Slip and fall accidents are common in Milwaukee and can lead to severe injuries and costly medical bills. Knowing how the settlement process works helps you secure fair compensation after your accident. This guide offers practical advice to support your claim step by step.
What is a Slip & Fall Accident?
A slip and fall accident happens when you slip or trip on someone else’s property due to unsafe conditions. Accidents commonly occur on icy sidewalks, slippery store floors, or poorly lit staircases. Typical hazards include spilled liquids, uneven flooring, poor lighting, or cluttered walkways.
Premises Liability Explained
In Milwaukee, property owners must ensure their premises are safe for visitors. Premises liability law states that property owners are responsible if they fail to correct hazards promptly. If an owner’s negligence caused your fall, you could be eligible for financial compensation.
How to Prove Negligence in Your Case
To win a slip and fall claim, you must clearly show the property owner was negligent. You need to prove:
- A hazardous condition existed.
- The owner knew or should have known about this danger.
- The owner failed to remove or warn about the hazard.
- Your injury directly resulted from the unsafe condition.
Supporting your claim with strong evidence like photos, witness statements, and accident reports is essential.
Wisconsin’s Comparative Negligence Law
Wisconsin uses a modified comparative negligence system. If you contributed partially to the accident, your settlement might decrease proportionately. For example, if you’re 30% at fault, your compensation reduces by 30%. If you’re more than 50% responsible, you typically cannot receive any compensation.
What Affects Your Settlement Amount?
Several factors determine the compensation amount in slip and fall claims:
- Severity of Your Injuries: Serious injuries usually result in higher settlements because of increased medical expenses.
- Medical Bills: Both past and future medical treatment costs are included in your compensation.
- Lost Income: Compensation for lost wages or reduced earning potential due to injuries.
- Pain and Emotional Distress: Non-economic damages for physical pain and mental suffering.
- Degree of Fault: Strong evidence showing owner negligence boosts your chances of a higher settlement.
Every case is unique, so settlement amounts vary based on these factors.
Typical Settlement Values in Milwaukee
Slip and fall settlements in Milwaukee typically range from $15,000 to $45,000 for moderate injuries. However, severe injuries or permanent disabilities can lead to significantly higher settlements, sometimes into six or seven figures. The specifics of your case ultimately determine your settlement value.
Steps After a Slip & Fall Accident
Following these practical steps right after your fall greatly strengthens your claim:
- Get Immediate Medical Care: Always seek medical treatment and document injuries thoroughly.
- Document Everything: Photograph the accident scene, including the hazard and surrounding conditions.
- Obtain Witness Information: Collect names and contact details of anyone who saw your accident.
- File a Formal Report: Notify the property owner or manager immediately, and ensure they document your report.
- Save Physical Evidence: Keep clothing and shoes worn during your accident for evidence purposes.
- Seek Legal Advice: Quickly consult an experienced attorney to protect your rights and navigate your claim.
Taking these steps increases your chances of securing fair compensation.
Wisconsin’s Deadline for Filing Claims
In Wisconsin, you have three years from the date of your slip and fall accident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline means losing your right to compensation. If your injury happened on government-owned property, you must formally notify the agency within 120 days after the incident.
Why Hiring an Attorney Matters
Slip and fall cases can be legally complicated. An experienced attorney helps by:
- Evaluating your claim’s potential.
- Gathering and preserving important evidence.
- Negotiating effectively with insurance companies.
- Representing your interests in court, if required.
Legal support significantly improves your likelihood of receiving fair compensation.
Contact a Milwaukee Fall Accident Lawyer
If you suffered injuries from a slip and fall accident in Milwaukee, contact the experienced attorneys at Sobo & Sobo. They offer personalized guidance and will aggressively pursue your claim to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Schedule your free consultation today by calling 855-468-7626.
