Slip-and-fall accidents can occur when the appropriate parties fail to uphold their legal obligation to maintain a safe environment. These accidents can happen when property owners fail to remedy dangerous property conditions in a timely manner. If you have been seriously injured in a slip-and-fall accident in New Jersey, it’s important to be aware of the steps you need to take to protect your legal rights. Additionally, it’s crucial to understand the potential mistakes that could impact your ability to receive the funds you are entitled to for your damages. Please continue reading to learn the mistakes you should avoid after a slip and fall accident and how our qualified Essex County Slip and Fall Accident Attorneys can help you fight for the justice you deserve.
What Should I Avoid Doing After a Slip and Fall Accident in New Jersey?
If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident in New Jersey, knowing what not to do to preserve your legal rights and maximize your potential compensation is essential. For a successful claim, you must satisfy the burden of proof. This means you must prove that the other party’s actions were the direct cause of your injuries and damages. Evidence plays a critical role in your ability to prove negligence. Many victims make the mistake of neglecting to gather evidence at the scene. It’s essential to take photographs or videos of the hazardous condition that caused the accident and collect the contact information of any witnesses. These accounts may prove invaluable in supporting your claim.
New Jersey is a modified comparative negligence state. This means that a victim’s contributory negligence must be less than the defendant’s negligence to collect damages. Essentially, they must be found no more than 50% at fault for the cause of the accident. They will face the absolute bar of recovery if they are more than 50% responsible. However, if they are less, their compensation is reduced by their degree of fault for the accident. That said, gathering as much evidence as possible is crucial to protect your legal rights to compensation.
Should I Consult an Attorney?
Consulting a seasoned attorney is one of the most critical steps after a slip-and-fall accident. Navigating the legal process to obtain compensation for damages can be tricky. Collaborating with an Essex County slip and fall attorney will maximize your chances of achieving favorable results. They will examine your case, gather evidence, and effectively represent your interests at trial if necessary. If you fail to consult an attorney, you risk your rights and compensation.
At The Law Offices of Christopher T. Howell, Esq., we are prepared to help you fight for the compensation you deserve and need to get your life back on track. Contact our firm today to discuss your case.
