A sudden slip and fall can leave you with serious injuries, unexpected medical bills, and time away from work. Whether it happened in a grocery store, on a snowy sidewalk, or at a friend’s home, knowing your legal rights in Wisconsin is the first step toward protecting your future.
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim. Here’s what you need to know about your rights and how a personal injury lawyer can help.
When Can You File a Slip and Fall Claim?
In Wisconsin, property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe premises. This includes removing hazards like snow and ice, cleaning up spills, and repairing broken stairs or uneven walkways. If a property owner fails to keep their property reasonably safe and you’re injured as a result, you may be able to file a slip and fall claim for compensation.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Some of the most common hazards that lead to slip and fall injuries in Wisconsin include:
- Icy or unshoveled sidewalks and parking lots
- Wet floors in grocery stores or malls
- Loose carpeting or uneven flooring
- Poor lighting in stairwells or hallways
- Clutter or debris in walkways
If your fall was caused by negligence and could have been prevented, you have the right to pursue a personal injury claim.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
A successful slip and fall claim may help you recover damages such as:
- Medical bills and future treatment costs
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Every case is different, and the value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the fall, and the impact on your life.
Why You Need a Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating the legal system after a slip and fall accident isn’t easy—especially when you’re injured. A skilled personal injury lawyer can help you:
- Investigate the scene and gather evidence
- Identify liable parties
- Deal with insurance companies
- File your claim within the legal time limits
- Maximize your compensation
Wisconsin follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning if you’re found partially at fault, your compensation can be reduced. Having a lawyer ensures your rights are protected throughout the process.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In Wisconsin, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, there are exceptions depending on who is at fault (e.g., a government entity), so it’s important to act quickly.
Get Help With Your Slip and Fall Claim
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a slip and fall, don’t wait. Contact an experienced Wisconsin personal injury lawyer to discuss your options. At Bykhovsky Law, we help injured individuals throughout Wisconsin get the compensation they deserve.
