Slip and Fall Lawyer in Little Falls, Minnesota

Accidents can happen when we least expect them, and sometimes, these accidents can result in serious injuries. A slip and fall incident is a common type of accident in Little Falls, Minnesota that often leads to injuries. Slip and fall accidents can cause significant harm, ranging from broken bones, to torn ligaments, to traumatic brain injuries.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries as a result of a slip and fall accident in Little Falls, Minnesota, it is important to seek the assistance of an experienced Little Falls personal injury lawyer who can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.  At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we are local law firm ,serving Little Falls and all of  Minnesota,  that dedicates its entire practice to handling personal injury cases, including slip and fall accidents.

If you need legal representation in the aftermath of a slip and fall accident, or have questions about your situation, we are here to help. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation to discuss your potential claim.

Understanding Slip and Fall Accidents

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and sometimes, unfortunately, those turns can lead to unforeseen accidents and personal injuries. Among the various types of accidents, slip and fall accidents can be particularly devastating, causing significant injuries and disrupting the lives of those involved.  With the harsh weather in Minnesota, unfortunately, slip and fall accidents are some of the most common types of accidents causing injury.

Whether on a sidewalk or walkway, in a store, or on private property, slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere.  If you have sustained serious injuries as a result of a slip and fall, the aftermath can be overwhelming.  You may be out of work and losing wages, and have medical bills piling up.  You may be wondering what you can do to help yourself and your family.  In these challenging times, having a compassionate and experienced slip and fall lawyer by your side can make all the difference. Learn more about slip and fall accidents.

Defining Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents occur when an individual loses their footing, balance, or traction, leading to a fall.  If this happens on someone else’s property, you may have the right to pursue a claim for your damages. These accidents can result from various hazards, including the following:

Wet Floors

Slip and fall accidents often occur due to wet floors, whether caused by spills, leaks, or recently cleaned surfaces. When slippery floors are not promptly addressed or marked, individuals can lose their footing, leading to falls and injuries. Property owners are responsible for maintaining dry and safe walking surfaces by promptly addressing spills, and using caution signs to warn visitors of potential hazards.

Uneven Surfaces

Uneven surfaces, such as cracked sidewalks, uneven flooring, or poorly maintained walkways, can pose a significant risk for slip and fall accidents. These uneven surfaces can catch individuals off guard by being present in an area where encountering the hazard is unexpected, causing them to trip and lose their balance. Property owners should regularly inspect and repair any uneven surfaces to prevent such accidents and ensure the safety of those on their premises.  If they are unable to repair the surface, they can paint it a bright color or place a sign to warn of its existence.

Inadequate Lighting

Insufficient lighting can create hazardous conditions out of conditions that ordinarily wouldn’t be hazardous in proper lighting.  It does so by making conditions difficult to see and encounter safely.  This is, especially true in dimly lit areas or poorly illuminated staircases and hallways. Without proper visibility, individuals may be unable to see potential obstacles, steps, or changes in elevation, increasing the risk of slip and fall accidents. Property owners should ensure adequate lighting is installed and maintained throughout their premises to enhance safety and prevent accidents.

Improperly Maintained Premises

Negligent property maintenance can contribute to slip and fall accidents. Failure to repair or replace broken handrails, loose floorboards, torn carpets, or other hazards can result in serious injuries. Property owners are legally obligated to regularly inspect and maintain their premises, promptly addressing any potential dangers that could lead to slip and fall accidents. Neglecting proper maintenance puts visitors at risk and may make property owners liable for resulting injuries.

Liability in Slip and Fall Cases

Determining liability in slip and fall cases can be complex. In Minnesota, it requires establishing that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition that caused the slip and fall accident and failed to take reasonable steps to address it.  This often involves collecting evidence, such as photographs, witness accounts, surveillance footage, maintenance records, and expert opinions and testimony.

Minnesota Laws Regarding Slip and Fall Claims

Navigating the legal process is crucial when dealing with slip and fall accidents in Minnesota. Understanding the relevant laws and sources provides the necessary framework for pursuing compensation for your injuries.

Statute of Limitations

In slip and fall cases, it is important to be aware of the statute of limitations, the timeframe within which legal action must be initiated. In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including slip and fall accidents, based on negligence is generally six years from the incident date. Failing to file a claim within this timeframe may result in losing your right to seek compensation.  Other types of claims may have shorter limitations periods, so it is important that you seek the advice of a slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible after your accident so that your rights may be protected.

Open and Obvious Defense

A defense frequently raised by property owners in slip and fall claims is the open and obvious defense.  This defense provides that if the hazardous condition that caused the fall was apparent and visible to an ordinary and reasonable person, they should have been aware of it and taken necessary precautions to avoid injury. This defense can act as a complete defense to slip and fall claims.

Comparative Fault

Minnesota follows the legal principle of comparative fault, which means that the injured party’s compensation may be reduced based on their own level of fault in the accident. If the injured person is found partially responsible for their injuries, their compensation will be reduced proportionately. However, if the injured person is deemed more than 50% at fault, they may be barred from recovering compensation (Minnesota Statute 604.01).

We Can Help with Your Slip and Fall Accident Claim

Slip and fall accidents can cause severe injuries and physical, emotional, and financial hardships. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident in Little Falls, Minnesota, consulting a slip and fall lawyer is essential to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation. Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, is dedicated to providing skilled legal representation to individuals seeking justice for their injuries.

Don’t hesitate to contact Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, and let experienced professionals fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.