Slip and fall accidents can happen in an instant, but the consequences can last a lifetime. From broken bones to traumatic brain injuries, these incidents often result in painful, costly, and long-term medical issues. Under Pennsylvania’s premises liability laws, property owners have a legal obligation to keep their premises safe. If they fail to do so and someone is injured, they may be held financially responsible. At Fanelli, Evans & Patel, our experienced slip and fall injury lawyers fight to get injured victims the compensation they deserve.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall injuries are typically caused by dangerous conditions that property owners fail to address. Common hazards include the following:
- Wet or Slippery Floors: Spills in grocery stores, restaurants, or office buildings that aren’t cleaned up promptly can pose serious risks.
- Icy Sidewalks or Parking Lots: In winter months, property owners must take reasonable steps to clear snow and ice to prevent falls.
- Broken or Uneven Steps: Damaged stairs or stairwells without handrails are frequent culprits in fall injuries.
- Poor Lighting: Dim or burnt-out lights in hallways, stairwells, or parking garages can make it difficult to see tripping hazards.
- Uneven Flooring or Loose Carpeting: Warped flooring, cracked pavement, or unsecured rugs can cause unsuspecting visitors to trip.
Property owners must fix these hazards or adequately warn people of the danger.
Who Is Liable in a Slip and Fall Case?
In Pennsylvania, property owners, landlords, and business operators can be held liable if someone is injured on their premises due to unsafe conditions. This includes commercial businesses, residential landlords, and even government entities in some cases. Liability typically arises when:
- The owner knew or should have known about a hazardous condition
- They failed to take reasonable steps to correct it or post warning signs
- Their negligence directly resulted in someone’s injury
Whether the accident occurred in a store, apartment complex, sidewalk, or office building, identifying the responsible party is a crucial step toward recovery.
Proving Negligence in Pennsylvania
To win a slip-and-fall claim, the injured person must prove the property owner’s liability. This involves showing:
- Duty of Care: The property owner had a legal responsibility to maintain a safe environment.
- Breach of Duty: The owner failed to fix or warn about a dangerous condition.
- Causation: The breach directly caused the victim’s injuries.
- Damages: The victim suffered real harm—such as physical injury or financial loss—as a result.
Evidence such as surveillance footage, witness testimony, photographs, maintenance records, and medical reports can be key to proving these elements.
Compensation Available in Slip and Fall Claims
Victims of slip and fall accidents may be entitled to several forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation costs.
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to time away from work.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Future Medical Needs: Ongoing therapy, home modifications, or long-term care if injuries are permanent.
Our legal team works to ensure clients pursue the full compensation they’re owed.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Slip and fall cases can be complex and require a fast, thorough response. Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney early in the process can:
- Preserve crucial evidence before it disappears
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Investigate the accident scene and interview witnesses
- Ensure all legal deadlines are met
At Fanelli, Evans, and Patel, we are committed to protecting your rights and maximizing your recovery. Contact us online today, or call us at 570-622-2455, for a free consultation, and let us help you get back on your feet.