Slip and falls are responsible for around eight million hospital emergency room visits each year according to a report issued by the National Floor Safety Institute. While many falls only result in minor injuries, some can lead to broken bones and head injuries. When serious injuries result from a slip and fall, the victim may need to meet with a lawyer in Brainerd, MN. Doing so does not necessarily mean they have to pursue a claim, it simply affords them the opportunity to learn about their legal options and gain valuable advice.
A slip and fall injury is sometimes the fault of a property owner or an employee of the owner. There are a few areas an injured victim will need to prove with the help of their lawyer.
- The property owner or one of their employees caused the condition.
- The property owner or their employee was aware of the dangerous condition and did nothing to remedy it.
- The dangerous condition was in place so long that any reasonable property owner or employee should have discovered it.
Not only must an injured person prove the property owner was negligent, but they must also prove this negligence directly led to the slip and fall that resulted in measurable damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
A lawyer will help a victim prove each area of negligence and work to make sure the property owner’s insurance company pays a fair settlement. If the property owner and their insurance company refuse to settle fairly, the lawyer can file a lawsuit on behalf of their client. While the vast majority of slip and fall injury claims are settled outside of court, lawsuits cannot always be avoided.
Slip and fall injuries can leave behind lasting physical issues that can be difficult to resolve. If you have been injured, contact a lawyer in Brainerd, MN. If you would like to schedule your consultation appointment, contact the law office of Borden, Steinbauer, Krueger and Knudson, P.A. Allow them to help you understand your rights and the legal options you have for pursuing your claim.