Myths Our Memphis Slip and Fall Attorneys Hear Every Day
Slip and fall accidents are a common occurrence and can happen to anyone, anywhere. Unfortunately, there are a ton of myths and misconceptions surrounding these types of accidents.
As an attorney who handles slip and fall cases, I hear a lot of myths from people who don’t know much about the process. It can lead to misinformation and confusion, and it can make life a lot harder for people injured in these falls.
Myth: Slip and fall accidents are always the victim’s fault.
FACT: This is one of the most common myths surrounding slip and fall accidents. While it is true that victims can sometimes be partially responsible for their injuries, it’s not always the case. And despite common belief, it’s actually very hard to pursue a bogus injury claim—judges can and do throw them out.
Property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a safe condition and warn visitors of any potential hazards. If you open a business, you need to keep it safe.
When a property owner fails to meet this duty, they may be held liable for someone’s injuries.
Myth: Accidents like this don’t cause serious injuries.
FACT: Slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
These injuries may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. They can change a person’s life. As just one example, I recently represented someone who slipped on an overflowing trash can at a fast food restaurant. She required knee surgery and extensive recovery time and had huge medical bills as a result.
Myth: A true slip and fall case means there were obvious visible hazards.
FACT: Property owners have to identify and address potential hazards, regardless of whether or not you can easily see them. Slippery substances often appear transparent. Other hazards may be concealed by furniture or other objects.
For example, in the case we mentioned above, an average person couldn’t see the syrup that leaked out from the trash can. For exactly that reason, the company had a rule to change out the trash cans on a specific schedule. They failed to do so, which resulted in our client’s injuries.
Myth: Slip and fall accidents only happen to elderly people.
FACT: Slip and fall accidents can happen to anyone, regardless of age. They can occur in a variety of settings, like stores, restaurants, and even private residences.
Elderly people may not be able to see hazards easily, and their injuries may be more severe. But their age isn’t relevant in a slip and fall case: by welcoming people into your business, you are responsible to help them stay safe.
Myth: These cases are easy to win.
FACT: Slip and fall cases can be complex and challenging. You have to prove a lot, including:
- The property owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the hazard.
- The slip and fall accident caused your injuries.
- Your injuries resulted in damages like medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
It takes real work to put together a successful case. That’s why you want to make sure you choose a qualified, experienced personal injury lawyer.
Choosing the Personal Injury Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident, you could end up with extensive medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. When that happens, the legal system can help — and we can, too.
Our Memphis personal injury team has a proven track record of success in slip and fall cases. We aren’t afraid to take on large corporations and insurance companies—we do it successfully all the time.
We will work tirelessly to investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a legal strategy for your success. And we don’t make a penny unless and until you do.
Don’t fall for myths about slip and fall cases, especially when you need help.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation: 901-327-2100, or use the form on this page.