Slip & Fall Attorneys in Walnut Creek, California

Slip and fall accidents are far more common than many people realize. Whether caused by wet floors or hidden obstacles, these falls can result in serious injury with potentially costly repercussions. If you have recently had the misfortune of slipping and falling on someone else's property, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. It’s critical that anyone involved in a slip and fall accident knows their rights. We’re here to help walk you through your options so you can get the justice—and compensation—you deserve.

At Brand Peters PC, we're deeply familiar with the intricacies of slip and fall accidents. These cases can be complex, but as seasoned personal injury attorneys based in Walnut Creek, California, we're wholly committed to guiding victims through the legal process. Our mission is to help you secure the compensation you rightfully deserve. We also serve clients throughout Contra Costa County, Alameda County, and Solano County.   

Overview of Premises Liability in California

Slip and fall incidents are part of what's known as premises liability in California. This concept refers to the legal responsibility that property owners have to ensure their premises are safe for visitors and guests. If a property owner fails in this duty, and someone gets injured as a result, they can be held accountable for the damages. 

In our state, property owners are legally required to exercise reasonable care when it comes to maintaining their properties. They're expected to regularly inspect their premises, identify potential hazards, and take measures to rectify these issues. If they were aware of—or should have been aware of—a dangerous condition on their property and didn't act to prevent injuries, they could be deemed negligent. 

Premises liability laws aren't just applicable to public properties—they also cover private ones. Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, from retail stores and restaurants to office buildings, sidewalks, and even private homes. Regardless of where they occur, the property owners are obligated to ensure the safety of all who enter their premises. 

Who Can Be Liable in a Slip and Fall Accident?

When a slip and fall accident happens, several parties could potentially be held responsible for any injuries sustained. The primary party is usually the property owner or occupier. However, others such as property managers, maintenance companies, or contractors might also share liability, depending on the specific circumstances of the incident. 

We understand the importance of a thorough investigation to identify all potentially liable parties. This process might involve collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing maintenance records. Identifying everyone who bears responsibility is crucial in ensuring that you can pursue maximum compensation for your injuries. 

Proving Fault

To prove fault in a slip and fall accident, it's necessary to show that the property owner or occupier was negligent in maintaining a safe environment. There are three key elements that must be proven: 

1. The defendant owned, leased, or occupied the property where the accident occurred. 

2. They were negligent in the way they used or treated the property. 

3. Their negligence was a substantial factor in causing the injuries sustained. 

Gathering evidence to support these elements is vital. As experienced attorneys specializing in slip and fall cases, we can help you collect and present this evidence, which could include photographs of the hazardous condition, witness statements, incident reports, and any available surveillance footage. 

Comparative Fault in California

California operates under a comparative fault system, which means that if you, as the injured party, were partially at fault for the accident, it could affect the amount of compensation you receive. If it's determined that you were 20% at fault, for example, your total compensation would be reduced by that percentage. However, as long as you're found to be less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Our team can assess your case's circumstances and explain how comparative fault might impact your claim. 

Retain Legal Counsel Right Away

Dealing with the aftermath of a slip and fall accident can be daunting, especially when you're also handling injuries and medical expenses. That's where we come in. Hiring our skilled attorneys can provide numerous benefits, including: 

• Thorough investigation: We'll conduct a comprehensive investigation to gather evidence, identify liable parties, and build a strong case on your behalf. 

• Negotiation and settlement: We'll handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies and opposing parties, aiming to secure a fair settlement that covers your damages. 

• Litigation representation: If a fair settlement isn't possible, we're prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights in front of a judge and jury. 

• Legal knowledge: Slip and fall cases involve complex legal principles and procedures. With our extensive experience in personal injury law, we can navigate these complexities and ensure your rights are protected.