Did You Suffer a Slip and Fall Accident in Minnesota? Here’s What You Need to Know
March 15, 2024 – Paul W. Schroepfer & Robert A. Correia
Slip and fall accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time—whether you’re at work, in a store, or simply walking down the street. In Minnesota, the icy winters often contribute to these accidents, making it all the more important for you to know your rights and the steps to take should you find yourself a victim of such an incident.
Have you or a loved one been injured in a slip and fall accident and feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn for help? You may be wondering if you have a case, if you can sue, and who exactly you should speak to about your situation. The good news is if something contributed to your slip and fall accident, you might be able to receive compensation.
At Robichaud, Schroepfer & Correia, our professional and client-focused Minneapolis slip and fall lawyers have 70 years of combined experience and know the ins and outs of Minneapolis personal injury law. This means we know how to obtain the maximum compensation you need to move on from injuries sustained in a slip and fall accident. Contact us at (612) 333-3343 to schedule your free consultation to discuss your case.
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, please keep reading. You may be surprised by just how much help is available to you.
Recoverable Damages After a Slip and Fall
While a slip and fall might seem like a minor incident, the consequences can be far-reaching and financially overwhelming. While the specific amount of compensation you may be entitled to depends on the unique circumstances of your case, here are some common types of damages you might recover after a slip and fall accident:
Medical Expenses
- Emergency room visits: Costs associated with initial evaluation and treatment after the accident.
- Doctor appointments: Ongoing consultations with specialists for diagnosis, treatment plans, and follow-up care.
- Medical procedures: Surgeries, X-rays, MRIs, medications, and other necessary interventions, including physical therapy and rehabilitation.
- Long-term care: In cases of permanent disabilities, ongoing medical care, assistance with daily living activities, or modifications to your home.
Lost Wages
- Compensation for income lost due to your inability to work while recovering from your injuries. This may include salary, bonuses, and commissions.
Pain and Suffering
- Compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering caused by the accident, including chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
- Compensation for the inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed due to your injuries.
Property Damage
- Reimbursement for any damage to personal belongings sustained in the fall.
Wrongful Death
- If a loved one tragically dies due to a slip-and-fall accident, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for various losses, including funeral and burial expenses, lost income from the deceased, and emotional distress.
It’s important to remember that this is not an exhaustive list, and the specific damages you may be eligible for will vary depending on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the specific circumstances of your case. Consulting with an experienced Minneapolis slip and fall lawyer can help you determine the full extent of your recoverable damages and navigate the legal process effectively.
Determining Liability
Establishing who is responsible for your injuries is critical in seeking compensation after a slip and fall accident. In Minnesota, two primary legal concepts come into play:
Premises Liability
This principle holds property owners accountable for maintaining a safe environment for visitors. To succeed in a premises liability claim, you must demonstrate:
- You were a lawful visitor on the property: This could be an invitee (invited guest), licensee (granted permission to be there), or trespasser (without permission). The specific duty of care owed by the property owner varies depending on your visitor status.
- The property owner breached their duty of care: This means they failed to take reasonable steps to maintain the property in a safe condition or warn visitors about potential hazards.
- The breach of care directly caused your injuries: You must establish a clear connection between the property owner’s negligence and your harm.
Comparative Negligence
Minnesota follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means that the percentage of fault you share for the accident will directly impact your potential compensation. Here’s how it works:
- If you are found to be 50% or less at fault: You can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- If you are found to be more than 50% at fault: You cannot recover any damages.
It’s crucial to understand that determining liability in slip and fall cases can be complex and involve various factors specific to each situation. Consulting with an experienced Minneapolis personal injury lawyer is highly recommended. They can assess the details of your case, evaluate the applicable legal principles, and advise you on the best course of action for pursuing your claim.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Attorney in Minnesota After a Slip and Fall
The aftermath of a slip-and-fall accident can be overwhelming, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional distress, and significant financial burdens. Navigating the legal complexities of seeking compensation can be daunting, and that’s where partnering with an experienced personal injury attorney becomes invaluable. Here’s how they can significantly strengthen your case and protect your rights:
Understanding the Statute of Limitations
Every state has a specific timeframe for filing personal injury claims, and Minnesota is no exception. An attorney can assess your case and ensure you meet the relevant deadline, preventing you from losing your right to compensation due to technicalities.
Leveling the Playing Field
Once you file a lawsuit, the opposing party, often backed by their insurance company, will likely have legal representation. An experienced attorney can match their expertise, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Building a Strong Case
Establishing liability is crucial in any slip-and-fall claim. Your attorney can gather evidence, such as witness statements, accident reports, and medical records, to demonstrate the property owner’s negligence and its direct connection to your injuries.
Advocating for Your Best Interests
Negotiating with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you receive the maximum settlement for your damages.
Presenting a Compelling Argument
If your case goes to court, your attorney will skillfully present your arguments, refute the opposing party’s claims, and fight for maximum compensation.
Don’t Let a Slip and Fall Set You Back. Get the Compensation You Need
Facing the aftermath of a slip and fall accident can be stressful and confusing. At Robichaud, Schroepfer & Correia, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you’re facing. Our experienced Minneapolis personal injury lawyers are dedicated to helping you recover the maximum compensation you need to move forward, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
We understand that financial concerns should be the least of your worries after an accident. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t pay anything upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
With over 70 years of combined experience and a proven track record of success, we’re committed to providing you with personalized attention and guidance throughout the entire legal process. Our compassionate team will be by your side every step of the way, offering strong legal representation and the support you need to recover.
Don’t wait any longer to get the help you need. Schedule a FREE consultation today by calling (612) 333-3343 or completing our online form. We’re here to help you get back on your feet and move forward with your life.
Copyright © 2024. Robichaud, Schroepfer & Correia, P.A. All rights reserved.
The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.
Robichaud, Schroepfer & Correia, P.A.
1601 HENNEPIN AVE, SUITE 200
MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55403
(612) 333-3343
https://robichaudlaw.com/