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Experienced Slip and Fall Representation in Houston’s Memorial Area
The Memorial neighborhood is one of Houston’s most vibrant areas, home to bustling shopping centers like Memorial City Mall and the upscale CityCentre. While these locations are popular destinations, property owners have a legal responsibility to maintain safe premises for visitors. When they fail to do so, serious accidents can happen. If you have been injured on someone else’s property, speaking with an experienced Houston Slip and Fall Lawyer is the first step toward recovery. At Nguyen Injury Law, we help residents and visitors in Memorial hold negligent parties accountable for the harm they cause.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall incidents are rarely just “accidents.” Often, they are the result of a property owner’s failure to address a known hazard. Common causes we see in the Memorial area include:
- Liquid spills in grocery stores or restaurants
- Freshly mopped floors without warning signs
- Uneven sidewalks or parking lot pavement
- Loose floor mats or torn carpeting
- Inadequate lighting in stairwells or hallways
- Broken handrails or stairs
Typical Injuries Sustained in Falls
A fall can lead to life-altering injuries that require extensive medical treatment. We represent clients suffering from:
- Broken bones and fractures (especially hips and wrists)
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries and herniated discs
- Soft tissue damage and severe bruising
- Knee and shoulder injuries
What to Do After a Slip and Fall in Memorial
Taking the right steps immediately following an accident can significantly impact your ability to seek compensation later. If you are able, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Documentation of your injuries is also vital for your case.
- Report the Incident: Notify the manager or property owner. Ask for a written incident report and a copy for your records.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the hazard that caused your fall, the surrounding area, and your injuries.
- Identify Witnesses: Get contact information from anyone who saw the fall or the hazardous condition.
- Avoid Detailed Statements: Do not admit fault or give recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal counsel.
- Contact a Lawyer: Consult with a professional to understand your rights.
Understanding Liability in Texas Premises Liability Cases
In Texas, property owners and occupiers owe a duty of care to those on their premises. However, the level of care depends on whether you were an invitee (like a customer), a licensee (like a social guest), or a trespasser. 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 repair it or warn you about it. This process involves a detailed investigation of maintenance logs, security footage, and witness testimony.
Potential 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:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment or disfigurement
The Legal Process and Timeline
The timeline for a personal injury claim can vary based on the complexity of the case and the severity of your injuries. Generally, the process involves:
- Initial Consultation: We discuss the facts of your case and determine if we can help.
- Investigation: We gather evidence, including medical records and accident reports.
- Demand and Negotiation: We present a claim to the insurance company and negotiate for a fair settlement.
- Litigation: If a fair agreement cannot be reached, we may file a lawsuit to protect your interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a slip and fall lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only receive a fee if we successfully recover compensation for you.
How long do I have to file a claim in Houston?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. It is best to act quickly to preserve evidence.
What if the floor was wet but there was no sign?
If a property owner created a hazard or knew about it and failed to place a warning sign, they may be held liable for resulting injuries.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Texas follows a “proportionate responsibility” rule. As long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the accident, you may still be able to recover damages, though your award may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Contact a Memorial Slip and Fall Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a fall in the Memorial area of Houston, do not wait to seek legal help. The insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests; you deserve a dedicated advocate on your side. Contact Nguyen Injury Law today for a free consultation. We are ready to listen to your story and help you understand your options.
Call us now at (713) 747-7777 or visit our contact page to schedule your free case evaluation.