What to Know About Slip and Fall Accidents in Virginia

Falling can be scary. Getting hurt by a slip and fall accident can be even more difficult. If you fall and get injured in Virginia, there are some essential things you need to know. This article will explain them. 

Our goal is to give you information - not legal advice. The people or companies involved in your fall might have lawyers. You should talk to your lawyer. They can help protect your rights and help get you full and fair money damages.

Our team of personal injury attorneys is resourceful, experienced, and knowledgeable regarding your rights. To learn more about how we can help you, call Altizer Law today at 540.345.2000. 

Five Key Steps After You Slip and Fall

There are five must-do things after you fall and get hurt:

• Get Medical Care Quickly

• Report the Accident The Right Way

• Secure the Accident Scene 

• Be Cautious When Talking and Signing Papers

• Call a Personal Injury Lawyer

Let's explore each of these:

Get Medical Care Quickly

Your health comes first. See a doctor right away, even if you feel okay. Some injuries hide or take a while to show up. The doctor will check you out thoroughly and keep official medical records. This provides proof of your injuries for your case.

Report the Slip and Fall Accident The Right Way  

Tell the person in charge of the property where you fell. Ask them to make an official report about the incident. Get a copy of the report for yourself. This record will be a crucial piece of evidence later on. 

Secure the Accident Scene

Evidence at the scene can show why and how your fall happened. Take pictures from all angles of what caused you to slip or trip. Get shots of wet floors, uneven pavement, lousy lighting, debris, etc. Also, collect the contact details of anyone who saw your fall. Witness accounts strengthen your case.  

Be Cautious When Talking and Signing Papers

You need to report the basics of what happened. But don’t make detailed statements or say it was your fault. Wait to give your complete account until you talk to your lawyer first. Also, read carefully before signing any documents. It's best not to sign anything about the incident without your lawyer reviewing it first.   

Call a Virginia Personal Injury Lawyer  

Connecting with a personal injury lawyer early on is vital. Look for an experienced slip-and-fall attorney in Virginia. Many work on “contingency,” meaning no money upfront, and you pay them only if they get you a settlement. A good lawyer advises you on the next steps and protects your rights.  

Critical Legal Issues in Virginia 

As in all states, there are specific laws in Virginia that apply to injury cases like slip and falls: 

• Virginia Personal Injury Statute of Limitations - The legal deadline to file a slip and fall injury lawsuit is two years from the incident date.  

• Contributory Negligence - Virginia follows this rule, meaning even 1% of fault by you could prevent you from recovering damages. But working with a seasoned Virginia slip and fall lawyer maximizes your chances of a successful outcome.

• Damages - Money won in these cases covers hard costs like medical bills, lost wages, extra for pain/suffering, and sometimes punitive damages. Experienced lawyers make sure clients are fully compensated.

What Money Damages Can I Receive? 

If someone else was negligent and caused your fall injuries, you can make a Virginia slip and fall legal claim for “damages.” Damages compensate you for multiple losses:

• Medical expenses to treat your injuries now and into the future

• Lost wages if you missed work time while recovering  

• “Pain and suffering” money awarded for physical and emotional trauma 

• Potential extra “punitive” damages if the property owner's actions were grossly irresponsible or reckless 

An accomplished personal injury lawyer will fight to get you full and fair monetary damages tailored to your fall injuries' unique losses and impacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let's go over common questions people have about Virginia slip and fall incidents:  

1. What should I do immediately after a slip and fall in Virginia? 

2. Tend to your injuries and see a doctor immediately  

3. Ask the property manager to make an official incident report 

4. Take photos documenting slip/trip hazards  

5. Get witness contact information

6. Call an experienced Virginia personal injury attorney for guidance  

Taking quick action secures helpful evidence and protects your legal rights.

2. How Long Does It Take to File a Slip-and-Fall Lawsuit in Virginia?   

You have two years from the fall date to file a lawsuit. Evidence can fade over time from weather and people's fading memories. It’s wise to consult a lawyer soon after the incident to build the most substantial injury claim before the clock runs out.

3. Can I Still Claim Damages If I Was Partially At Fault For The Accident?   

Virginia follows "contributory negligence," meaning you may lose the right to monetary damages if you share any fault for your fall. The exact percentage of fault gets debated extensively between opposing lawyers. Given the nuances of your particular case, an attorney well-versed in these legal fights can best steer you toward maximum recovery.  

4. What Kind Of Compensation Can I Expect From A Slip And Fall Lawsuit?  

Every case has unique losses from medical bills, lost income, and pain/distress. Plus, extra punitive damages are possible if gross negligence causes the fall. Experienced lawyers tally and document the full impacts to demand six and seven-figure settlements in severe cases. In negotiations and court, if necessary, they fight relentlessly to win clients full financial restitution.

5. Why Should I Choose Altizer Law For My Slip And Fall Case?  

The lawyers at Altizer Law stand out by their skill set in Virginia injury law. Their proven experience unlocks maximum case values for injured clients. Altizer Law goes beyond expectations with responsive communication and compassionate counsel. Their sharp, strategic approach delivers results while reducing clients’ burden.  

Summing Up Key Points

Let’s review what we covered:  

• Act quickly after falls to get medical aid, document evidence, and call a lawyer 

• Understand laws in Virginia that apply to injury claims

• Realize all the types of monetary damages you may recover  

• Choose a law firm like Altizer Law, skilled at winning cases and caring for clients

A severe fall can turn life upside down physically, emotionally, and financially. An experienced personal injury attorney levels the playing field. Knowledge and preparation empower injured people to claim rightful compensation and build their best future.

Why Altizer Law is a Wise Choice for Your Personal Injury Attorney 

Altizer Law has a proven record of success with slip and fall cases in Virginia. Their lawyers understand Virginia's injury laws inside and out. They dig deep to investigate evidence to prove who is at fault. At the negotiation table and in court, they boldly demand maximum monetary damages for clients. Altizer Law delivers intelligent, strategic, and compassionate legal counsel every step of the way.

Altizer Law has navigated multiple personal injury claims throughout the years and helped our clients win their settlements. Call our team of experienced and results-driven lawyers today at 540.345.2000 for your free consultation.