Trip And Fall Lawyer Metairie, LA

Trip And Fall Lawyer Metairie, LA - accident at workIf you were seriously injured while visiting a property, then contact a Metairie, LA trip and fall lawyer right away. We have seen the types of injuries that victims of fall accidents can sustain, everything from soft tissue wounds and broken bones to traumatic head injury and disability. When people visit a public or private property, the owner of that property owes a duty of care to visitors to keep the environment reasonably safe. If a property owner is neglectful when it comes to safety, and someone is hurt because of that, then the victim could receive financial restitution for what they have endured. If you believe that you may have a case against a property owner for a fall accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kiefer & Kiefer today.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Falls are a common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). This type of injury happens when the brain hits the inner surface of the skull, leading to bleeding and bruising of the brain. This bruise is referred to as a contusion, and is more serious than a bruise of other areas of the body. Conditions like these can lead to permanent changes in that person’s health and brain function. Sometimes, a TBI is fatal. Those who sustained a traumatic brain injury from a slip and fall are encouraged to learn more about their eligibility for current and future medical costs. 

Wounds and Lacerations

Depending on the nature of the fall, a person may have sustained soft tissue wounds and deep lacerations. Falling on broken glass, debris, sharp metal, other dangerous items can cause wounds. These injuries may require stitches to heal, which can leave behind permanent scars. In severe cases, wounds and lacerations can result in damaged muscles, organs, nerves, or other soft tissues beneath the skin. If you suspect that a person, company, or other party is responsible for why your trip and fall happened, then we suggest having a Metairie trip and fall lawyer investigate the situation further.

Musculoskeletal System

The body functions best when the musculoskeletal system is healthy, strong, and aligned. After a slip and fall, a person may need to see a chiropractor for misalignments of the spine and other joints. When hitting a hard surface such as the ground or nearby objects, it can throw the musculoskeletal system off-balance. Some people may have stiffness, soreness, and reduced movement in their extremities after a slip and fall. If you think you might need to see a chiropractor for spinal misalignments, then give our team a call so that we can ensure you get the care you need and compensation to cover it. 

Call Kiefer & Kiefer Today

Fall accidents should always be taken seriously. As a Metairie trip and fall lawyer explains, if a property owner failed to provide a reasonably safe environment for residents or visitors, then they could be liable for the injury and damages that people experienced. If you want to know if you have grounds for a case, consult with us at Kiefer & Kiefer today. 

Trusted Trip and Fall Lawyer in Metairie, LA: Your Path to Compensation

Your Reliable Legal Partner in Metairie

Working with a Metairie, LA trip and fall lawyer can ensure that you or your loved one can obtain the compensation necessary following an accident.  At Kiefer & Kiefer, we are your trusted legal partners, committed to advocating for your rights and helping you secure the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Trip and Fall Cases

Trip and fall accidents, often referred to as slip and fall accidents, are personal injury cases that occur when an individual is injured due to hazardous conditions on another party’s property. Following a trip and fall accident, it’s within your legal right to pursue compensation for any injuries sustained alongside other factors like emotional distress.

The Role of a Trip and Fall Lawyer

A trip and fall lawyer plays a crucial role in helping you navigate the legal complexities of your case. An experienced Metairie trip and fall lawyer from our team can help you with the following:

  • Assess Liability: We investigate the circumstances of your accident to determine if the property owner was negligent in maintaining safe premises.
  • Gather Evidence: We collect evidence, including photographs, witness statements, and accident reports, to build a strong case on your behalf.
  • Handle Negotiations: Our lawyers negotiate with insurance companies and at-fault parties to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
  • Litigation: If negotiations do not result in a satisfactory outcome, we are prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.

Types of Compensation in Trip and Fall Cases

Following a trip and fall case, you can obtain compensation for the following:

  • Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical bills, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
  • Lost Income: If your injury prevents you from working, you may be eligible to seek compensation for lost wages, including future earning potential.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional pain and suffering endured as a result of the injury.
  • Property Damage: If personal property, such as clothing or electronic devices, was damaged in the fall, you can seek compensation for repair or replacement costs.
  • Other Damages: Additional damages may include loss of consortium or loss of enjoyment of life, depending on the circumstances of your case.

Determining Liability in Trip and Fall Cases

Establishing liability in trip and fall cases involves proving that the property owner or occupier was negligent in maintaining safe conditions on their premises. Some common examples of negligence can be:

  1. Hazardous Condition: There was a hazardous condition on the property, such as a wet floor, uneven surface, or debris.
  2. Knowledge: The property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition but failed to address it or provide warnings.
  3. Causation: The hazardous condition directly caused the trip and fall accident and subsequent injuries.

If you’ve been involved in a trip and fall accident in Metairie, LA, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Contact Kiefer & Kiefer today to schedule a consultation with our experienced trip and fall lawyers. We are here to support you, protect your rights, and guide you toward the compensation you rightfully deserve. Your path to recovery and justice begins with us, and by giving us a call, you can work with a Metairie trip and fall lawyer!

Types Of Potential Injuries From Trip And Fall Accidents

A Metairie, LA trip and fall lawyer knows that these types of accidents can result in a range of injuries, some of which can be quite severe. These accidents often occur due to hazardous conditions, inadequate maintenance, or negligence. The following are some of the most common types of injuries suffered in trip and fall accidents.

Fractures And Broken Bones

Fractures and broken bones are among the most common injuries in trip and fall accidents. When a person falls, the impact can cause bones to break or fracture, particularly in the wrists, arms, hips, and legs. The severity of these injuries can vary, ranging from hairline fractures to compound fractures that break the bone through the skin.

Fractures and broken bones may require immobilization with casts, splints, or surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the injury. Recovery times can vary, and some fractures may lead to long-term mobility limitations.

Sprains And Strains

Trip and fall accidents often result in sprained or strained muscles, ligaments, or tendons. These injuries occur when the body’s soft tissues are stretched or torn during the fall. Commonly affected areas include the ankles, knees, wrists, and shoulders.

Sprains involve stretching or tearing ligaments, while strains affect muscles or tendons. Recovery typically involves rest, physical therapy, and rehabilitation exercises to regain strength and flexibility.

Head Injuries And Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

As a Metairie, LA trip and fall lawyer can explain, head injuries are a significant concern in trip and fall accidents, particularly when a person’s head makes contact with a hard surface. Even a seemingly minor fall can result in a head injury. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) range from concussions to more severe forms of brain damage. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, mood changes, and loss of consciousness.

 TBIs can have long-lasting consequences and may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. In severe cases, they can lead to permanent cognitive impairments or disabilities.

Back And Spinal Cord Injuries

Falls can result in back injuries, including damage to the spine or spinal cord. Injuries to the spine can lead to severe pain, loss of mobility, or even paralysis. Falls that result in a direct impact on the back can cause fractures to the vertebrae or damage to the spinal cord, leading to lifelong impairments.

The treatment for back and spinal cord injuries can involve surgery, physical therapy, and adaptive equipment to help individuals regain independence.

Soft Tissue Injuries And Contusions

Soft tissue injuries, such as contusions (bruises), cuts, scrapes, and abrasions, are common in trip and fall accidents. These injuries can be painful and may result from contact with sharp objects or uneven surfaces during the fall. While they are generally less severe than fractures or head injuries, they can still require medical attention and wound care to prevent infection.

In some cases, particularly when falls occur on hard or abrasive surfaces, soft tissue injuries can lead to complications like infections or permanent scarring.

Pursuing Legal Action

To prevent trip and fall accidents, property owners, businesses, and individuals must maintain safe premises, address hazardous conditions promptly, and take precautions to minimize the risk of falls. When negligence or inadequate maintenance leads to trip and fall accidents, victims may have the legal right to pursue compensation for their injuries and related losses through a premises liability claim. Consulting with an experienced Metairie, LA trip and fall lawyer can help victims understand their rights and navigate the legal process to seek justice and compensation. Call Kiefer & Kiefer to schedule a free consultation.

Injured person receiving help after sidewalk accident

Metairie Trip & Fall FAQ

Sidewalks, parking lots, and store aisles might seem like safe spaces, but thousands of people suffer serious injuries each year when hazardous conditions cause them to trip and fall. These accidents happen in an instant, yet the physical, emotional, and financial consequences can last for months or even years. If you’ve been injured due to a dangerous condition on someone else’s property, you likely have questions about your rights and options for recovery. We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions we hear from people just like you who are dealing with the aftermath of a trip and fall incident.

Who Can Be Held Responsible For My Injuries?

Property owners and occupiers have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. This includes business owners, landlords, property management companies, and even homeowners in certain situations. When they fail to address dangerous conditions like cracked pavement, uneven flooring, inadequate lighting, or debris in walkways, they may be liable for your injuries. The key factor is whether they knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to fix it or provide adequate warning. We help injured individuals identify all potentially responsible parties and hold them accountable for negligence.

What Types Of Injuries Typically Result From These Accidents?

Trip and fall accidents often cause more severe injuries than people realize. Broken bones, particularly in the wrists, arms, ankles, and hips, are extremely common as people instinctively try to break their fall. Head injuries and concussions occur when someone strikes their head on the ground or nearby objects. Soft tissue damage, including sprains, strains, and torn ligaments, can require extensive physical therapy. Spinal injuries may lead to chronic pain and mobility issues. We’ve represented clients who suffered all of these injuries and understand the medical treatment and recovery time involved.

Why Property Owners Try To Deny Liability?

Insurance companies and property owners frequently dispute trip and fall claims because they want to minimize their financial exposure. They might argue that the hazard was “open and obvious” or claim you weren’t paying attention to where you were walking. They may suggest that you’re partially or entirely at fault for your own injuries. Some will even deny that the dangerous condition existed at all. These tactics are designed to discourage you from pursuing fair compensation. We know these strategies and how to counter them with solid evidence and legal arguments.

How We Prove Your Trip And Fall Case?

Building a strong claim requires thorough investigation and documentation. We start by photographing the accident scene and identifying all hazardous conditions. We obtain incident reports, surveillance footage, and maintenance records that show how long the dangerous condition existed. Medical records establish the extent of your injuries and connect them directly to the fall. Witness statements provide additional support for your account of what happened. We also consult with safety professionals when needed to demonstrate how the property owner violated industry standards. Every piece of evidence strengthens your position during settlement negotiations or trial.

How Much Time Do I Have To File A Claim?

Louisiana law imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits, typically one year from the date of your accident. Missing this deadline usually means losing your right to compensation forever, regardless of how strong your case might be. Insurance companies know these time limits and may delay communications hoping you’ll run out of time. We recommend contacting a Metairie, LA trip and fall lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. Early involvement allows us to preserve evidence, interview witnesses while memories are fresh, and meet all legal deadlines.

What Compensation Can I Receive For My Injuries?

The damages available in trip and fall cases depend on the specific circumstances and severity of your injuries. Medical expenses, including emergency care, hospital stays, surgery, medication, and ongoing treatment, are typically recoverable. Lost wages compensate you for income you’ve already missed and future earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job. Pain and suffering damages address the physical discomfort and emotional distress you’ve endured. In some cases, you may also receive compensation for permanent disability or disfigurement. We calculate the full value of your claim to pursue maximum recovery.

How Long Does The Legal Process Take?

Every case follows its own timeline based on factors like the severity of injuries, the clarity of liability, and the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate fairly. Some straightforward cases settle within a few months through negotiations. Complex cases involving serious injuries or disputed liability may take a year or longer, especially if trial becomes necessary. We work efficiently to move your case forward while never rushing to accept an inadequate settlement. Our priority is securing the best possible outcome for you, whether that happens through negotiation or litigation.

What Should I Do Immediately After An Accident?

Your actions immediately following a trip and fall can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Some conditions don’t present symptoms until hours or days later. Report the incident to the property owner or manager and request that they document it in writing. Take photographs of the hazard that caused your fall and the surrounding area. Collect contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident. Preserve the shoes you were wearing and any torn or damaged clothing. Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters before speaking with us.

How Much Does Legal Representation Cost?

We handle trip and fall cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront and no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. This arrangement makes legal representation accessible regardless of your financial situation and aligns our interests with yours—we only succeed when you succeed. We also advance all case-related expenses, from obtaining medical records to hiring specialists, so you never have to pay out of pocket during the claims process. When we do recover compensation on your behalf, our fee comes as a percentage of that recovery, and we’re completely transparent about our fee structure from the start.

Why Cases Get Denied Without Legal Help?

Insurance companies employ adjusters and attorneys whose job is to minimize payouts. When you handle a claim on your own, you’re at a significant disadvantage. Adjusters may use your words against you, twist your statements, or pressure you into accepting a low settlement before you fully understand the extent of your injuries. They know most unrepresented individuals lack knowledge about premises liability law and proper claim valuation. We level the playing field by handling all communications with insurance companies, protecting you from these tactics, and advocating firmly for your rights.

Trip and fall accidents disrupt lives in ways that extend far beyond the initial injury. You shouldn’t have to navigate the legal system alone while trying to recover physically and financially from someone else’s negligence. The team at Kiefer & Kiefer is committed to helping injured individuals throughout Louisiana pursue the justice and compensation they deserve. We bring decades of combined experience to every case and treat each client with the respect and attention their situation demands. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your accident and learn how we can help you move forward. Your recovery is our mission, and we’re ready to fight for the outcome you need.