We debunk several slip and fall claims that may be misleading you.
If you have been hurt by slipping or falling on someone else’s property, you may be wondering whether you can file a claim and receive compensation to cover any injuries incurred in this event. Slip and fall claims are often worth pursuing, but a lot of bad information out there can make it seem as if they are not. Below, Simons & Goldner debunk four common myths about slip and fall claims that may be preventing you from seeking the compensation you are owed.
You Don’t Have a Legitimate Claim
Sure, accidents happen every day, but if you were injured on someone else’s property and the owner of the property was negligent in ensuring the safety of the area, you may have a legitimate slip and fall claim. The phrase “premises liability” refers to when liability shifts to the owner or possessor of the property if certain elements are met. Generally, this can happen when an injury was directly correlated with a dangerous condition that the owner knew about or should have known about.
A Sign Removes the Owner’s Duty of Care
It is a common misconception that posting a caution or warning sign will relieve a property owner of all liability in a premises liability claim. While this may make substantiating the owner’s negligence more challenging, it doesn’t immediately make your slip and fall claim invalid. For instance, if a sign is posted but is not easily visible to most visitors, this could prove some owner liability.
The Insurance Company is On Your Side
A quick and straightforward settlement after an injury may sound appealing, but the insurance company does not work with your needs in mind. If the insurance representative tries to talk you into quickly taking a settlement agreement, they are likely offering you a reimbursement that is less than fair. Letting your personal injury attorney at Simons & Goldner negotiate with insurance companies is the best way to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Slip and Fall Claims Last Forever
Remember, before filing an insurance claim or taking your case to court, the statute of limitations. A statute of limitations is a mandated time cap on your right to have your case heard in the judicial system. If you try to file your claim after that expiration date, your case will be dismissed. Maryland law gives you three years from the date of your slip and fall injury to file a claim against the at-fault party.
Let Simons & Goldner, P.A. Represent You
Simons & Goldner, P.A., located in Lutherville, MD, consists of two partners, Stevan G. Simons and Richard H. Goldner practicing primarily in personal injury, medical malpractice, Worker’s Compensation, and criminal law. The partners come with decades of experience assisting clients injured by the negligence of others or injured on the job. We serve clients in the Baltimore, Towson, Essex and Dundalk area and work closely with our clients to ensure that your case moves quickly and efficiently and that you get all the benefits to which you are entitled.
Initial consultations are available by phone or in-person and are free of charge. Contact us now to schedule a consultation, or call us today at 410-296-3110. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn for advice and updates.
