Slip and Fall / Premises Liability

Seattle Slip and Fall / Premises Liability Law

When it comes to slip and fall accidents, having an experienced lawyer who knows the specific laws and rules of the jurisdiction will make all the difference in getting you a fair settlement.

Accidents that result from a slip and fall can result in serious injury, dramatically impacting your mobility and ability to function in everyday life. These claims fall under “premises liability law,” which involves the legal responsibility of owners and occupiers of property for injuries that occur as a result of a mishap on their property. Injuries sustained by falls can greatly interfere with your everyday life, preventing you from attending work or school and impacting the way you go about normal activities. They are also the second leading cause of brain and spinal cord injuries.

Slip and fall accidents can happen for a number of reasons, such as uneven stairs, an icy sidewalk, or as a result of spilled liquid on the floor. The actual liability varies greatly depending on the location where the incident occurred and often relies on whether the property owner was aware of the dangerous hazards on his or her property. For this reason, it’s crucial to engage a premises liability lawyer who is experienced and knowledgeable about the specific laws and rules of the jurisdiction where the mishap occurred.

Even common accidents can present complex legal issues. Slip and fall accident cases involve establishing legal liability and proving negligence on the part of the property owner for injuries that occur on a property. Successful prosecution of a premises liability case requires knowledge, resources, and experience in the multiple legal specialties and subspecialties involved in bringing such cases. The attorneys at Scott and Scott, PLLC are experienced and knowledgeable in Seattle premises liability law and will advise you on your rights and work to secure you a favorable outcome.

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Slip and Fall / Premises Liability FAQ's

1. What is premises liability in Washington State?

Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility property owners and occupiers have to maintain safe conditions for visitors. If someone is injured due to unsafe conditions, like a wet floor, broken stairs, or icy sidewalk, the owner may be held liable. Washington law requires property owners to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable injuries.

2. What should I do after a slip and fall accident in Seattle?

Seek medical attention immediately, report the incident to the property owner or manager, take photos of the hazard, collect contact information from any witnesses, and preserve any clothing or shoes worn at the time. Then contact a Seattle slip and fall attorney to protect your rights and begin a legal claim.

3. Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for my fall?

Yes. Washington follows a comparative fault rule, which means you can still recover compensation even if you were partly to blame. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. An experienced Seattle premises liability lawyer can help minimize your share of fault and build a strong case.

4. How do I prove the property owner was negligent?

You must show that the property owner either knew, or should have known, about the hazardous condition and failed to fix it or provide adequate warning. Evidence like surveillance footage, maintenance logs, and witness statements can help establish negligence in a premises liability claim.

5. What types of injuries are common in Seattle slip and fall cases?

Slip and fall accidents can lead to serious injuries, including broken bones, concussions, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. In severe cases, these injuries can result in permanent disability, missed work, and long-term medical care.

6. What types of compensation can I receive in a slip and fall lawsuit?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future lost income, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. A Seattle personal injury attorney can help you assess your damages and fight for the maximum compensation available.

7. How long do I have to file a slip and fall lawsuit in Washington?

In Washington State, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including slip and fall accidents, is three years from the date of the injury. It’s critical to act quickly so that key evidence is preserved and your legal rights are protected.

8. What if I didn’t report the fall right away?

Delayed reporting doesn’t automatically ruin your case. It’s common for people to “wait and see” if the pain goes away. If you’re now experiencing symptoms, it’s not too late to take action.

9. How long will this process take?

It depends on your case type and whether we reach a settlement or go to trial. We aim for timely resolution and will keep you updated at every step so you’re never left in the dark.

10. Do I have to talk to the insurance company?

No. Once you hire us, we deal with the insurance companies on your behalf — so you don’t have to worry about saying the wrong thing or being pressured into a lowball offer.

11. What if I already started the claim process myself?

That’s okay — many clients come to us after trying to handle things alone. We can step in at any point to make sure your rights are protected and deadlines aren’t missed.

Questions You Might Be Afraid to Ask

Am I overreacting?

No. You’re reacting like a human being in a hard situation. Our job is to take the weight off your shoulders.

What if people think I’m just looking for money?

Most of our clients feel this way at first. What you’re doing is protecting yourself and your future.

I don’t want to be one of those people who sues.

You’re not. You’re someone who was hurt and deserves to be treated with dignity.