When you suffer harm at the hands of another responsible party, you deserve to pursue monetary recovery for your injuries and financial losses. However, it’s critical to remember a statute of limitations restricts the time you have to file a lawsuit in your case.
If you sustain injuries in a slip and fall accident, do not hesitate to consult with an experienced slip and fall attorney at Steinberg Injury Lawyers in Los Angeles.
Understanding Slip and Fall Accidents
A slip and fall accident involves slipping or tripping and falling, resulting in injuries.
These types of accidents fall under the category of premises liability. Premises liability is the legal concept when a victim suffers injury due to unsafe conditions on another’s property.
Premises liability cases can be unique and complex. Just because you fell and suffered injuries on another’s property does not necessarily mean you have a case. It depends on your status during the incident and the details surrounding your fall.
When a Property Owner Is Liable
Generally, a property owner is liable for injuries invitees, and licensees suffer.
An invitee is an individual invited onto the property for the property owner's benefit. You're an invitee when you enter a grocery store, shopping mall, or office building. Property owners owe invitees a duty to keep their premises safe and free from potential dangers.
A licensee is an individual the property owner invited onto their property. You're considered a licensee when you visit a family member or friend in their home. For licensees, property owners must warn the licensee of any potential dangers the owner is aware of.
While property owners owe invitees and licensees a duty, it is different for trespassers. A person is considered a trespasser if they enter a property without express or implied consent. Property owners only have a duty not to purposely harm trespassers.
If you’re interested in determining whether you have a viable slip-and-fall case, it is best to discuss it with a qualified attorney in Los Angeles.
Statute of Limitations for Slip and Fall Cases in Los Angeles
Pursuing compensation after a slip and fall accident typically involves either filing an insurance claim with the at-fault property owner’s insurance company or filing a lawsuit against the property owner. Your path to monetary recovery depends on several details, which your slip-and-fall lawyer can assess.
It is especially important to understand you have limited time to take action for the injuries you sustain in a slip and fall accident. Every state imposes a statute of limitations or a law restricting the time plaintiffs file lawsuits in court.
The statute of limitations in California is two years from the date of the incident. Should you fail to take action within two years, you’ll likely forfeit your right to compensation for your harm.
Don’t Miss Legal Deadlines — Choose a Skilled Lawyer
For this and many other reasons, it’s vital you consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after your slip and fall. An experienced attorney at Steinberg Injury Lawyers can ensure your case in Los Angeles is handled promptly, giving you confidence and peace of mind.
We provide 24/7 case evaluations, and our priority is helping you through this difficult time in your life. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with us today.
