Can You Sue for a Slip and Fall Injury in Alabama?

Have you or a loved one experienced a slip and fall injury recently? If so, you might be wondering if you can sue for a slip and fall injury in Alabama.

Can You Sue for a Slip and Fall Injury in Alabama?

The short answer to this question is, in many cases, yes. Depending on the situation and context surrounding your accident, you can sue for a slip and fall injury in Alabama. For example, if you slip and fall on someone else’s property (including commercial property), you are likely entitled to compensation.

Who Is Liable for a Slip and Fall Accident?

Business or property owners in Alabama can be held liable for slip and fall accidents. However, to win your case (and be compensated), you must prove that the accident occurred as a result of their negligence.

How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit?

The statute of limitations for slip and fall accidents — and other personal injury claims — in Alabama is two years. Keep in mind, though, that the longer you wait, the harder it is to prove the other party’s negligence — and that you didn’t contribute to your injuries — and win your case.

What Should You Do After a Slip and Fall Accident?

If you’ve recently experienced a slip and fall accident, you might be wondering what to do next.

It’s tempting to just grit your teeth, push through the pain, and go about your business. Doing so could impede your ability to be fairly compensated for your injuries, though.

Here are some essential steps to take after your accident:

Seek Medical Attention

See a doctor or go to the emergency room as soon as possible after your accident. Even if you haven’t experienced something severe like a head injury or broken bones, you should still seek medical attention. Doing so will help you begin creating a paper trail, which will come in handy when building your case.

Assess the Scene

After your fall, assess the scene. Was there anything that contributed to your slip and fall, such as water on the floor (without any signs indicating the floor was wet)? You may want to ask to see security footage of the incident to help you identify potential causes.

Take Pictures and Videos

Pictures and videos of the scene and of your injuries can also help you build evidence for your case. Err on the side of collecting too many photos and videos — your lawyer can always help you narrow them down later.

Contact Witnesses

When you’ve been involved in a slip and fall accident, it’s easy to misinterpret or forget critical details. That’s why identifying witnesses, collecting their contact information, and following up with them is so important. Witness testimony can help to corroborate your story and increase your chances of winning your case.

Make an Official Report

A business might ask you to make an official report detailing your accident and your injuries. This report can work in your favor later, especially if the company tries to claim that you didn’t take your injuries seriously or didn’t seem badly hurt at the time.

Write Everything Down

In addition to making an official report, it’s a good idea to write down as much about the incident as you can remember. Keep a detailed record of your injuries, your pain level, your recovery, and other details. These notes will help your lawyer build a strong case for you.

Reach Out to an Attorney

Get in touch with a personal injury lawyer right away. They will help you collect evidence, gather witness statements, and navigate the process of filing a lawsuit. They will also help you ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines (which could prevent you from moving forward with your case and being compensated).

What to Look for in a Personal Injury Lawyer

The sooner you get in touch with a personal injury lawyer after a slip and fall accident, the better. The following tips can help you ensure you’ve chosen the best attorney for the job:

Consider Qualifications and Specialties

Look into each lawyer to learn about their educational background and how long they’ve been practicing. It’s best to work with a lawyer who specializes in personal injury cases, too — they will be best equipped to help you navigate your situation.

Make Sure They’re in Good Standing

Check with the Alabama State Bar to ensure the lawyer you’re considering is in good standing. They make it easy for you to find legal help in your area.

Ask About Fees and Fee Structures

Always ask what each lawyer charges and how they charge.

Rather than getting paid hourly, many personal injury lawyers get paid on a contingency basis. That means they don’t get paid unless you win your case. They take a percentage (usually around 33%) of your settlement in exchange for their services.

Read Reviews

Check out reviews and testimonials from past clients to see if the lawyer has a good reputation. If they don’t have any positive reviews available online, that could be a sign that they’re inexperienced and not the right fit for your case.

Schedule a Consultation

Always schedule a consultation to get to know a potential attorney and determine whether or not you will work well with them. Whether you meet in person or via video, a consultation gives you a chance to ask some basic questions before you make a final commitment.

Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

You might be entitled to compensation if you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident. Get in touch with a personal injury lawyer today to evaluate your case and create a plan of action.

Our Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana team is here to assist you and help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today through our online form or call us at (251) 444-7000.