Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer in Nevada
Slip and fall accidents can result in long term, or even permanent injuries that cause pain and suffering, and can result in lost time from work and mounting medical bills. While some injuries are simply due to human error, many slip and fall accidents are the result of the negligence of a property owner or government entity who is responsible for maintaining sidewalks, entryways and other common areas. Dangerous conditions that may indicate a valid premises liability case include:
- Damaged sidewalks, driveways, parking areas, or paths including areas that have shifted, become broken or even have potholes.
- Poorly maintained or obstructed stairways, missing or broken handrails, and stairways without slip-resistant coverings.
- Poorly lit walkways.
- Snow or ice covered sidewalks.
- Unmarked danger zones.
- Safety code violations.
Proving Premises Liability
Slip and fall accident cases generally fall under the category of premises liability in Nevada. In order to prove negligence in a premises liability case, victims must be able to establish a few crucial elements.
Defendant Responsibility
While property owners are responsible for maintaining the safety of their land or buildings, ownership is not necessarily required to achieve a successful claim. In some circumstances, managers and others who are in control of the premises can be held accountable for damages as well.
No Trespassing
In most cases, individuals who are trespassing are not covered under premises liability law. Wandering children, however, are typically an exception to this rule. In most other situations, the plaintiff must be either an invitee with access to areas open to the general public or a licensee with permission to access specific areas.
Failure to Maintain a Safe Environment
The most crucial step in slip and fall cases is generally being able to prove that the property owner or other responsible party was negligent in providing a safe environment. Sufficient grounds for compensation include things like safety code violations, inadequate maintenance, failure to warn, insufficient lighting, or failure to repair.
Additional Legal Options May Be Available
In many slip and fall cases, multiple factors play a role in the cause of the accident at hand. In these situations, a third party claim can sometimes be pursued. When a handrail malfunctions, a guardrail fails, or a contractor leaves a walkway obstructed, for instance, that party may be partially liable for your injuries as well. Our firm is dedicated to performing a thorough investigation of the events surrounding your slip and fall accident to ensure that all responsible parties are held liable.
Because the elements surrounding a successful premises liability case can be complicated, you need a hands-on personal injury lawyer who is dedicated to your particular case to evaluate the circumstances in your situation and ensure you receive the compensation you are due. Contact Raji Rai-Nielsen today to receive a FREE, no obligation case evaluation.