Slip and Fall Law
A slip and fall is an accident that often occurs when a person walks in a public place and suddenly slips on a wet surface, trips on an obstacle in their path, or falls downstairs. Slips, trips, and falls can also happen at home or work.
In Michigan, property owners are responsible for ensuring that their premises are safe for visitors and guests. If someone is injured due to a hazardous condition on the property – such as a spill, broken stair, or uneven sidewalk – the owner may be liable for damages.
Damages awarded in a slip and fall lawsuit can be significant. Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded.
Maximum Damages for Slip and Fall Claims
There is no definitive answer to the maximum amount of damages awarded in a slip and fall case. This will depend on the facts of each patient, including the severity of the injuries sustained and whether or not negligence was involved.
However, the maximum amount awarded for non-economic damages (e.g., pain and suffering) is $500,000. There is no limit on economic damages (e.g., medical bills), but these are typically much lower than non-economic damages.
Statute of Limitations for Slip and Fall Cases
The statute of limitations for slip and fall cases in Michigan is three years. This means that you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, if the statute has lapsed, you will no longer be able to seek damages.
How to Claim for Slip and Fall Damages
If you have been injured in a slip and fall, it is essential to take immediate action to preserve your legal rights. First, you should seek medical attention for your injuries. Then, you should contact a premises liability lawyer who can help you investigate the accident and build a strong compensation case.
The victim must prove that the property owner was negligent to win a slip and fall case. Negligence is the failure to take reasonable care to prevent foreseeable harm. To prove negligence, the victim must show that:
- The property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition;
- The property owner failed to fix the hazard or warn visitors of the danger; and
- The victim was injured as a result of the hazardous condition.
It is important to note that simply because someone is injured on another person’s property does not mean that the property owner is automatically liable. There must be evidence that the property owner was aware of the hazard and did nothing to remedy it.
What to Do When You Are Charged with Slip and Fall
If you are charged with slip and fall, it is essential to consult with an experienced premises liability lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and defend your rights as the premises owner.
Whether you are the victim or the defendant, it is essential to understand Michigan’s slip and fall laws. An experienced lawyer from Fran Murphy Law can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.