If you or a loved one sustained a severe injury on someone else’s property, it is essential that you understand premises liability law and how it may apply to your case. A dedicated Stillwater slip and fall accident attorney at BDIW Law is prepared to explain all you need to know about premises liability law, help you explore your options, and fight for your right to compensation.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents in Stillwater
Slip and fall accidents can happen for several reasons. Figuring out the cause of your injuries is crucial if you hope to hold the liable party accountable for their negligent actions. Your slip and fall accident attorney in Stillwater, OK, will carefully evaluate the evidence to determine who should be sued for your damages.
Some of the top ways in which slip and fall injuries occur include:
- Wet floors
- Snow and ice
- Scaffold accidents
- Falls from elevated heights
- Ladder accidents
- Stair accidents
- Inadequate lighting
- Negligent security
- Cracked pavement
- Unsecured carpeting
- Loose floorboards
These are only a few examples of how slip and fall accidents can happen. If your injuries were caused another way, you may still have grounds for legal action. As long as your slip and fall accident lawyer in Stillwater can show that another party’s negligence contributed to the injuries you sustained, you can fight to bring them to justice.
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SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYProperty Owners’ Duty to Protect
Per premises liability law, property owners have a duty to protect, within reason, guests of their property. “Guests” does not include trespassers. To protect within reason means the property owner takes reasonable measures to maintain the premises and keep them free of hazards.
If a hazard does exist, but if the property owner does not have the resources to remedy said hazard right away, they are required to provide sufficient warning and notice to visitors. If a property owner fails to uphold their responsibility, and if someone should sustain an injury because of the breach, the courts may hold the owner accountable for the victim’s financial losses.
However, property owners may be able to avoid blame by making hazardous conditions open and obvious. In that case, the injury victim would be partially responsible for any injuries they suffered due to open and obvious hazards. Additionally, anyone trespassing or committing a crime on the property owner’s premises may find it difficult or impossible to recover compensation for their losses.
Statute of Limitations of Premises Liability Claims
The statute of limitations refers to the time limit you have to file a person’s injury claim with the civil court system. Though specific timelines vary depending on the type of case you wish to bring and against whom, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of the incident or the date the injured party discovered their injuries. (The latter stipulation may apply in cases involving brain injuries, whiplash, or other latent injuries.)
If you fail to file within the two-year timeframe, you will forfeit your right to compensation regardless of how strong your case is.
Comparative Negligence in Slip and Fall Cases
It is common for defendants in premises liability cases to argue that the plaintiff shares some of the blame. Defendants do this to try to reduce their financial liability. If successful, the injured party’s award will be reduced by the percentage of blame assigned to them. For instance, if the deciding parties determine the plaintiff shares 25% fault, they will only receive 75% of the final settlement, thanks to comparative negligence laws.
In some states, a plaintiff may be barred from recovery if they assume even 1% of the fault. However, Oklahoma only bars a victim from recovery if they share more blame than the defendant.
A Stillwater Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer is Prepared to Help
If you sustained an injury in a slip and fall case in Oklahoma, do not risk losing part or all of your compensation. Contact BDIW Law to consult with an experienced Stillwater slip and fall accident attorney and to learn more about how you can bolster your case to recover the amount you need and deserve.
Preventing Slip and Fall Accidents: A Proactive Approach in Stillwater
Proactive Measures to Prevent Slip and Fall Accidents in Stillwater
In Stillwater, Oklahoma, slip and fall accidents are not just common occurrences; they are often preventable tragedies. Understanding the causes and implementing preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of these accidents, ensuring a safer environment for everyone.
Identifying Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents in Stillwater can occur due to various reasons, including wet floors, snow and ice, inadequate lighting, and unsecured carpeting. Property owners and managers must be vigilant in identifying these hazards and taking prompt action to rectify them. Regular inspections and maintenance can go a long way in preventing accidents.
The Role of Property Owners in Ensuring Safety
Under premises liability law, property owners in Stillwater have a duty to keep their premises safe for visitors. This includes addressing hazards promptly and providing adequate warnings if immediate rectification is not possible. Failing to do so can result in legal liability if someone is injured due to their negligence.
Educating the Public on Slip and Fall Safety
Awareness is a powerful tool in preventing slip and fall accidents. Public education campaigns in Stillwater can inform residents about common hazards and safety tips, such as wearing appropriate footwear during icy conditions and being cautious in areas prone to wet floors.
Implementing Safety Protocols in High-Risk Areas
Certain areas in Stillwater, like shopping malls, hospitals, and public buildings, are more prone to slip and fall accidents. Implementing strict safety protocols, such as regular floor cleaning and immediate addressing of spillages, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents in these high-traffic areas.
The Importance of Timely Reporting and Response
Encouraging timely reporting of potential hazards is crucial. In Stillwater, businesses and public facilities should have clear procedures for visitors to report unsafe conditions. Quick response to these reports is equally important to prevent accidents.
Legal Recourse for Slip and Fall Victims
Despite preventive measures, accidents can still occur. Victims of slip and fall accidents in Stillwater have the right to seek legal recourse if their injuries result from someone else’s negligence. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help victims understand their rights and the potential for compensation.
Case Studies: Preventing Slip and Fall Accidents in Stillwater
Consider these hypothetical scenarios to understand the application of these strategies:
- A Grocery Store Slip and Fall Incident: Regular floor inspections and prompt clean-up of spills prevented a potential slip and fall accident, showcasing proactive safety measures.
- A Winter Slip and Fall Accident Avoided: A local business in Stillwater implemented effective snow and ice removal strategies, significantly reducing the risk of slip and fall accidents during winter months.
Conclusion
Preventing slip and fall accidents in Stillwater requires a combination of vigilance, education, and proactive safety measures. Property owners, businesses, and the public must work together to create a safer environment. For those affected by slip and fall accidents, understanding their legal rights and options is crucial for seeking justice and compensation.
