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Slip and Fall Premises Liability in Wyoming

Premises Liability in Wyoming

Premises Liability Overview

Slip and fall accidents can occur without the owner of the premises being at fault. A fall may happen when a person is walking across a parking lot after a sudden thaw and re-freeze before anyone could reasonably take actions to clear the ice. However, in many slip and fall cases, there was someone with control over the risk who could have taken actions to prevent the accident and resulting injury and did not do so, whether the result of negligent or reckless actions.

Slip and fall cases generally fall into the category of premises liability and the nature of the property may dictate what sort of actions to avoid the accident would have been reasonable. There are three primary types of premises liability, which are:

  • Liability of business owners. – Many times, this is what a person thinks of when they envision a slip and fall accident case. When a business opens its doors and invites the general public into the premises, it has a duty to ensure that the property is maintained in a safe manner. This means that sidewalks must be kept free from debris, snow and ice, and other substances that could form a slip or trip hazard. In addition, the owner or manager of the premises must take steps to avoid slippery floors, which may include routine mopping during inclement weather, the use of anti-slip mats, the prompt clean-up of messes, and scheduled maintenance and cleaning on off-hours, with clearly marked warning signs notifying visitors of the potential hazard. If there is an accident and the owner or manager of the business failed to act in a reasonable manner with the maintenance and upkeep of a property, then the business or owner likely will be responsible for the harm that was done;
  • Liability of landlords. – When a building is rented out to tenants, there are obligations to provide safe apartments without hidden hazards, but the main focus on landlord liability usually is on common areas and the maintenance of the area outside the buildings. Floors must be maintained in such a manner as to avoid missing tiles, raised carpet or loose boards. Snow and ice must be removed from outside areas promptly. Lighting should be sufficient to provide individuals with a clear view of the surroundings. In addition, the building must have been constructed in accordance with safety codes. A stairwell where the rise and run of the stairs is not in compliance could result in a serious fall. In addition, a loose railing might cause a person to lose his footing and take a perilous fall. An experienced personal injury attorney can explain the different circumstances where a landlord could be liable for a tenant or visitor’s injuries; and
  • Liability of homeowners. – It is the responsibility of the homeowner to maintain the residence and surrounding property in a safe manner. When visitors are injured because the homeowner breached his duty, he is liable for the resulting harm. This often leads to a lot of internal conflict for individuals who were harmed while in the home of a friend or family member. However, the long-term harm from a slip or trip and fall can be devastating and it is critical to get the compensation necessary to pay for ongoing medical care, replace lost wages, and address pain and suffering. In many cases, the homeowner’s insurance will pay the claim.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a slip and fall accident, a consultation should be arranged with an experienced Wyoming personal injury attorney at Arnold Law Offices for three reasons. First, physical evidence is lost, destroyed or changes with time. Second, witnesses leave the state and their recollections fade with time. Third, the Wyoming Statute of Limitations will, at some point, take effect and prevent the filing of a lawsuit. The Statue of Limitations is often four years, but it can be as short as two years in some cases. Moving forward with your case at an early time means that you receive a monetary recovery that sooner to help you pay bills and enjoy a quality of living as close as possible to the one experienced before the accident.

Wyoming Attorney Advocates for Those Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident

            If you have been injured in a slip and fall, or another type of accident, contact the Wyoming Personal Injury Law Firm of Arnold Law Offices, PLLC, to schedule an initial consultation. Arnold Law Offices serves all of Wyoming, including Uinta, Sweetwater, Lincoln, Carbon, Teton, Fremont, Natrona and Laramie Counties. Call (888) 760-4357 or (307) 789-7887 to make an appointment.