While slip-and-fall accidents in California grocery stores vary on a case-by-case basis, your damages will largely determine what your claim is worth. These items can be calculated based on your economic damages and non-economic damages, which include:
- Present and future medical expenses such as surgery and physical therapy
- Loss of income from being unable to work, as well as the reduction in your earning capacity if you’re unable to return to work
- Cost of living with your injury, such as making your home disability accessible, purchasing a wheelchair or crutches, hiring a nurse or housekeeper
- Damage done to your property during the accident
- Pain and suffering caused by your injuries
- Stress, anxiety, and trauma due to the nature of your accident
The more severe your damages are, the more compensation you will typically receive. However, a California slip-and-fall attorney can help you understand the value of your case.
How Much is a Fall in a California Grocery Store Worth?
The severity of your injuries will account for a majority of your overall compensation if you have a slip-and-fall claim against a grocery store. While there are other determining factors, the following personal injury classifications can give you a rough estimate of what your case is worth.
- Minor injuries: Approximately $1,500 – $15,000 – minor injuries are considered sprains, strains, and minor cuts and bruises.
- Moderate injuries: Approximately $15,000 – $100,000 – moderate injuries are considered fractures, herniated discs, and torn ligaments.
- Severe injuries: Approximately $100,000 – $1,000,000+ – paralysis and death can quickly exceed settlement amounts of around $1,000,000 or more.
It is important to remember that these numbers are estimates and not guarantees. A slip-and-fall attorney will help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights to ultimately determine the best course of action to pursue fair and just compensation.
Common Causes of Slip-and-Fall Accidents in California
Slip-and-fall accidents usually occur when a person, or business, has created a hazardous condition from a failure to provide a “duty of care” to others. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, slip-and-fall accidents are the third leading cause of unintentional death in the United States. The most common causes of slip-and-fall accidents include:
- Uneven flooring
- Missing stair railings
- Rotten steps
- Loose carpeting
- Wet walkways or aisles
- Icy sidewalks
- Exposed wires
Victims of slip-and-fall accidents who contact an experienced slip-and-fall attorney are more likely to reach a successful settlement than those who did not. An insurance adjuster’s job is to downplay your injury and how it has impacted your life. An attorney holds the insurance company liable, so they must take into account the financial, physical, and mental damages of your incident.
When Should I Hire a California Slip-and-Fall Lawyer?
When it comes to slip-and-fall accidents, a lawyer can help you understand your legal options, as well as protect your right to compensation. If you’ve suffered injuries from a slip-and-fall accident, it is recommended to consult with an attorney, even if you were partially at fault for the accident. With an attorney on your side, they will:
- Identify All Liable Parties: Slip-and-fall accidents in a grocery store can involve multiple “at-fault” parties, which may include:
- A property owner
- A business owner
- A contractor or subcontractor
- Follow Proper Legal Procedures: An experienced attorney understands the complexities of suing liable parties and the specific legal rules that must be followed. Having your lawsuit properly filed and the details of your situation perfectly outlined for the insurance adjuster will let the defense know you are aware of your rights and are prepared to exercise them through an attorney.
- Prepare for Litigation: An attorney will expedite the litigation process if no acceptable offer is made. They will prepare you for trial, handle all legal proceedings, and represent you in court.
- Allow you to focus on Recovery: Hiring a well-practiced attorney will allow you to recover, while they deal with the legal side of your case for you. Not only will this give you a better chance at compensation, but it will alleviate your stress and give you peace of mind while recovering from your injuries.
Contact a California Slip-and-Fall Lawyer
You only get one chance at fair compensation for all you’ve gone through. So, it is important that you partner with a trusted personal injury law firm that takes the time to understand both the factual and legal sides of your case. If you’ve lost confidence in your current representation, or are seeking legal advice for the first time, contact Maison Law today for a free consultation and case evaluation. There are no upfront fees for our services and you will not be charged unless we win your case.
