Brian White | September 6, 2022 | Premises Liability, Slip and Fall
If someone falls on your property, are you liable? It depends on how the person was injured and their status when the fall occurred. If you recently slipped and fell while visiting someone else’s property, you should consider hiring a Houston slip and fall accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.
What Are Some Common Causes of Slips and Falls?
People can slip and fall because of nearly any reason. According to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), floors and flooring materials cause over two million annual fall injuries.
Common causes of slips and falls include:
- Floor mats
- Uneven flooring materials
- Missing stairs or handles
- Broken tile
- Cluttered walkways
- Poor lighting
- Slick surfaces
An experienced slip and fall accident attorney can investigate your fall and determine if you may have a valid claim against the property owner.
Common Slip and Fall Injuries
According to the NFSI, falls are the leading cause of emergency visits each year. It also reports that half of all homebound accidental deaths result from falls, most of which occur at ground level (rather than from an elevation).
Fractures and broken bones are the most common injury people suffer after a fall. Hip fractures are the most severe type of fracture people suffer and can lead to additional problems. Falls can also lead to other injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and soft tissue injuries.
Are You Liable If Someone Falls on Your Property?
Property owners can be held liable if someone slips and falls while lawfully on their property. If you’re invited somewhere for a social purpose, such as to visit a friend or colleague, the property owner must warn you about any known hazards that are not open and obvious to you.
Business owners have a heightened responsibility to keep the property safe because they stand to profit from your visit. The property owner’s responsibilities are to:
- Regularly inspect the premises for possible dangers
- Promptly fix any discovered dangers
- Warn visitors about dangers if they cannot be fixed right away
If a property owner fails to take these reasonable steps to keep you safe, they may be liable for the harm you suffer.
Can Someone Sue If They Fall on Your Property?
So, can someone sue you for falling on your property? Possibly. The best ways to guard against this possibility are to:
- Keep your property in a safe condition
- Regularly check for hazards
- Make prompt repairs when you discover a problem
- Warn your visitors about known dangers on your property
If you slipped and fell on someone else’s property, consult this list to see if the property owner acted within their duty of care.
What Happens If You Slip and Fall on Your Own Property?
If you slipped and fell while on your own property, you may be able to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance policy. Check your policy to determine your rights and responsibilities, and reach out for legal assistance if you need it.
What Compensation Can You Seek in Slip and Fall Claims in Houston, TX?
If you file a claim against the at-fault property owner or with your own insurance company, you may be able to recover compensation for your:
- Medical expenses to diagnose and treat your injuries
- Lost wages while you recover from your injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Personal property damaged in the fall
If you were injured in a slip and fall on someone else’s property in Houston, Texas, contact a knowledgeable slip and fall accident lawyer for legal advice and assistance. A lawyer can explain your legal rights and options and the process of filing a claim.
Contact the Houston Slip and Fall Accident Lawyers at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers For Help
For more information, contact the Houston slip and fall accident law firm of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers by calling (713) 500-5000.
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Houston, TX 77098
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