Oklahoma City Slip & Fall Attorney

Slip and fall accidents often result in serious injuries. Fortunately, personal injury lawsuits allow victims and their families to seek compensation from those responsible. These lawsuits can be complicated and require extensive documentation to establish the property owner’s negligence. Therefore, engaging an experienced slip and fall attorney to guide you through the process is vital. Contacting a slip and fall lawyer in Oklahoma City promptly can ensure you collect the necessary evidence, such as accident reports and witness statements, to support your claim effectively.

For help with any type of premises liability case, including a slip and fall accident, you can rely on our team at Fulmer Sill. Our firm is known for taking on large corporations and insurance companies, tirelessly advocating for the rights of our clients. With our robust resources and dedication, we pursue even the most complex slip and fall cases.

As with any injury, it is advised you avoid speaking with representatives from the other side before meeting with an attorney. These representatives may attempt to minimize your injuries and delay or deny your claim. Instead, give us a call to protect your rights and start working toward securing maximum compensation for your injuries with the assistance of a skilled slip and fall lawyer.

Causes of Slip & Fall Accidents in Oklahoma City

Slip and fall accidents may be caused by a wide range of factors, including:

• Inadequate lighting
• Missing railings or other fall protection
• Unstable walking surfaces due to ice, rain, or other hazards
• Debris or equipment in walkways
• Swelling or sinking surfaces
• Gaps in flooring or paving
• Slippery surfaces due to spills, cleaning, or recently waxed floors
• Poor property design
• Uneven surfaces
• No signage or warning about a hazard

Common Injuries from Slip & Fall Accidents

Injuries suffered in a slip and fall accident can range from minor bumps and bruises to serious brain and spinal cord injuries. These injuries can have long-term implications on your physical health and financial stability.

Common slip and fall accident injuries include:

• Contusions, sprains, and lacerations
• Fractured bones
• Head injuries and concussions
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Back injuries and herniated discs
• Dislocated hips and shoulders
• Torn or sprained ligaments
• Torn muscles and tendons
• Knee injuries

Why You Should See a Doctor Right Away After a Fall

After a fall, do not try to “tough it out.” It is common for people injured in a fall to ignore symptoms or try to live with the pain. This is a mistake. Seeking professional medical attention will safeguard your health and provide crucial documentation for legal proceedings in your slip and fall case.

In many cases, early medical intervention can be the difference between a successful and unsuccessful recovery. Delayed treatment might complicate or worsen your condition, so it is important to see a healthcare professional immediately. Remember, your health and well-being are important. Let your healthcare provider know about all of your symptoms and do not downplay your injuries. Accurate medical documentation will be critical to the success of any potential personal injury claims.

How Do I Prove the Property Owner Was Negligent?

To prove a property owner’s liability for slip and fall injuries, establish four key elements:

• Duty of care: Property owners have a legal responsibility to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition for visitors. Whether it’s a grocery store, office building, or a private home, they must ensure hazards are addressed promptly.
• Breach of duty: You must show that the property owner failed to fulfill this duty. For example, if a spill occurred in a store and the owner or employees didn’t clean it up in a reasonable amount of time or provide adequate warnings, they may have breached their duty to keep the property safe.
• Causation: It’s crucial to prove that the property owner’s negligence directly caused your slip and fall accident. This means that the dangerous condition (e.g., wet floor, uneven surface) must have been the primary cause of your fall.
• Damages: You need to demonstrate that you suffered actual harm as a result of the accident. This could include physical injuries, medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

In Oklahoma, you must also be aware of the state’s comparative negligence laws. If you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Gathering compelling evidence, such as photos, medical records, and witness statements, is crucial to proving negligence in your case and maximizing potential recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slip & Fall Injuries

How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Slip & Fall Lawsuit?

Whether you have a viable legal claim depends on the accident’s circumstances. In Oklahoma, an injured party may receive compensation in a slip and fall case when it can be proven that the property owner or manager’s negligence was a direct cause of the victim’s injuries. Every situation is different, so the best way to find out if you have a valid claim is to consult with a knowledgeable slip and fall lawyer.

How Long Do I Have to File a Slip & Fall Lawsuit in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the injury. If the two-year period has passed, the courts can dismiss your claim, and you could be left with no way to recover compensation. Act swiftly and secure legal counsel immediately to protect your rights and preserve your claims.

Can I Sue If I Slipped & Fell on Private Property?

Yes, it is possible to file a personal injury lawsuit if you slip and fall on private property; however, premises liability laws are complex and depend on the unique circumstances surrounding your accident. It is beneficial to have legal representation familiar with Oklahoma’s premises liability laws to navigate these complexities. To find out if you have a potential claim, contact our Oklahoma City slip and fall lawyers.

What Compensation Can I Seek After a Slip & Fall Accident?

The compensation you may seek after a slip and fall accident can include medical expenses, which cover current and future care costs; lost wages, reflecting income lost during recovery; and pain and suffering damages, which account for the physical pain and emotional distress experienced. Additionally, if the injury results in a long-term disability, you might be entitled to compensation for loss of earning capacity and the need for lifestyle adjustments.

How Can a Lawyer Assist Me in a Slip & Fall Claim?

A slip and fall lawyer can be instrumental in navigating the complexities of a slip and fall claim by gathering and preserving evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing your interests in court if necessary. They can help in establishing negligence and demonstrating the full extent of your injuries and their impact on your life. Additionally, an attorney can provide peace of mind by handling the legal process, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Understanding Oklahoma’s Slip & Fall Laws

Oklahoma has specific laws that govern premises liability, which directly impact slip and fall cases. Property owners are obligated to maintain their premises reasonably safe for visitors. When a slip and fall occurs, the injured party must prove that the property owner had actual or constructive notice of the hazard and failed to address it in a timely manner. Oklahoma also follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning if the injured party is found partially at fault, their compensation may be reduced in proportion to their fault.

Contact Fulmer Sill for a Free Consultation

If you were injured in a slip and fall accident, your next step should be to contact our attorneys at Fulmer Sill. We know how to gather compelling evidence to support claims for medical expenses, pain and suffering, disability, and more. With years of experience, we understand the nuances of providing personal attention to each client’s needs.