Go From Slip To Stability With Our Slip-And-Fall Attorney
At the Law Office of Gregory E. Price, P.S., our attorney has 40 years of experience in handling premise liability cases. We promptly investigate the accident and provide each client with an evaluation of their case, while ensuring the client receives proper medical treatment and that bills are handled in a timely manner.
Determining Liability In Washington Slip-And-Fall Accidents
In Washington, commercial and residential property owners do have a legal duty to keep their property safe for visitors. They are also responsible for injuries caused by hazardous conditions that they either created or knew about and did not take proper precautions to protect those who were on their property. However, this duty depends on the visitor’s status as an invitee, licensee or trespasser. Invitees, such as customers in a store, are owed the highest duty of care, while trespassers are owed the least.
Although many people are under the mistaken belief that any injury that occurs on another’s property results in automatic compensation for those injuries, that is not the case. To establish liability, the injured party must prove that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to address it in a timely manner.
Common Types Of Slip-And-Fall And Premises Liability Cases
Injuries on public property or on business premises can arise from numerous incidents, the most common of which is when a person falls as a result of a hazardous condition on the property. Some examples include:
- Wet or slippery floors
- Icy sidewalks or parking lots
- Uneven or cracked pavement
- Poorly lit stairways or hallways
- Damaged handrails
- Debris on walkways
- Swimming pool accidents
- Elevator or escalator malfunctions
- Falling objects
Such personal injury accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries, neck damage, spinal cord damage, fractures and other injuries that result in high medical bills.
What Damages Are Available To Me?
The types of damages a slip-and-fall victim can file for depend on the severity of their injuries. For minor injuries, compensation may cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
In more severe cases, victims may be eligible for additional damages, such as:
- Long-term medical care
- Rehabilitation costs
- Loss of earning capacity
- Compensation for permanent disability or disfigurement
In cases of extreme negligence, the court may award punitive damages to punish the property owner and deter similar behavior. The emotional impact of the injury, such as anxiety or depression, may also factor into compensation. Washington has no cap on economic damages, but noneconomic damages have a limit of 43% of the average annual wage in Washington multiplied by the victim’s life expectancy, with a minimum of 15 years.
Stand Tall With The Help Of A Personal Injury Lawyer
We provide free, confidential initial consultations. Learn more about your rights by setting up your consultation today. You can reach us at 360-989-9900 or send us an email.