What To Know about Filing a Trip and Fall Claim Against a City
Trip and fall incidents may result in injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages. Filing a claim helps you receive fair compensation for these outcomes, reducing your financial burden. A trip and fall lawyer from Philly Slip and Fall Guys can help you navigate the claim process and address your damages. Here are several things to know about filing a claim against a city:
Steps To Take After the Incident
Taking the proper steps after a trip and fall incident is key for building a solid case against a city. These steps help make sure your accident is adequately documented, reported, and monitored. Here are several things to do following a trip and fall on public property:
1. Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety are top priorities after a trip and fall. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries may take time to become apparent. Obtain and keep detailed medical records of your injuries, treatment, and any prescribed medications. These records provide valuable evidence to support your claim against the city.
2. Gather Evidence and Documentation
Take clear photographs of the accident scene, focusing on the hazardous condition that caused your fall. Write down detailed notes about the incident, including the exact location, time, weather conditions, and other relevant details. If possible, obtain maintenance records for the area where the fall occurred. These records show whether the city was aware of the hazard and failed to address it. Gather written statements from witnesses to help corroborate your account of the incident. Comprehensive evidence and documentation help validate your claim.
3. Consult a Lawyer
Contacting a trip and fall lawyer experienced in pursuing cases against municipalities may increase your chances of a successful claim. Our attorneys know the time limitations of filing a claim, the nuances of municipal liability, and the specific requirements needed to build your case. We can help you understand your case’s strengths and potential challenges, allowing you to make informed decisions about how to proceed.
4. File a Notice of Claim
A notice of claim is a formal document submitted to a city that outlines the details of an accident, the resulting injuries, and the intention to seek damages. It informs the city of the incident, allowing it to investigate and potentially resolve the matter before it proceeds to litigation. In the City of Philadelphia, you must provide this notice within six months of your incident. Filing the notice after this timeframe may result in the dismissal of your claim.
When To File a Trip and Fall Claim
Several situations can warrant filing a trip and fall claim against a city, including if the injury-causing accident occurred on public property. These locations may include city-maintained streets, sidewalks, or public buildings. Incidents that occur at city parks and recreational areas can also have grounds for a claim. Here are some circumstances where a trip and fall claim against the city may be justified:
- Uneven or Broken Sidewalks
- Poorly Maintained Roads
- Defective Public Stairs
- Obstructed Public Pathways
- Inadequate Lighting in Public Areas
- Poorly Maintained Public Parks
- Unmarked Construction Zones
- Broken Steps or Platforms in Public Transportation Areas
When deciding whether to file a claim, determine if your case involves negligence. Negligence means the city failed to exercise reasonable care in fulfilling its duties, resulting in harm or injury. If a city postponed the repair of a known hazardous pothole and you were injured, you might claim that the city was negligent. A trip and fall lawyer at Philly Slip and Fall Guys can help you determine if negligence is applicable. You would then need to prove that the city had a duty to maintain the roads and breached that duty by not fixing the pothole, resulting in your injury.
How a Trip and Fall Lawyer Can Help
Trip and fall lawyers provide valuable assistance and knowledge throughout the process of filing and pursuing a claim against a city. Our team will assess the details of your incident, the extent of your injuries, and the evidence you have to determine the viability of your claim. We can then use these details to help you build a strong case to support your claim.
During negotiations with the city, we will represent your interests and seek a fair settlement on your behalf. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we can help you understand your options for filing a lawsuit. Our attorneys are experienced in premises liability and will help you pursue adequate compensation for your damages.
Partner With Philly Slip and Fall Guys
Trip and fall lawyers have extensive knowledge of personal injury law and the specific legal standards for municipal liability. We work to maximize your compensation, protect your rights, and help you navigate your legal proceedings successfully. Contact our team at Philly Slip and Fall Guys to assess your case and begin your pursuit for fair compensation.
