Maison Law guides people through the claims process when they’re injured in a slip-and-fall accident at a Home Depot in California. There’s a lot of different fall hazards at these stores, and just as many ways that management can warn you. This is often as simple as a wet floor sign, but it’s up to the individual workers and management to carry out these rules. When they don’t and you get hurt, you have legal options that our team can help you with. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Happens When There’s No Wet Floor Sign Out Before a Slip-and-Fall Accident at Home Depot?
There’s two ways to look at what happens when you slip and fall on a wet floor at Home Depot. First and foremost, it’s very likely that you’ll end up getting hurt. This means that you’re facing injuries and other losses that you’ll have to deal with. The missing wet floor sign means that you’re not being warned of a potential hazard, and makes a slip-and-fall accident much more likely to happen.
Legally, though, not putting out a wet floor sign amounts to “negligence.” And that means that Home Depot’s management (and potentially their employees) are going to be legally responsible for your “damages” under California’s premises liability laws. But at least initially, you need to do certain things after the accident happens to protect your claim.
What Should You Do After a Slip-and-Fall at Home Depot Because There Was No Wet Floor Sign?
A slip-and-fall that happens because there was no wet floor sign is frustrating because it was likely totally preventable if only the store’s management and employees had done what they’re legally required to do. But once it happens, it’s all about what you do. Here’s a few things that are going to play a big role in how your potential claim plays out:
- Report the fall – Tell a manager or employee about your fall right away and ask for first aid. Be sure to mention that there was no wet floor sign. This puts Home Depot on notice and creates a record of the accident.
- Gather evidence – Take photos and videos of the wet floor, the lack of a warning sign, and any other hazards. Also, document your injuries so there’s proof of how the fall affected you.
- Get witness statements – If anyone saw what happened, ask for their contact information and a short statement about what they saw. Witnesses can confirm that there was no sign and help prove your case.
- See a doctor – Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries take time to show up, and medical records will be key evidence in your claim.
- Keep all records – Save your medical bills, receipts, and any messages from Home Depot or their insurance company. These documents show the financial impact of your injuries.
- Watch what you say – When speaking with Home Depot staff, insurance adjusters, or anyone else, stick to the facts. Avoid saying things like “I’m okay” or “It was my fault,” as they could be used against you.
Every case is different, but taking these steps will help you build a strong claim for damages. Still, in order to actually get these damages, you’re going to need to actually file a claim.
How Do You File a Claim After a Slip-and-Fall at Home Depot?
No matter what the circumstances are, a slip-and-fall at Home Depot can leave you with serious injuries, medical bills, and other losses. And when there was no wet floor sign to warn you, it makes it even more likely that you’ll be involved in an accident. If you’ve been hurt, there are two main ways to file your injury claim:
- Filing an insurance claim – Home Depot’s insurance company will likely handle your claim. An adjuster will review the accident and may offer a settlement. While this can be a quicker option, initial offers often don’t cover everything you need.
- Filing a lawsuit – If the insurance settlement isn’t enough to cover your expenses, you can file a lawsuit for more damages. Lawsuits take longer, but they often lead to higher payouts. Our legal team will handle the process so you can focus on healing.
Regardless of which option you choose, the goal is to get financial support for your losses. This can include things like:
- Medical bills
- Physical therapy and rehab costs
- Lost wages or reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Time is important. In California, you generally have two years from the date of your accident to file a claim. But the sooner you start, the stronger your case will be. To get the best outcome, you’ll need solid evidence showing that Home Depot was at fault, and solid proof that there was no wet floor sign. Even still, they’ll still try to minimize their liability in any way they can. That’s why it’s important to work with our experienced Home Depot slip-and-fall accident lawyers.
Should You Get a Lawyer?
Slipping and falling at Home Depot because they failed to put out a wet floor sign can leave you with painful injuries, medical bills, and lost wages. While dealing with the aftermath is stressful, the good news is that exploring your legal options typically won’t cost you anything upfront. That alone is a big reason to work with our team at Maison Law, but we do much more to help you through the process, including:
- Explaining your legal rights and options.
- Collecting critical evidence, such as surveillance footage and incident reports.
- Investigating Home Depot’s negligence, including their failure to place a wet floor sign.
- Negotiating with insurance companies to fight for a fair settlement.
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary to go after full damages.
With our experience handling slip-and-fall claims in California, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. To get started, contact us today for a free consultation.
