Two main factors determine how severe injuries caused by a slip or trip are likely to be: how far you fall after slipping and what kind of surface you land on. Unfortunately, stairwell accidents in Baytown are the worst in both cases, as they generally involve a lengthy descent down a steep incline with multiple impacts against wood, concrete, stone, or even metal.
Also, filing a civil suit over injuries you suffered can be much trickier than you might expect, especially if you are not familiar with premises liability law in the state. Fortunately, you could have support from the knowledgeable slip and fall lawyers at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, who could provide compassionate, custom-tailored support through every stage of your legal proceedings.
What Kinds of Stairwell Hazards Could Landowners Be Liable For?
Lawsuits over Baytown stairwell injuries can be complex compared to many other property liability claims. This is because even properly maintained stairwells are, to some extent, inherently dangerous. When suing over this type of incident, it is particularly important to establish that you were hurt in specific ways and that your accident likely would not have happened at all were if not for a specific defect in those stairs that their owner should have addressed.
Examples of legally actionable negligence by a landowner, which could potentially justify a lawsuit along these lines, include:
- Cracked, loose, or broken steps
- Large gaps between steps
- Uneven riser heights
- Missing or broken handrails
- Loose or frayed carpeting on top of individual steps
- No anti-slip material on steps that could become slippery when wet
- Insufficient lighting, particularly in outdoor spaces
If you have questions about whether your circumstances could give rise to a civil claim, one of our personal injury attorneys could provide the answers you need during an initial consultation.
Seeking Fair Compensation Within Filing Time Limits
A comprehensive lawsuit or settlement over a stairwell accident inside a Baytown business or residential complex can incorporate both the economic and non-economic consequences of that accident, including medical bills, lost work income, personal property damage, and various forms of physical and psychological pain. You can also seek recovery in advance for any expected future losses that your injuries will cause, such as the costs of long-term rehabilitative therapy.
No matter how long your injuries will continue to negatively impact your life, Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003 generally gives you a maximum of two years to file suit after you get hurt. This is why contacting skilled legal counsel should be a top priority after this kind of accident.
Call a Baytown Attorney to Learn More About Stairwell Accident Claims
Falling while going down—or up—a set of stairs can quickly lead to very serious injuries, ranging from soft-tissue damage, such as torn ligaments and muscles, to broken bones, traumatic brain damage, and even permanently paralyzing spinal cord trauma. However, regardless of which injuries stairwell accidents in Baytown cause, you may struggle a lot more than necessary to get paid what you deserve for your damages unless you have help.
Our team at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris is ready to proactively enforce your rights and fight for your best interests. Call today to discuss your legal options.
