Slip and fall accidents can happen unexpectedly and often result in serious injuries that may have long-term effects on your life. Whether they occur in a grocery store, on a sidewalk, or at a friend’s house, these accidents are more common than many realize, and they can lead to severe physical, emotional, and financial consequences. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we recognize the impact these accidents have on victims and their families. Our experienced slip and fall lawyers are here to help you navigate the legal complexities and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

What You Need to Know About Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents, often underestimated, can be surprisingly common and devastating in and around Fort Wayne, Indiana. A slip-and-fall accident can lead to severe injuries (including broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries) and long-lasting consequences. Such incidents impact not only the quality of life of victims but can also reduce their ability to work and provide for their families.

To put the scope of slip and fall accidents into perspective, recent statistics show a notable increase in these incidents. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, slip and fall accidents account for over one million hospital visits each year in the United States. With such a substantial impact, it’s evident that seeking legal assistance is not only beneficial but often necessary to deal with the economic consequences and recover.

If you find yourself in this situation, it’s common to ask “How does this happen to me?”, “Who is responsible for this?”. Well, these accidents occur when an individual loses their balance due to diverse factors, such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or other dangerous conditions. 

But sometimes these are more than just accidents, they are the result of the negligence of someone who didn’t get to ensure safety on their property.  If this is your case, chances are you´re entitled to receive economic compensation to recover from your injuries.

On the other hand, according to Indiana Code § 34-11, keep in mind you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Thus, if you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, it’s important to act quickly and seek legal assistance as soon as you can. 

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

The factors contributing to slip and fall accidents are diverse and often involve negligence or disregard for safety. From wet floors caused by spills to uneven surfaces and poor lighting in public spaces, negligence can result in accidents that lead to life-altering injuries.

As a victim, it’s important to know that property owners have a duty to maintain their premises in a safe condition and to warn visitors of any potential hazards. If a property owner fails to fulfill this duty, they may be held liable for any injuries that occur as a result. 

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident due to a property owner’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Our Indiana premises liability lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and successfully resolve your case.

Damages You Can Recover in Indiana

When it comes to slip and fall accidents, the potential damages extend beyond physical injuries. Pursuing legal action can result in the recovery of various forms of compensation, including:

  • Medical expenses accrued due to the accident
  • Lost wages from time taken off work
  • Pain and suffering endured during and after the accident; and
  • Compensation for emotional distress.

In some cases, punitive damages may also be applicable, aiming to punish the responsible party for their negligence and deter similar conduct in the future. According to Indiana Code § 34-51-3, punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the defendant acted with malice or reckless disregard for the safety of others.

What Kind of Injury Might You Have After a Slip & Fall Accident in Fort Wayne?

A slip and fall accident can result in various injuries, some of which may have a lasting impact on your ability to work and live your daily life. For those who work in physically demanding jobs, an injury such as a broken bone can cause significant disruptions both at work and at home.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common injuries from falls include:

  • Broken bones: Particularly dangerous for older adults, fractures are a common outcome of falls.
  • Paralysis: Falls contribute to around 22 percent of spinal cord injuries, which can lead to long-term or permanent disability.
  • Back and neck injuries: Chronic back pain often results from fall-related trauma.
  • Head injuries: Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
  • Wrongful death: Each year, approximately 25,000 people die from fall-related injuries.

Even accidents that seem minor at first can lead to hidden injuries, so it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately after a fall.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents in Fort Wayne, IN

Slip and fall accidents are more common than you might think, and the numbers in Fort Wayne and Indiana are concerning. In a recent three-year period, nearly 42,000 people in Indiana were hospitalized due to falls. Various hazards contribute to these accidents, including:

  • Construction sites
  • Snow and ice
  • Slippery surfaces without warning signs
  • Unsecured or misaligned floor mats
  • Defective seating
  • Lack of proper handrails
  • Design flaws in buildings or walkways
  • Poor lighting
  • Holes or uneven ground

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, our Fort Wayne attorneys have the experience and resources to determine whether negligence played a role. We’re committed to helping you hold the responsible parties accountable.

The Process of Filing a Slip and Fall Lawsuit in Fort Wayne

Filing a slip-and-fall lawsuit in Fort Wayne entails several steps you need to follow to increase the chances of a successful outcome. Although it may seem challenging at first, keep in mind that there are experienced local attorneys who specialize in guiding victims through each step of the process. 

If you slip and fell, hiring a lawyer ensures your rights are upheld and your case is pursued diligently by following these steps:

Step 1: Gathering Evidence

Evidence gathered is the foundation of a successful slip-and-fall case. Gathering evidence includes documenting the scene of the accident, collecting witness statements, requesting medical records, and obtaining any surveillance footage that may be available, among other tasks. 

During this stage, it’s important to ensure that no piece of evidence is overlooked, since evidence is crucial to build a strong case.

Step 2: Filing the Lawsuit

To file a lawsuit, the first step is to prepare the necessary paperwork, including a complaint and summons, and file them with the court. Legal experts have experience navigating this process and can initiate your case in a timely and effective manner. 

On the other hand, at this stage, it is also necessary to pay attention to filing deadlines and limitations and serve the defendant with proper legal notice.

Step 3: Discovery

During the discovery phase, both parties exchange information and evidence. This involves obtaining further evidence through means like interrogatories, depositions, and requests for the production of documents. This process sheds light on critical information that can strengthen your case and uncover any potential defenses the opposing party may present.

Step 4: Settlement or Trial

After discovery is complete, the case may be resolved through settlement or trial. Here, attorneys employ negotiation and mediation techniques to achieve a favorable settlement. 

However, if an agreement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to go to trial and represent you in court. Our experienced litigators will advocate for your rights and present a compelling case to the judge and jury.

Seeking Legal Help for a Slip and Fall Accident

If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, it’s important to seek legal help as soon as possible, since slip-and-fall cases take some time to conclude. A slip-and-fall lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case and reduce how long it takes for it to be resolved.

Why You Need a Slip and Fall Lawyer

Having a dedicated lawyer by your side ensures your legal rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve for the accident.

Besides the importance of legal representation, hiring a local attorney is even more beneficial. This is because specialized attorneys understand the nuances of Indiana’s premises liability laws, which vary from state to state and can use this knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf.

How A Fort Wayne Slip and Fall Lawyer Can Help With Your Case

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, our slip and fall injury lawyers offer comprehensive support throughout the process of filing a claim after a slip and fall accident. From investigating the accident to negotiating with the parties involved and representing you in court if necessary, we provide a full spectrum of services aimed at securing a favorable outcome for your case.

We understand the challenges that victims face and are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been a victim of a slip and fall accident in Fort Wayne or in the state of Indiana, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.