Personal Injury Lawyer

Slip and fall accidents can occur under almost any circumstance. Many times they are avoidable, but for some instances, it could be because of someone’s act of negligence. A landlord’s reluctance to fix a broken stairway, a sidewalk that a neighbor failed to keep clear of snow and ice, or in some cases, a thief who willfully hurt their victim — all of these are perfect examples of negligence. 

It surprises many to learn that falling from a standing position can result in serious or even fatal injuries. Sustaining such injuries does not require falling from a great height. And if the person falls onto a sharp object, they can be fatally impaled. If you were injured by a thief, or if you lost a loved one to the crimes committed by a thief, you may have legal recourse for finding relief.

Personal Injury Claims

Though some people steal simply for the sake of stealing because they find it exciting, however, most often it is because of the drive for personal gain or personal use of the stolen object. Therefore, it can be difficult to obtain compensation from them to pay for your medical bills and other damages associated with the injury they caused. In a court judgment against the thief, it may be possible to request that their wages are garnished and paid to you until your damages are recovered. If the thief was a minor, you may be able to file a claim against their parents. Your attorney can provide guidance to you by clarifying whether or not this is a legal avenue available to you.

If the crime occurred on private property, you may be eligible to file an injury claim with the property owner’s insurance company. If the crime occurred on public property, you may be able to file an injury claim with the business that owns that property. If it is owned by a municipal government or other government agency, the same applies. Your attorney can advise you as to whether or not you have grounds for filing a claim, such as the property owner did not take reasonable steps to prevent theft and assaults against visitors.

Wrongful Death Claims

If your loved one was fatally injured during the course of a theft, your family may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim against the thief. However, unless it is determined that they have sufficient assets to pay your damages and attorney fees, this may not be a viable option. As with a personal injury claim, if the individual is a minor then you may be able to file a lawsuit or injury claim against the thief’s parents.

Common Injuries from Slip and Fall Accidents

A slip and fall accident may result in any number of serious injuries, including the following:

  • Brain injury
  • Spinal injury
  • Broken or fractured bones
  • Severe bruising and lacerations

If you were injured by someone, contacting an attorney, like a personal injury lawyer from a law firm like Johnston Martineau, LLP, could help you find clarity for your circumstance and learn if you have the legal recourse for recovering from the damages.