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Experienced Legal Representation for Washington Avenue Coalition Residents
The Washington Avenue Coalition / Memorial Park area is one of Houston’s most vibrant neighborhoods, known for its bustling nightlife, popular eateries, and the vast green space of Memorial Park. While these areas are meant to be enjoyed, property owners have a legal responsibility to maintain safe premises for visitors. If you have been injured on someone else’s property, consulting with a Houston Slip and Fall Lawyer can help you understand your rights and options for recovery.
At Nguyen & Associates, we represent individuals who have suffered serious injuries due to hazardous conditions in restaurants, retail stores, apartment complexes, and public spaces throughout the Washington Avenue and Memorial Park corridor. We are committed to holding negligent property owners accountable.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall incidents are rarely just “accidents.” They are often the direct result of a property owner or manager failing to address a known hazard. Common causes in our local community include:
- Wet or slick floors in restaurants and bars along Washington Avenue.
- Uneven pavement or poorly maintained sidewalks near Memorial Park.
- Inadequate lighting in parking garages or stairwells.
- Loose rugs or torn carpeting in commercial buildings.
- Debris or spills in grocery store aisles.
- Failure to place warning signs near recently mopped areas.
These hazards can lead to serious physical consequences, including bone fractures, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord damage, and severe soft tissue injuries.
Steps to Take After a Fall in Memorial Park or Washington Ave
If you are involved in a fall, the actions you take immediately afterward can significantly impact your ability to seek compensation later. We recommend the following steps:
- Report the Incident: Notify the property owner, manager, or supervisor immediately. Ensure they create an official incident report and ask for a copy.
- Document the Scene: Use your phone to take photos of the hazard that caused your fall, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries.
- Identify Witnesses: If anyone saw the fall, ask for their names and contact information.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries like concussions or internal bruising may not be immediately apparent.
- Avoid Giving Statements: Do not provide a recorded statement to insurance adjusters until you have spoken with legal counsel.
Understanding Liability in Texas Premises Liability Law
In Texas, property owners owe a duty of care to those who enter their premises. However, the level of care depends on why you were on the property. Most visitors to businesses are considered “invitees,” meaning the owner must regularly inspect the property and fix or warn of any dangerous conditions. To win a slip and fall case, we generally must prove that the owner knew (or should have known) about the danger and failed to rectify it.
Damages You May Be Eligible to Recover
A serious fall can result in mounting financial pressure. Our goal is to help you recover compensation to cover the various ways the injury has affected your life. This may include:
- Medical expenses (hospital stays, physical therapy, and future care).
- Lost wages if you are unable to return to work.
- Loss of earning capacity for long-term disabilities.
- Pain and suffering and emotional distress.
- Out-of-pocket costs related to your recovery.
The Legal Process and Timeline
Every case is unique, but the process generally follows a specific path. It begins with a thorough investigation where we gather evidence such as surveillance footage and maintenance logs. From there, we file a claim with the insurance company and enter negotiations. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take the matter to court to protect your interests. It is important to note that Texas has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, so acting quickly is essential to preserving your rights.
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.
What if I was partially at fault for my fall?
Texas follows a “proportionate responsibility” rule. You may still be able to recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the incident, though your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Houston?
In most cases, the statute of limitations for personal injury in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. However, you should consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure no deadlines are missed.
Contact a Washington Avenue Coalition Slip and Fall Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in the Washington Avenue Coalition or Memorial Park area, do not navigate the complex legal system alone. The team at Nguyen & Associates is ready to provide the dedicated advocacy you deserve. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and help you determine the best path forward.
Call us today at (713) 747-7777 or visit our contact page to schedule your free case evaluation.