With more people out walking, running errands, and participating in outdoor activities slip and falls are just as frequent during the warmer months as they are during the winter.
About 20 percent of falls result in serious injuries, including broken bones and head trauma. If you or someone you know is hurt on someone else’s property, an experienced slip-and-fall lawyer can help protect your rights and win the compensation you deserve.
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR A SIDEWALK SLIP AND FALL ACCIDENT?
Not everyone who is the victim of a slip and fall accident has grounds for a lawsuit against the property owner. In order to prevail in a lawsuit against the property owner, you must prove the fall was the direct result of negligence.
Under Michigan law negligence, in this situation, can occur when property owners do not keep their premises safe and free of hazards. However, property owners must be allowed to have adequate time to remedy the hazard that may cause the incident.
CAN I SUE THE LANDLORD IF I FALL ON THE SIDEWALK OF AN APARTMENT COMPLEX?
In many cases, yes. Landlords in Michigan are legally required to maintain their rental properties. However, remember you must prove negligence. This means the landlord or property owner neglected their duty to maintain a safe environment.
Below are some examples of conditions that could lead to serious injuries:
- Broken or uneven concrete on sidewalks or walkways
- Stairway hazards such as defective steps or landings
- Loose or missing handrails
- Inadequate lighting, including burnt-out bulbs
- Large puddles or wet floors due to leaks or broken pipes
- Faulty elevators
- Porches, steps, or handrails with rotting wood
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE SIDEWALK IS ON PUBLIC PROPERTY?
Winning a slip-and-fall case against a city or other municipality is different, and more difficult, than suing a private property owner. Specific standards must be met and the filing deadlines are typically much shorter than the three-year statute of limitations for other personal injury claims.
Additionally, most states, including Michigan, along with counties, cities, and other municipalities are protected by governmental immunity, which makes it difficult to recover damages even if the fall was caused by negligence.
However, as with all injuries sustained when negligence may be involved, it is always recommended you contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to review your case.
PUT OUR EXPERIENCED SLIP-AND-FALL LAWYERS TO WORK FOR YOU TODAY!
If you were injured in a slip-and-fall accident we can help. The expert attorneys at Koussan Law know what it takes to build a winning case and we will fight to win the compensation you deserve.
Get your free case evaluation today by clicking the button below or calling (313) 444-8348.
