A slip and fall claim in North Carolina is a type of personal injury lawsuit that holds property or business owners responsible for failing to maintain safe premises for visitors. Not every slip and fall accident leads to such lawsuits, but when they do, you may be entitled to seek compensation.
At RHD Legal, our premises liability and personal injury lawyers in Raleigh will thoroughly investigate your case to help you secure full and fair compensation. Property owners are obligated to keep their premises safe, and when they neglect this duty, we hold them accountable. Contact us at (919) 246-4001 to schedule a free consultation.
What Constitutes Slip and Fall Cases in North Carolina?
A slip and fall case arises when a visitor is injured due to a dangerous condition on the property. While it often involves slipping and falling, it can include other incidents such as:
- Tripping over a hidden obstacle
- Sliding on an icy parking lot or sidewalk
- Falling into a concealed sinkhole
- Falling through a weak floor or step
To have a valid slip and fall case, you must prove the following elements:
- Duty of Care: The property owner or manager has a duty to inspect the premises and address any hazardous conditions. This duty varies based on the type of property and the nature of the visitor (e.g., invitees like shoppers or licensees like friends and family).
- Hazardous Condition: A dangerous condition existed on the property.
- Knowledge: The property owner or manager knew or should have known about the hazardous condition.
- Damages: The visitor was allowed on the property and suffered an injury due to the hazardous condition. Damages can include economic losses (e.g., wage losses and medical bills) and non-economic losses (e.g., pain and suffering).
These elements might seem straightforward, but they can be complex. Contact our office today to speak with our personal injury lawyers – (919) 246-4001.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents in North Carolina
To seek compensation for a slip and fall injury, an unsafe or hazardous condition must have existed. Common causes include:
- Wet floors or bad flooring
- Poorly lit areas or unmarked step-offs
- Poorly maintained sidewalks
- Unsafe stairs, broken or missing handrails
- Poorly operating escalators or elevators
- Obstructions in foot traffic paths
- Mishandled or mislabeled liquids, food, or chemicals
- Lack of warning or hazard signs
These are just examples. Slip and fall accidents can occur in many different ways.
Common Slip and Fall Injuries in Raleigh
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), millions of slip and fall accidents occur annually, resulting in thousands of deaths and numerous serious injuries. The severity of the injury depends on various factors such as the accident itself, the location, the environment, the victim’s activity, age, health, and pre-existing conditions. Injuries range from bruises to fatalities and may include:
- Broken bones or fractures
- Bruises, sprains, strains, or soft tissue damage
- Bone or joint dislocation
- Ruptured or herniated discs
- Cuts and lacerations
- Neck and back injuries
- Head injuries
Pre-existing health conditions can impact the severity of injuries. Elderly and frail individuals may suffer hip injuries that statistically lead to premature death. Younger victims may face significant setbacks that impair their ability to work or enjoy activities.
Three Reasons to Hire a Slip and Fall Lawyer in North Carolina
Slip and fall cases can be challenging because fault is not always clear. Here are three reasons to hire a personal injury lawyer:
- Investigation: A personal injury lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident to establish fault. This includes assessing the accident location, reviewing video footage, speaking to witnesses, and retaining experts.
- Proving Damages: After the investigation, your lawyer will connect the cause of the accident to your injuries and losses, providing documentation to support your claim.
- Representation: Your lawyer will handle all aspects of the case, including dealing with other parties, managing deadlines, and determining the value of your case. This allows you to focus on your recovery.
Contact a Slip and Fall Personal Injury Lawyer in Raleigh Today
At RHD Legal, our slip and fall accident attorney in North Carolina has the resources and skills to represent you effectively. Upholding your rights and securing fair compensation is our priority. To determine if you have a viable slip and fall case or to learn more about your legal options, contact us at (919) 246-4001 or fill out an online form to schedule a free consultation.
