Slipped and fell on a property other than your own in Kansas City? You are scared, hurt, or confused. You are not the only one. The incident can change your life in a moment. Medical bills pile up. You lose income. You could even suffer prolonged misery. If this has happened to you, a skilled Kansas City Slip And Fall Accident Lawyer can help. You deserve compensation. You should not be punished for someone’s mistake. What you need to know is on this page. It will help guide you in deciding if you have a case and how to go about it.
What Constitutes a Slip and Fall Accident?
Slip and fall is where you slip and fall due to the failure of an owner of property to make his or her property safe. The majority of these accidents involve:
- Wet floors that are poorly marked
- Loose rugs or mats on the floor
- Rotting stairs or steps
- Poor lighting in corridors or passageways
- Uncleared snow or ice on walkways
- Cluttered corridors or aisles
Not every fall entitles you to a claim. You must show the owner was negligent. You must show negligence caused your injuries.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Helps You
You are asking yourself why you need a lawyer. Here are some reasons:
- Determine if you have a case: A lawyer reviews the circumstances to determine whether the owner was negligent.
- Gather evidence: They document photos, take statements, and interview witnesses.
- Deal with insurance companies: Insurers will pay out as little as possible. Your attorney does the negotiating for you so that you don’t have to.
- Receive fair compensation: You should be compensated for hospital bills, lost income, and pain.
- Take your case to court if needed: Your attorney takes your case to court.
Injuries Most Likely to Happen with a Slip and Fall
Slip and fall is a dangerous form of accident. Some injuries will heal quickly, but others can last years. These are among the most common problems after a fall:
- Broken bones
- Twisted or torn ligaments
- Head injuries or concussion
- Back or neck injuries
- Bruises and cuts
If you do fall, get medical help immediately. Some forms of injury are not readily visible.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall
Act quickly if you’ve been injured. These steps can assist you and your claim:
- Get medical help: Even if you’re sure you’re fine, visit a doctor. Medical records establish your injury.
- Report to the owner or manager: Inform them what happened to you.
- Snap a photo: Take a photo of where you slipped and fell and what made you slip.
- Get names: Get phone numbers from witnesses.
- Keep everything documented: Keep bills, receipts, and letters.
- Don’t provide statements: Don’t talk to the other guy’s insurance without a lawyer.
- Call a lawyer: The sooner, the better.
Why Use a Kansas City Personal Injury Attorney?
Local lawyers are familiar with Kansas City law and courts. They understand how judges and jurors think here. They understand how the insurance companies behave. Using a local lawyer may give you a more potent case.
A good lawyer will:
- Listen to your tale
- Tell you about your rights in plain language
- Keep you informed at each turn
- Battling to get you the best money possible
You are worth it and you deserve someone who cares and who will fight for you.
How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
Most people are worried about money. Most slip and fall lawyers operate on a contingency fee. Which means:
- You pay nothing out-of-pocket.
- The lawyer is only compensated if you win.
- The fee comes out of the award or settlement, not your pocket.
It allows you to obtain help in the legal process without extra worry.
How Long Do You Have to Sue?
You generally have five years to sue the individual on whom you slipped and fell in Missouri. This is called the statute of limitations. If you don’t rise off the couch, you might lose your right to be paid. It is preferable to act quickly. Present evidence and witness memories favor you.
What Is Your Case Worth?
Every case is different. How much you can recover depends on:
- How serious your injuries are
- The cost of your medical care
- Lost time from work
- Pain and discomfort
- Future medical requirements
Your lawyer will take all these factors into account when putting a value on your claim.
What if You Were Partially Responsible?
Others think they will not be able to get back money if they are partially at fault. Not in Missouri. The pure comparative fault is employed by the state. That is:
- You can get back money even if you are partially to blame.
- Your recovery is reduced because of your fault.
Example: If you are 20% at fault and you have $50,000 in damages, you can recover $40,000.
Kansas City Slip and Fall Laws You Need to Know
In order to win your case, you must prove:
- The owner knew, or should have known, about the hazard.
- They did not fix it or alert you.
- The hazard caused you to slip and fall.
- You were injured as a result.
Property owners owe a duty to make their property safe. When they fail to do so, they are liable.
How Long Does a Case Take
Some settle within a few months. Others do, if:
- The injury is severe.
- The insurance company contests the claim.
- The case is tried.
Your attorney will guide you through it.
How Settlements Work
Most slip and fall cases are settled. That is:
- You receive money in exchange for waiving your right to sue.
- You waive your right to sue in the future.
Settlements avoid costly lawsuits and long delays. But your lawyer will only offer a settlement if it makes sense.
Why Not to Wait
Time is not on your side after you have fallen and slipped. Delaying hurts your case. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. The insurance company can play delays for their advantage. If you were hurt from a Kansas City slip and fall, call for assistance right away.
Talk with a Kansas City Personal Injury Lawyer Today
You don’t have to do it alone. An experienced personal injury attorney in Kansas City can be your voice. They will represent you and work to obtain the compensation you need to heal and move on. Ready to get started? Call now and arrange a free consultation. You owe nothing if you do not win.
FAQs About Slip and Fall in Kansas City
1. If I tripped in a store and they say it was my fault?
You may still have a case. Missouri law allows for cases even if you were partially at fault. Your lawyer will examine the facts.
2. Can I sue when I fell on an icy spot in front of a store?
Yes. If the owner was aware of the ice and did not clear it, they may be liable.
3. What do I bring to my first meeting with an attorney?
Photos, hospital bills, physician reports, witness contact information, and any other details about your fall.
4. How long before I get a settlement?
Depends. Some take a few months. More complicated cases take more time.
5. Do I have to go to court?
Most of the settlements occur prior to trial. If you must appear in court, your attorney will prepare you and represent you.