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Southaven Slip and Fall Injury Lawyer

Southaven Slip and Fall Injury Lawyers Ready to Help

If you have suffered injuries from a slip-and-fall accident, you need legal representation to make sure that you get repaid justly compensated for the injuries someone else’s negligence caused. Whether you slipped on a recently mopped floor in the grocery store, tripped on a poorly placed rug, or wiped out on an icy sidewalk leading to and from a place of business, seemingly simple accidents like these can lead to significant medical expenses, lost pay, and ongoing pain. 

At Stroud, Flechas & Dalton, we understand how a slip-and-fall injury can upend your whole life. Our Southaven personal injury attorneys guide clients through the complex legal process of slip-and-fall cases, offering compassionate and experienced counsel every step of the way. Let us handle the complexities of your slip-and-fall claim so you can focus on healing. While property owner liability is not automatic in every case, our firm is well-versed in Mississippi premises law.

Why Work With A Slip And Fall Attorney Near Me

Choosing Stroud, Flechas & Dalton for your slip-and-fall case means working with a legal team who is committed to securing your fair compensation. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a slip-and-fall injury can take, and we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process. We delve into the details to examine all potentially liable parties. When necessary, we may even consult with accident reconstruction specialists or other experts to provide a better picture of the circumstances surrounding the fall and what caused your injuries.

We will initiate the legal process once our investigation is complete by filing a formal claim, notifying the at-fault party, and signaling our readiness to advocate for your rights in negotiations vigorously and, if necessary, in court. Throughout the entire process, we prioritize clear and consistent communication. Our firm’s size allows us to work closely with each of our clients and understand what you are going through. We will then use this information to develop a strong demand for compensation and negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance company or legal representatives. We strive to keep you fully informed and empower you to make informed decisions about your case every step of the way.

We understand that slip-and-fall accidents can be incredibly stressful, and our goal is to alleviate your burden by providing clear, supportive legal guidance. We strive to secure the financial compensation you deserve and help you get your life back on track. If you’re seeking a knowledgeable and compassionate injury lawyer who will prioritize your well-being, contact Stroud, Flechas & Dalton for a free consultation. We are here to help.

Understanding Premises Liability Accidents With A Slip-And-Fall Lawyer Near Me

 

The stereotype of slipping and falling on a banana peel is the least of your concerns, but slip-and-fall accidents can happen virtually anywhere. When they result from a property owner’s negligence, the injured party may be able to file a premises liability claim. Premises liability law holds property owners responsible for maintaining safe conditions on their property for those who are legally present. 

 

The specific things a property owner does vary depending on the visitor’s status (invitee, licensee, or trespasser), but the general principle is to prevent foreseeable harm. An experienced attorney can help you meticulously review the details of your slip-and-fall case, including factors like property owner negligence. 

Private Residences

Homeowners generally have a duty of care for anyone on their property or in their home. This means if a homeowner is aware of a dangerous condition, such as a loose paver, cracked walkway, or uneven flooring concealed by a rug, they must warn guests about it. Simply being aware of the hazard is not enough; a reasonable effort to warn visitors is required. Homeowners should take reasonable steps to prevent hazards from developing, such as regularly inspecting walkways, repairing known defects, and ensuring adequate lighting. While there are situations under MS law where a homeowner may not be responsible for injuries to social guests, it is important to have the facts of the case analyzed by an attorney experienced in this area of the law.

 

Any features that could attract children, like pools, trampolines, or play structures, may require a homeowner to have a heightened duty of care. They must take precautions to prevent children from accessing these areas, even if they are technically trespassing. This is known as the attractive nuisance doctrine. For example, a pool must be adequately fenced and gated to prevent swimming pool accidents, and trampolines should have safety netting. The law recognizes that young children may not fully appreciate the dangers these features pose.

Businesses

Businesses that invite customers onto their premises have the highest duty of care. They must regularly inspect for hazards and take prompt action to maintain safe premises. This involves businesses implementing regular inspection schedules to identify and address potential dangers like spills, debris, and worn flooring. They also need to make sure that there is adequate lighting and that aisles are free from trip hazards such as merchandise corrals, pallets, or barricades.

 

When a hazard is discovered, it must be addressed promptly. This might involve drying up wet areas, placing warning signs, or cordoning off an area until repairs can be made. For example, a grocery store should have procedures for quickly cleaning up spills and placing “wet floor” signs to prevent customers from getting injured from slipping on recently mopped floors. They must also maintain safe walkways, parking lots, and other areas accessible to customers. Parking lots should be free of potholes, cracks, and debris and adequately lit. During inclement weather, businesses should take steps to prevent slip and fall accidents due to rain, snow, or ice, such as salting walkways and providing mats.

Rental Properties

Landlords must maintain the safety of their rental properties for tenants and guests, particularly concerning common areas. Maintaining common areas is a primary responsibility, requiring landlords to keep spaces like hallways, stairwells, lobbies, sidewalks, parking lots, and shared laundry rooms safe from trip hazards. This includes ensuring adequate lighting, especially during nighttime hours, to prevent trips and falls. Regular cleaning and maintenance prevent the accumulation of debris, spills, or other hazards that could lead to accidents. 

Landlords also must address any reported maintenance issues promptly. This means fixing broken handrails, repairing defective stairs or curbing that pose tripping hazards, and addressing leaks that could create slippery conditions. Landlords also have a duty to address weather-related hazards in common areas. This commonly involves removing snow and ice from walkways and parking lots. Consulting local slip and fall lawyers can help you understand the specific laws and codes in your area to see if your landlord is liable for your injuries after an accident.

Finally, landlords can be responsible for injuries caused by a pet owned by the renter.  (link to dogbite pages??)  If you are attacked by a dog owned by someone renting the residence, you may have a claim against the landlord for allowing a dangerous pet to remain on the premises.

Government Properties

Slips-and-falls may also occur on government-owned property, such as parks, government buildings, and public sidewalks. Filing a claim against a government entity is often more complex than a claim against a private individual or business. There are typically specific procedures and shorter deadlines that must be followed. If you were injured on government property, you need to consult with an attorney who has experience and knowledge regarding handling claims against government entities.

What If I Am Partially At Fault For My Accident?

Mississippi Code § 11-7-15 defines the pure comparative negligence system regulating shared fault. This law allows people who are partially responsible for an accident to still recover damages from other at-fault parties. However, the amount of compensation they can receive will be reduced by their individual percentage of fault. 

 

In a case with shared liability between the defendant(s) and the plaintiff(s), the court or jury will determine the total amount of damages suffered by each party involved in the accident. They will then assign a percentage of fault to each individual. The amount of damages a party can recover is then reduced by their assigned percentage of fault. This means that if you were in a slip-and-fall accident where you were determined by the court to be 20% responsible, your recoverable damages would be reduced by 20%.

Limited Time to File Your Southaven, MS Slip-and-Fall Claim

In Mississippi, the clock is ticking for slip-and-fall accident victims. According to Mississippi Code § 15-1-49, a three-year statute of limitations governs all personal injury claims, including slips and falls. This means you have only three years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit. Failing to do so could leave you solely responsible for medical expenses and other damages.

 

Beyond the legal deadline set by the statute of limitations, preserving crucial evidence to strengthen your claim is a compelling reason to initiate your slip-and-fall claim as soon as possible. Evidence is the cornerstone of any legal case, and in slip-and-fall accidents, it can be fleeting. Examples of this could include:

  • Witness Testimony: Memories fade quickly. The sooner eyewitnesses are interviewed, the more accurate and detailed their recollections will be. 
  • Incident Scene Conditions: Weather conditions, maintenance schedules, and other factors at the scene can change quickly. Photos and videos should be taken immediately after the incident to provide a crucial snapshot of the conditions at the time of the fall. This could include things like wet floors, inadequate lighting, or broken handrails.
  • Security Footage: Evidence like security camera footage in stores is often erased after a few weeks. These videos may be extremely helpful to prove liability.
  • Internal Company Records: Businesses may have internal incident reports or maintenance logs that are relevant to your case. Your slip and fall attorney can help you request important evidence like this based on your claim type.


A dedicated Southaven slip-and-fall attorney understands this urgency and works diligently to build a strong case while adhering to legal deadlines. They will guide you through the process, explaining the types of damages you can pursue—both economic and non-economic—and ensuring you understand your rights.

What Types of Compensation Can Slip and Fall Lawyers Near Me Help Me Claim?

Your slip-and-fall injury lawyer can help you pursue certain types of damages depending on whether you are filing an insurance claim or a slip-and-fall lawsuit. The two types of compensatory damages are economic and non-economic, and some extreme cases of negligence may also be awarded punitive damages.

Economic Damages in Southaven, MS

Economic damages are intended to cover your direct financial losses caused by your slip and fall injury. They are typically easier to calculate as they involve tangible receipts and documentation. Common economic damages include things like medical expenses, lost pay, property damage, and other out-of-pocket expenses. Some examples include:

  • Emergency room visits
  • Hospital stays
  • Doctor’s appointments
  • Surgery
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation
  • Medications
  • Medical equipment (crutches, wheelchairs, etc.)
  • Future medical care related to the injury
  • Past lost pay due to missed workdays
  • Future lost earning capacity 
  • Damaged personal belongings
  • Transportation costs for medical appointments
  • In-home care or assistance
  • Modifications to your home to accommodate your injuries

Non-Economic Damages in Southaven, MS

These damages are less tangible and aim to compensate you for your injuries’ pain, suffering, and other non-financial impacts. Calculating these damages can be more difficult, involving factors such as the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life. Common examples include:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Loss of companionship, intimacy, and support

Punitive Damages in Southaven, MS

While compensatory damages, such as the ones above, are intended to restore your position after a slip and fall incident by covering your losses, punitive damages are reserved for instances of truly reprehensible acts of negligence. Mississippi Code 11-1-65 establishes strict requirements for receiving these damages. You must provide compelling evidence that the responsible party’s actions demonstrated intentional malice, a high degree of negligence, a reckless indifference to the safety of others, or actual fraudulent behavior. Because of this demanding standard, punitive damages are granted only in exceptional cases.

Searching for Slip-and-Fall Attorneys Near Me? Contact Stroud, Flechas & Dalton for Your Southaven, MS Slip-And-Fall Accident

Slip and fall injuries disrupt your life and cause significant pain. If a property owner’s negligence caused your injuries, you have the right to seek compensation. Stroud, Flechas & Dalton offers experienced legal representation, leveraging our combined experience to fight for your rights and pursue the best possible outcome. Contact us today to get the help you need from knowledgeable and experienced local lawyers to help with your slip-and-fall injury claim.