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Horry County Slip and Fall Attorneys

Serving Clients in Horry County, Myrtle Beach, & All of South Carolina

Slip and falls can be tragic, affecting people of all ages, but the injuries to older individuals may be particularly severe, including the risk of death. There are many slip and fall cases that remain unfiled. Those whose injuries were received due to the property owner’s negligence often fail to take the necessary steps to be properly compensated for their pain and suffering. In order to obtain the compensation to which you may be entitled, there are certain important procedures to be taken after a fall.

If you've been involved in a slip and fall, contact a lawyer that you can trust. Call Jeff Johnson, Attorney at Law, LLC today at (843) 202-4776 for a free consultation.

Slip and Fall Cases and Premises Liability

Falls are a leading cause of injury, especially among older adults, both inside and outside. Working with a slip and fall lawyer who specializes in these cases can significantly impact the settlement you receive and the care you get throughout the process.

Slip and fall accidents can be devastating, regardless of fault. Experienced attorneys handle a wide range of cases, from incidents in stores to other locations. Each case varies, but over three million older individuals are treated annually for fall-related injuries, with 95% of hip fractures affecting those age 65 and older.

What are Slip and Fall Accidents?

Slip and fall cases are made upon the general idea of personal injury and, therefore, negligence. The negligence of the object store owner, or resident has failed to provide a safe environment for those who fall victim to a slip and fall situation. As a customer or guest, you should not have any reason to be afraid of your safety while working with a business.

Commonly, accidents occur when an employee has failed to clean up or thoroughly dry the recent liquid that has been left behind.

Common Causes of Slip and Falls

  • Wet floors
  • Loose floor mats
  • Torn carpet
  • Poor lighting
  • Missing or uneven steps
  • Crumbling steps
  • Icy sidewalks or driveways
  • Clutter or other obstacles in the walkway

And these are only some of the ways slip and fall cases can occur. An unexpected fall can break bones or cause head and spinal injuries. Here are ten of the most commonly reported injuries that were related to slip and fall cases:

  • Broken bones
  • Cut/Lacerations
  • Fractures
  • No Fracture Injuries
  • Neck injury/Neck Sprain
  • Radiculopathy
  • Shoulder injury/Shoulder Sprain
  • Thoracic spine injury/Thoracic Sprain
  • Arm injury
  • Back injuries
  • Hematoma
  • Herniated disc Injury
  • Illness
  • Leg injury
  • Lower back injury/Sprain
  • Upper back injury/Upper back Sprain
  • Whiplash Headache
  • Lead Poisoning

Is the injury you suffered not on this list? Not to worry, there are many injuries that were not included here but may have received compensation from slip and fall accident cases won for other injuries.

The Importance of Evidence in Slip and Fall Cases

When you suffer an injury in a slip and fall accident, gathering strong evidence is critical for proving negligence and securing compensation. Without sufficient evidence, it can be challenging to hold the property owner accountable. Here's why evidence matters:

  • Photos of the Scene: Take pictures of the location where the fall occurred. This includes the hazard, such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting. These images can be crucial in demonstrating the dangerous conditions.
  • Witness Statements: If there were witnesses to the incident, their testimony can help support your version of events. Eyewitness accounts can confirm that the hazard was present and the property owner was negligent in addressing it.
  • Medical Records: These records provide documentation of the injuries sustained from the fall. They are essential in proving the severity of your injuries and linking them directly to the accident.
  • Incident Reports: If the fall occurred at a business or public location, an incident report should be filed immediately. This document outlines the details of the accident and is useful for building your case.

Taking immediate action to preserve evidence after an accident is vital. The sooner you gather these materials, the stronger your case will be.

How Insurance Companies Handle Slip and Fall Claims

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, even in valid slip and fall cases. Their goal is to protect the interests of the property owner and reduce their financial responsibility. Here's how they may approach your claim:

  • Denying Responsibility: Insurance companies might argue that the property owner wasn't negligent or that the injury wasn’t severe enough to warrant compensation.
  • Offering Low Settlements: Insurers may offer quick but low settlement amounts in hopes that you’ll accept before fully understanding the extent of your injuries or rights.
  • Delaying Payments: Some insurance companies use delay tactics to make claimants give up or settle for less than they deserve.

A skilled lawyer can help negotiate with insurance companies, ensuring they don’t take advantage of you. Your attorney will fight for a fair settlement based on the true value of your claim.

Time Limits for Filing Slip and Fall Claims (Statute of Limitations)

In South Carolina, there is a time limit for filing slip and fall claims. This time limit is called the statute of limitations and typically allows three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.

  • Consequences of Missing the Deadline: If you miss the filing deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation altogether. The court is unlikely to hear your case after the statute of limitations has expired.
  • Why Act Quickly: It’s essential to act as soon as possible to ensure you meet the deadline. The sooner you start gathering evidence, the better chance you have of securing the compensation you deserve.

Taking prompt action after a slip and fall accident is crucial for protecting your legal rights and increasing your chances of a successful outcome. Don’t delay—contact an attorney as soon as possible to begin the process.

Injured in a slip and fall or facing a wrongful death claim? Contact Jeff Johnson, Attorney at Law, LLC at (843) 202-4776 for a free consultation. We fight for your rights!

How Can Slip and Fall Cases be Prevented?

Most slip and fall situations may have been avoided if the property owner had simply taken more time to consider the environment in which his or her business operated. Unfortunately, in some cases, slip and fall accidents lead to tragic consequences.

Slip and fall situations will never stop occurring unless we are vigilant against this type of oversight in the workplace and public spaces. If a property owner’s negligence has caused an accident that led to serious injury or even wrongful death, it’s crucial to take legal action.

If you or a loved one were recently hurt due to a slip and fall situation that could have been avoided by a vigilant business owner, we are here to help. A slip and fall attorney at a firm dedicated to personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits can provide the legal counsel and representation needed during this difficult time. We are committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.

We strive to provide nothing less than our absolute best efforts in the defense of the criminally accused at Schwartz Law Firm. Whether you work with our firm or not, we are willing to tailor our answers to the questions or concerns that you may have.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • What should I do immediately after a slip and fall accident?
    After a slip and fall accident, you should seek medical attention immediately, even if the injury seems minor. It's also important to report the incident to the property owner or manager and gather evidence, such as photos of the scene and witness information.
  • Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t sure what caused the fall?
    Yes, it’s still possible to file a claim. An experienced slip and fall attorney can investigate the incident, identify the cause, and gather the necessary evidence to support your case.
  • How do I know if I have a strong case for a slip and fall lawsuit?
    A strong case is usually built on proof that the property owner was negligent in maintaining safe conditions. If you can show that the property owner knew about a hazardous condition or should have known, you may have a valid claim.
  • What types of injuries are typically covered in slip and fall cases?
    Common injuries from slip and fall accidents include broken bones, sprains, head trauma, spinal injuries, and soft tissue damage. Any injury that results from the fall can potentially be included in your claim.
  • How long does a slip and fall case take to resolve?
    The duration of a slip and fall case depends on the complexity of the situation and the parties involved. Some cases may be resolved in a few months, while others could take longer if negotiations or litigation are necessary.
  • Can I still file a claim if the property owner denies responsibility?
    Yes, even if the property owner denies responsibility, you can still file a claim. An experienced lawyer can help gather evidence, witness testimony, and expert opinions to support your case and challenge the denial.
  • What compensation can I receive for my slip and fall injury?
    Compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. An attorney can help determine what you’re entitled to based on the specifics of your case.

If you've been involved in a slip and fall, contact a lawyer that you can trust. Call Jeff Johnson, Attorney at Law, LLC today at (843) 202-4776 for a free consultation.

Why Work With Jeff?

  • Fights for Your Best Interests
  • 24+ Years Experience
  • Free Consultation



 


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