that for the future should you need it.
- Report the slip or fall to the property owner or a manager as soon as possible and obtain their contact information.
- Take pictures right after the incident of any apparent injuries, photos of the surroundings, and pictures as bruises or cuts change, so you have thorough documentation.
- Seek medical attention. Discuss any pain you may have with your doctor if there is evidence of a concussion or brain injury.
- Contact an experienced attorney to discuss what the next steps are. There may be more that you can do based on the details of your specific incident that can help you in the future should you pursue compensation.
Compensation for Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can lead to significant physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. It’s essential to know that victims may be entitled to compensation to cover various damages. The following outlines the types of compensation that might be available when you take legal action with the help of an experienced slip and fall attorney:
- Medical Expenses: This includes costs for immediate medical treatment, ongoing care, rehabilitation, and future medical needs related to the injury.
- Lost Wages: If a victim is unable to work due to injuries sustained in a slip and fall accident, they may be compensated for lost income and potential future earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: This takes into account the physical pain and emotional trauma experienced by the victim. Compensation can vary widely based on the severity and lasting impact of the injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: This refers to the diminished ability to enjoy the daily activities and hobbies that were once part of the victim’s life before the accident.
- Property Damage: If any personal property (such as eyeglasses or clothing) was damaged during the fall, compensation may cover the repair or replacement costs.
- Wrongful Death: If a slip and fall accident tragically results in death, family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of consortium, and other related damages.
Every Case is Unique — That’s Why We Take a Unique Approach
The amount and type of compensation depend on various factors, including the severity of the injury, the circumstances of the accident, the negligence of the responsible party, and the laws of the jurisdiction. Proving liability often requires comprehensive evidence, such as witness statements, photographs of the scene, medical records, and expert testimony.
The legal process following a slip and fall accident can be a complex process. A lawyer with an in-depth understanding of premises liability law is essential when it comes to navigating these cases and pursuing the best results. Hiring an experienced slip and fall lawyer in Madison, WI, can provide the essential guidance, advocacy, and support that you need during this difficult time. A skilled attorney will evaluate your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court to ensure that you receive the fair and just compensation you deserve.
What Is Wisconsin’s “Safe Place” Law?
The Safe Place law requires employers or the owner of the buildings/property to keep their property and premises safe. The law covers any maintenance, construction, or repairs that occur.
Two categories are outlined as violations in the Safe Place law. Defects associated with the structure include an unsafe condition brought on by a lack of regular property or building structure maintenance. A structural defect contains changes that have been made but not completed to be safe. An example would be a new staircase put into a building, but a handrail wasn’t added, making it unsafe.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations On Personal Injury?
Personal injury cases can arise from slips and falls. In Wisconsin, individuals have three years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. There are exceptions that change the timeline. You can discuss the details of your situation with a knowledgeable attorney to determine what timeline you would need to follow to have a valid case.
Why Should I Work With a Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer?
If your injuries were the result of someone inadequately taking care of their property, you might be eligible for compensation for your injuries. We have worked with clients for over 20 years in helping them to determine whether or not they qualify for compensation and then walking them through the process to obtain it.
With over 20 years of experience in our office, you can rest assured that we have what it takes to represent you and your family with confidence. Call our office today at 608-448-6242 to discuss your specific case and learn more about how we can help you during a free consultation with our team.
Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm
5609 Medical Cir #4
Madison, WI 53719
(608) 448-6242