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Slip and fall accidents can occur in the blink of an eye, yet their consequences can linger for months or even years. These incidents often result in injuries ranging from minor bruises to severe fractures, spinal damage, or traumatic brain injuries. Beyond the physical pain, victims frequently endure emotional distress, such as anxiety or fear of re-injury, and financial burdens due to mounting medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing treatment costs.
In Louisiana, property owners and businesses are legally required to maintain their premises in a condition that ensures the safety of visitors. This duty of care extends to promptly addressing hazards such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and other dangerous conditions that could lead to an accident. When they fail in this responsibility and someone is injured as a result, the law provides a path for victims to seek compensation for their losses.
At Brandt & Sherman, we understand the challenges that follow a slip and fall accident. Our experienced slip and fall attorneys in New Orleans are committed to holding negligent property owners accountable and securing the financial recovery you need to move forward. Whether your accident occurred at a grocery store, apartment complex, workplace, or private property, we are here to protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Understanding Slip & Fall Cases in Louisiana
A slip and fall accident is categorized as a type of premises liability case. Louisiana law requires property owners and occupiers to exercise reasonable care in keeping their premises safe for visitors. Under Louisiana Civil Code, property owners are liable for injuries caused by unsafe conditions on their property if:
- They knew or should have known about the condition.
- The condition presented an unreasonable risk of harm.
- They failed to take reasonable steps to remedy or warn of the condition.
Common Causes of Slip & Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents often occur due to:
- Wet or slippery floors without warning signs.
- Uneven sidewalks or pavement.
- Poor lighting in walkways or stairwells.
- Torn carpeting or loose tiles.
- Cluttered walkways or debris.
- Failure to remove ice, snow, or rainwater in entryways.
While these hazards may seem minor, they can lead to severe injuries such as broken bones, spinal injuries, head trauma, or soft tissue damage.
What Should You Do After a Slip & Fall Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, taking the right steps can strengthen your claim:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, getting medical care is essential to document the extent of harm caused.
- Report the Incident: Notify the property owner or manager immediately and ask for a written incident report.
- Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the hazardous condition, including any contributing factors such as wet floors or broken steps.
- Collect Witness Information: If anyone saw the accident, obtain their contact information for future statements.
- Avoid Giving Statements: Refrain from discussing fault or the extent of your injuries with the property owner or their insurance company before consulting an attorney.
How Can a Lawyer for Slip and Fall Accidents Help?
Pursuing a slip and fall claim can be challenging. Insurance companies and property owners often deny liability, claiming the hazard was not dangerous or that you were partially responsible for the fall. As your legal advocates, the slip and fall attorneys at Brandt & Sherman will:
- Investigate the Accident: We will gather evidence, review surveillance footage, and consult with experts to establish liability.
- Determine Property Owner Negligence: We’ll prove the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition but failed to take corrective action.
- Calculate Damages: Our team will assess all your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: We have extensive experience dealing with insurers and will fight to secure a fair settlement.
- Take Your Case to Court: If negotiations fail, we are fully prepared to represent you in court to achieve the best possible outcome.
What Compensation is Available in Slip & Fall Cases?
Under Louisiana law, slip and fall victims may recover damages for:
- Medical Expenses: Current and future medical bills for treatment, rehabilitation, and therapy.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for missed work and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Monetary relief for physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for diminished quality of life due to long-term injuries.
In cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded to penalize the at-fault party.
How is Fault Determined in Louisiana Slip & Fall Cases?
Louisiana follows a pure comparative fault system, which means your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident. For example, if a court determines you were 20% responsible for the fall (e.g., by wearing inappropriate footwear), your compensation will be reduced by 20%.
An experienced slip and fall lawyer can help minimize allegations of comparative fault to maximize your recovery.
Why Choose Brandt & Sherman as Your Slip & Fall Attorneys?
At Brandt & Sherman, we understand the stress and uncertainty you may feel after a slip and fall accident. Our team brings decades of experience handling premises liability cases in New Orleans and throughout Louisiana. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Local Expertise: We are deeply familiar with Louisiana’s laws and have successfully represented countless clients in slip and fall cases.
- Client-Focused Approach: We prioritize your well-being and keep you informed every step of the way.
- Proven Results: Our attorneys have a track record of securing favorable settlements and verdicts for injured clients.
- No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Contact a New Orleans Lawyer for Slip and Fall Accidents Today
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, don’t wait to take action. Louisiana’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases gives you one year from the date of the accident to file a claim. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to compensation.
Let the skilled attorneys at Brandt & Sherman fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us today at (337) 800-4000 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.
Your recovery is our priority. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing.
