If you've recently experienced a slip-and-fall accident in Fresno, you may wonder what your next steps should be. Slip and fall accidents can result in severe injuries and unexpected expenses, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to proceed. Fortunately, legal options are available to help you recover damages and hold responsible parties accountable.
Legal Aspects of Slip and Falls
Liability Issues
Liability in slip-and-fall cases often depends on whether the property owner or occupier was negligent in maintaining the property. Negligence can include:
- Failing to fix a dangerous condition
- Not warning visitors of the hazard
- Failing to inspect the property regularly
In California, property owners and occupiers have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors. However, visitors also have a duty to use reasonable care for their safety. This means that if you were not paying attention or were engaging in risky behavior when you fell, your damages may be reduced.
Statute of Limitations
If you decide to file a slip-and-fall lawsuit in Fresno, you must do so within a certain period. This is known as the statute of limitations. In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including slip and fall cases, is two years from the date of the injury.
It is important to note that if you miss the statute of limitations deadline, you may lose your right to file a lawsuit and recover damages. Therefore, it is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Fresno as soon as possible after your accident.
