A slip or trip and fall on level ground can sometimes lead to very serious injuries, especially if you land on a particularly unforgiving surface or come down at an awkward angle. Slipping or tripping inside a stairwell, however, is even more likely to result in significant physical trauma. You may fall down several feet or more than one building story before coming to a stop.
As dangerous as they can be, stairwell accidents in Lowell are far from simple matters when it comes to seeking civil recovery for the harm you have suffered. Having help from a knowledgeable slip and fall attorney from our team at the Law Offices of David W. Holub could make the difference between getting fair compensation for your damages or getting paid nothing at all.
Common Causes of Action for Stairwell Injury Claims
It is important to understand that a fall on someone else’s stairs in Lowell is not, by itself, enough to justify litigation. In addition to proving you were hurt on another person’s property, you need to establish that you were hurt specifically because the property owner failed to fulfill the duty of care they owed you. Owners are required by law to keep their property in good condition, warn people about known hazards, and fix those hazards within a reasonable timeframe after discovering them. If they fail to do so, they could be held liable for your injuries.
Most civil claims over accidents in stairwells revolve around structural flaws, such as loose or broken railings, uneven risers, or a lack of non-slip coverings over steps. However, it may also be possible to sue over injuries caused by safety issues such as a lack of lighting in a stairwell, particularly if that stairwell is outdoors.
What Damages Could Be Available After a Stairwell Accident?
No amount of compensation can undo the harm you have suffered. The purpose of filing suit over a Lowell stairwell injury is to minimize the long-term negative effects that your injuries will cause you in the future. With that in mind, compensable damages in a typical stairwell accident claim may include:
- Lost enjoyment of life
- Mental trauma and anguish
- Physical pain and suffering
- Lost work income, benefits, and earning capacity
- Disability-related expenses for items such as wheelchairs and home modifications, if necessary
- Emergency medical treatment costs, as well as expected future costs of rehabilitative or maintenance care
Each case is different, so you should discuss what losses to include in your claim with one of our lawyers during a confidential consultation.
Contact a Lowell Attorney for Help With Your Stairwell Accident Lawsuit
Falling down—or even up—the stairs on someone else’s property can be embarrassing at best and potentially life-changing at worst. Holding a negligent landowner liable for failing to maintain their stairs in a safe condition for visitors can require a great amount of legal experience and expertise. If you try to pursue a claim on your own, you may be unsatisfied with the outcome.
By working with a slip and fall lawyer from the Law Offices of David W. Holub, you could give yourself the best possible chance of securing the compensation you need without putting too much additional stress on yourself or your family. We know how to navigate the legal aspects of stairwell accidents in Lowell. Contact us today to discuss your options and let us help you pursue justice.