A trip and fall can cause serious injuries, which is why it’s important for property owners to make sure that they keep their establishments free from hazards. Unfortunately, not everyone does a good job of this, and it’s not uncommon for people to get hurt due to exposed wires or cables. If this sounds like something that happened to you or a loved one, you may be owed compensation. Our Westchester County hotel accident attorneys can help you evaluate your legal options.
What Can I Do After I Trip on Exposed Wires or Cables?
Whether you think that you have serious injuries or you feel fine, you should start building a case right away if you have tripped over exposed wires or cables. Whether you are at a store, a hotel, or a concert venue, you should:
- Take pictures of the hazard
- Report the incident to management and fill out an incident report if it’s available
- Talk to any witnesses and get their contact information
- Avoid making any statements that could be seen as admitting fault
- See a doctor as soon as possible
Even if you don’t think that you’re injured, see a doctor. Some injuries can make themselves known later. Seeing a doctor right away can help you get a proper diagnosis and medical records that can be used as evidence if you pursue damages.
Who is Liable for Injuries Caused By Exposed Wires or Cables?
This can occasionally be tricky. The owner of the property is usually responsible for a hazard like exposed wires or cables, but sometimes they will try to find another party to blame. Maybe they had utility workers in and they didn’t clean up after themselves. Perhaps there was construction work going on and the contractors didn’t take the proper safety precautions. A lawyer can help you get to the bottom of things and find the liable party.
Can I Sue For Damages?
If you were injured and you believe that the property owner or another party was at fault, you can sue for damages. Your compensation should help make up for things like:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Loss of enjoyment
- Pain and suffering
How Long Do I Have to Take Legal Action?
Acting quickly is usually in your best interest in a case like this. New York gives accident victims three years to sue for damages. This can seem like a long time, but you would be surprised at how quickly the days can pass by as you recover and get back into your normal routine. Take action before the statute of limitations expires or your case is likely to be tossed out.
It’s also important to note that the rules may differ if you fall on a government-owned property. If a government entity is liable, then you have to submit a “notice of claim” before you sue and the window for submitting the necessary paperwork is short.
Schedule a Free Case Consultation
If you want to learn more about what an experienced lawyer can do for you, contact Hausman & Pendzick. We can schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, so reach out to our legal team today.