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An unexpected fall can change your life in an instant. Whether you were shopping at a local Alief plaza or visiting a commercial property near the Westpark Tollway, a slip and fall accident can lead to mounting medical bills and lost time at work. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a property owner’s negligence, speaking with an experienced Houston Slip and Fall Lawyer is the first step toward protecting your legal rights and securing your future.
Common Causes & Injuries in Alief Slip and Fall Cases
Property owners in Alief have a legal responsibility to maintain safe premises for visitors. When they fail to address hazards, serious accidents occur. Common causes of slip and fall incidents include:
- Wet or slick floors without proper warning signs
- Uneven pavement or cracked sidewalks
- Poorly lit stairwells or parking lots
- Loose floorboards or torn carpeting
- Debris or obstructions in walkways
These accidents often result in significant injuries that require extensive medical treatment, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and severe soft tissue damage.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Documentation from a doctor also serves as vital evidence for your claim.
- Report the Incident: Notify the property owner or manager immediately and ask for a written incident report.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the hazard that caused your fall and the surrounding area.
- Identify Witnesses: Collect contact information from anyone who saw the accident.
- Contact a Lawyer: Before speaking with insurance adjusters, consult with a legal professional to avoid making statements that could hurt your case.
How Fault and Liability Work in Texas
In Texas, premises liability law dictates that property owners must exercise reasonable care to ensure their premises are safe. To hold a property owner liable, we generally must prove that the owner knew (or should have known) about the dangerous condition and failed to fix it or warn you about it. Texas also follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the accident.
Damages You May Recover
While every case is unique, victims of slip and fall accidents may be eligible to recover compensation for various losses, including:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Physical impairment or disfigurement
The Legal Process and Timeline
The journey to recovery usually begins with a thorough investigation of the accident scene and the collection of evidence like surveillance footage. Following this, your lawyer will file a claim with the insurance company and enter negotiations. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to litigation. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident, so it is important to act quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a claim in Houston?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit in Texas. Failing to meet this deadline can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
What if there was a “Caution: Wet Floor” sign?
While a warning sign can affect liability, it does not automatically disqualify your claim. We can evaluate whether the warning was adequate and visible under the circumstances.
How much does it cost to hire an Alief slip and fall lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only receive a fee if we successfully recover compensation for you.
Contact an Alief Slip and Fall Lawyer Today
If you have been injured in Alief or the surrounding Houston area, do not face the insurance companies alone. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of premises liability law while you focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your options. Call us now at (713) 747-7777 or visit our contact page to get started.