When people sustain injuries from unexpected falls on public or private property, they might face weeks or longer in a hospital, considerable medical bills, and lost time from work. These incidents often involve multiple parties, including property owners, maintenance companies, and managing agents; determining liability is challenging. Working with a dedicated legal team is often the best way to pursue fair compensation for damages.

The San Jacinto slip and fall accident lawyers at Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel (LMSCR) provide clarity on liability issues and potential compensation avenues for these clients. Our legal professionals review each incident in depth, identify responsible parties, and develop strategies tailored to each circumstance. By addressing procedural requirements and applying applicable law, our team protects the legal interests of injured individuals from the outset.

These cases fall into the personal injury category, which involves some common factors differentiating it from other legal cases. We keep our clients informed throughout the process and answer all of their questions with care and professionalism.

What Common Hazards Cause Slip and Fall Incidents?

Slip and fall injuries arise from a variety of unsafe conditions found indoors and outdoors

• Wet floors from spilled liquids or recent cleanings often contribute to falls in retail stores and restaurants. 
• Uneven pavement, potholes, and poorly maintained walkways present risks on sidewalks and parking lots. 
• Inadequate lighting can conceal obstacles or slick surfaces, increasing the likelihood of an accident. 
• Loose rugs, torn carpeting, and unsecured mats may shift unexpectedly underfoot. 
• Minor defects in stair construction, such as missing handrails or worn steps, can result in serious injuries. 

Each hazard requires distinct investigative techniques to establish negligence and determine liability.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim after a Fall?

California’s personal injury statute of limitations generally allows two years from the date of injury to commence legal proceedings, and filing within this period is vital to avoid the dismissal of claims. 

Certain circumstances, such as incidents involving public entities, impose shorter deadlines and additional procedural requirements. For example, claims against government agencies often require a written notice of intention to file within six months. 

Missing these deadlines can bar recovery regardless of the merits of the case. Our San Jacinto slip and fall accident lawyers can advise you on the precise timeframe applicable to your scenario and assist with the timely submission of all necessary documents.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for Injuries From a Fall?

Property owners are typically the first party considered for liability, but there may be others. Responsibility can extend beyond them to include property managers, maintenance contractors, and occupants with control over the premises.

• Landlords must address hazards in common areas and protect tenants and visitors from foreseeable dangers. 
• Business operators owe a duty of care to customers by keeping floors dry and hazard-free. 
• Contractors hired to perform cleaning or repairs may face liability if their work creates unsafe conditions.
• In rare instances, manufacturers of defective flooring materials can be named defendants when a product’s design or installation contributes to a fall. 

Identifying the correct defendant or defendants is a critical step that shapes the course of recovery efforts.

What Damages Can I Recover After a Slip and Fall?

In successful claims, our San Jacinto slip and fall accident lawyers help injured clients obtain compensation for medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and assistive devices. Lost wages for time away from work and diminished earning capacity are recoverable when injuries affect future income potential. 

In slip and fall cases, pain and suffering awards address physical discomfort and emotional distress resulting from the incident. When there is permanent impairment or disfigurement, additional damages may be awarded under the category of loss of enjoyment of life. Punitive damages, intended to punish egregious misconduct, may apply in rare circumstances where a defendant acted with willful disregard for safety.

How Do San Jacinto Slip and Fall Accident Lawyers Build a Case?

After a consultation and agreement, our San Jacinto legal team conducts a site inspection to document hazardous conditions and collect photographic evidence. We interview eyewitnesses and obtain incident reports filed with property management or law enforcement; a review of surveillance footage may reveal the sequence of events leading to the fall. 

Another step is examining the client’s medical records to determine if they correlate injuries with the accident; we also assess long-term treatment needs. Our team consults with retained professionals like engineers or safety consultants when necessary to evaluate property defects. By combining factual findings with applicable law, we construct persuasive narratives that support liability and client damages.

How Much Will It Cost to Hire Counsel for My Slip and Fall Case?

Our San Jacinto slip and fall accident lawyers handle slip and fall matters on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no upfront legal fees. Our clients pay legal charges after settlements or court verdicts. This arrangement aligns our interests with those of our clients, encouraging the pursuit of maximum recovery. 

Disbursements for expert witnesses, court filings, and investigation expenses are advanced by the firm and reimbursed only upon a successful outcome. Prospective clients receive a clear fee agreement outlining all terms before representation begins.

What Should I Bring to My Initial Consultation?

To facilitate a productive meeting, gather any medical records related to the accident, photographs of the accident scene, and contact information for witnesses. Incident reports, property management correspondence, and insurance communications are also helpful; pay stubs or tax returns can demonstrate lost earnings. 

Keeping a journal of pain levels, mobility limitations, and emotional impact provides additional insight into non-economic damages. Our San Jacinto legal team also works to obtain missing records and fill evidentiary gaps after retention.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Skilled San Jacinto Slip and Fall Accident Lawyers at Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel

Our team is prepared to review the facts of your case, explain your rights, and outline potential recovery strategies. For a free consultation, call our San Jacinto slip and fall accident lawyers at LMSCR at 909-889-1131 or complete our online form. Our Ontario and Victorville, California, offices serve clients in San Bernardino County, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Colton, and Riverside County.