Inclement weather can certainly make a slip and fall more likely, but does that affect your personal injury case if you were the one who got hurt? Does the owner of the property where you were injured avoid responsibility simply because it was raining that day? They shouldn’t, but they might try to use that bad weather to complicate your claim. This is why having an experienced Corpus Christi, Texas slip & fall lawyer on your side can be so beneficial.
What Hazards Can Bad Weather Create?
Bad weather can create hazards or make existing hazards more dangerous. Common causes of slip and fall accidents include:
- Slippery walkways
- Wet floors
- Stairwells with damaged or missing handrails
- Uneven pavement
- Poor lighting
- Exposes electrical wiring
- Obstacles on walkways
Any of these can cause a serious injury.
Can Weather Cancel Out a Property Owner’s Negligence?
A property owner can try to argue that bad weather was the cause of an accident, but they should still be held responsible for a hazard that causes someone harm. Let’s say that the rain is coming down hard and a leak causes a puddle to form in one of the aisles of a supermarket. The people running that supermarket still need to take care of that leak and do the best that they can to stop people from getting hurt. They need to put up a wet floor sign or clean up the puddle created by it. Better yet, the property owner should have had the leaking roof fixed before a storm came through.
If a property owner knew about a potential hazard and did not take steps to fix it, they cannot just blame the weather. Some will try to though, which is why hiring a lawyer who can build a compelling case is a wise idea.
What Should My Compensation From a Slip and Fall Case Actually Cover?
Your compensation for a slip and fall injury should not just reimburse you for the economic costs of your accident. A lawyer from our firm will help you fight for a fair and reasonable offer that helps make up for any trauma or mental anguish caused by your accident. A fair and reasonable offer should compensate you for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of enjoyment
- Loss of earning potential
- Pain from disability or disfigurement
- Any other pain and suffering experienced
How Long Do I Have to Sue for Damages After a Slip and Fall?
Texas gives you two years to pursue damages in a personal injury suit. So you would have to file your suit within two years of the day that you fell and were injured. Miss this deadline and you will be unable to pursue compensation.
Contact Our Attorneys
When you are ready to pursue damages, contact Sahadi Legal Group. We can schedule a free consultation and tell you more about the potential value of your case and how we can be of assistance.
