Recovering Compensation After a Slip and Fall Accident in Pennsylvania

Walking is an everyday activity that is not usually seen as dangerous. However, when conditions outside are poor and not taken care of by those obligated to do so, accidents can happen. While these can sometimes be due to a person’s own clumsiness, they can also occur due to the negligence of another party. When this happens, it is important to retain the services of an experienced attorney for assistance with a case.

Examples of Accidents

Often times, slip and fall accidents can occur in locations such as sidewalks, streets, parking lots, and more. There are numerous ways that a pedestrian may be involved in a slip and fall accident. This can include the following circumstances:

  • Damaged sidewalks
  • Weather conditions (snow, ice, standing water)
  • Potholes, uneven pavement, cracked surfaces
  • Loose debris
  • Hazardous materials
  • Slippery substances

Who is Liable?

If involved in these accidents, it is important to know that property owners in Pennsylvania have a legal obligation to maintain safe premises. This ensures that people do not become injured if they come onto another’s property. A property owner may be a private citizen, public store, private company, or municipal property. What many property owners do not know is that they are responsible for the sidewalk adjacent to their property. 

This duty to the public requires property owners to clean up their grounds after poor weather conditions, such as snow and ice. In the state of Pennsylvania, property owners have 24 hours from the end of a snowfall to clean their property and ensure its safety. If a person is injured within that window of time, they may not have a successful case, as it was a risk to walk during that time. If the injury occurs after the period of time, the property owner may be liable for the injuries. 

Proving Negligence

When a person is injured in a slip and fall accident due to the negligence of another party, they may want to pursue legal action. This can be done with a personal injury claim. During this time, it is important to know that the injured party must prove negligence by satisfying the burden of proof. This can be done with evidence that shows the property owner was aware, or should have been aware, of the hazard that caused the individual to fall and become injured. Evidence that can be useful in a case can include medical documentation of the injuries, pictures of the hazard, and any witnesses to the incident. Proving negligence can often be difficult, which is why it is crucial to retain the services of a skilled attorney for help.

Recovering Compensation 

If the injured party is successful in proving negligence, they may be eligible to recover significant financial compensation. This exists as coverage for any damages that stem from the accident, including the following:

  • Lost wages
  • Loss of future wages
  • Medical bills as a result of the injury
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress

Contact our Firm

Friedman Schuman is an experienced and dedicated legal resource for clients throughout Pennsylvania. We proudly serve clients facing a wide range of legal matters. If you require the services of an effective attorney, please contact Friedman Schuman today to schedule a consultation.

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