Not every slip and fall is someone else’s fault. At least, that is how insurance companies view the situation. That is why victims should hire a Slip And Fall Accident Lawyer in Bellingham WA.
The Cause Of The Accident
Victims need to know exactly what caused them to fall. For example, a victim falls down a flight of stairs and breaks their hip. What led to the fall? Did the victim’s foot get caught in torn carpeting? Or, was there water on the steps?
The property owner’s insurer will want to know specifically what happened. This is because liability depends on the answers to the questions. The law requires victims to look out for their own safety. Some hazards are visible and should be avoided.
Getting the Liable Party To Pay
The Slip And Fall Accident Lawyer in Bellingham WA must prove one of three scenarios for the property owner to be liable. First, it must be proven that the owner or an employee caused the hazardous condition. Likewise, the lawyer may prove that the owner knew about the danger and did nothing about it.
Finally, it can be proven that the owner knew about the hazard because a “reasonable” person would have known and made repairs.
What Does “Reasonable” Mean?
“Reasonable” is a word in the law that offers some protection to property owners. It gives them the opportunity to show they inspect the property on a regular basis. The owner’s biggest defence is that they cannot be everywhere at all times.
That is why many grocery stores have periodic floor checks during the day. They document when the floor checks occur and whether there were any hazards. Therefore, victims can argue liability if someone slips and falls five minutes after a floor check.
Proving Damages
Once liability is proven, damages must be documented. The lawyer gathers payroll records to show the client lost income. Further, medical records show the extent of the victim’s injuries.
The lawyer prepares a settlement demand and forwards it to the insurance company. Hopefully, the insurer negotiates in good faith to avoid a trial. For more information, find a lawyer and Browse the website .
