An instant – a slip and fall can happen in a flash. One moment you’re standing strong and the next you’re flat on the ground, and probably also getting a hospital bill sometime in your future depending on your injuries. If you slipped and fell at a retail store or parking lot, this has happened to you, and it happens more than you want to think about. Slipping and falling can happen for more reasons that we are aware of; wet areas, bad lighting, uneven pavement. all these horrible but common occurrences can lead to catastrophic injuries! If you are feeling sorry for yourself or wondering what to do next, don’t worry; you are not alone, however you will need to act quickly. You should be able to get the medical treatments that you need with an experienced Kansas City personal injury attorney and maybe some compensation for your injuries.
What Causes These Falls?
Falls in public places don’t just “happen.” They often stem from poor upkeep or careless actions. Here are common causes:
- Spills not cleaned up
- Ice or snow left untreated
- Cracks or holes in the pavement
- Loose mats or rugs
- Poor lighting in walkways
- Broken handrails or steps
Property owners must keep their space safe. When they don’t, people get hurt.
What Injuries Can Happen?
Some falls cause minor bruises. Others lead to serious harm. You could face:
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Spinal injuries
- Sprains and strains
- Cuts and deep bruises
- Lasting pain or mobility issues
You might miss work. Medical bills can pile up. Life may never feel the same.
See also: Facial recognition technology is being used more often in our daily activities.
Who’s At Fault?
Property owners must ensure that their properties are safe, whether its stores, malls, restaurants, or parking lot owners. This obligation is referred to as “premises liability”. They can be at fault if they knew the danger and failed to remedy it. They can be liable even if they did not know of the danger, but should have known.
What To Do Immediately After a Fall?
Take these steps to protect yourself and your claim:
- Report the fall
Tell the store manager or property owner. Ask them to write an incident report. - Take photos
Snap pictures of where you fell. Show what caused the fall. - Get witness info
If someone saw your fall, get their name and number. - Seek medical care
Even if you feel okay, get checked. Some injuries don’t show right away. - Call a Kansas City injury lawyer
Don’t wait. A lawyer will guide you and protect your rights.
What Can a Lawyer Do for You?
You don’t have to fight this alone. A local injury lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident
- Gather proof like photos, reports, and witness info
- Handle calls with the store or their insurance
- File claims and legal papers
- Fight for a fair settlement
- Go to court if needed
Most lawyers work on a “no win, no fee” basis. You don’t pay unless they win your case.
Don’t Talk to Insurance Without a Lawyer
After your fall, the store’s insurance company may call you. They might act friendly. Don’t be fooled. Their goal? Pay you as little as possible — or nothing at all. They may twist your words. They may offer a lowball deal fast. Don’t agree to anything. Don’t sign forms. Call a lawyer first.
How Long Do You Have to File?
In Kansas and Missouri, the time to file a claim is limited. This time is called the “statute of limitations.”
- In Kansas, you usually have 2 years
- In Missouri, you usually have 5 years
But don’t wait. The longer you delay, the harder your case gets.
Why Choose a Kansas City Injury Lawyer?
Laws vary by state. Local lawyers know the courts, judges, and insurance tactics in your area that helps in the legal process.
A Kansas City lawyer will understand:
- State slip-and-fall laws
- Local property codes
- Jury trends in your county
- How weather plays a role (ice, snow, rain)
They’ll build the strongest case for your location.
Can You Still Sue If You Were Partly at Fault?
Yes. In many cases, even if you were a little at fault, you can still get paid. Missouri uses a rule called pure comparative fault. If you were 20% at fault, you can still collect 80% of your damages. Kansas uses modified comparative fault. If you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still win a reduced amount. Let a lawyer review your case. Don’t assume you have no chance.
Real Story: “I Just Slipped on Rainwater”
Lena was walking into a store. The tile floor by the door was wet from the rain. No warning sign. No mat. She slipped and hit her hip. At first, she felt sore but okay. Two days later, she couldn’t walk without pain. A doctor found a hairline fracture. The store’s insurance said she “should have been careful.” Her lawyer found proof they’d had past complaints about wet floors. Lena got a fair settlement. Her bills were paid. She could focus on healing.
What If It Happened in a Parking Lot?
Parking lots can be dangerous, too. You may trip over:
- Uneven blacktop
- Potholes
- Snow piles
- Oil spills
- Loose gravel
Owners must keep these areas safe, just like indoors. Injuries from parking lot falls often qualify for claims too.
What Is Your Case Worth?
Each case is different. Some things that affect value:
- Severity of injury
- Time off work
- Medical costs
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term effects
A lawyer can estimate your case’s value after reviewing the facts. Don’t guess — get real advice.
What Will It Cost to Hire a Lawyer?
Most injury lawyers in Kansas City offer a free consultation.
They also work on contingency. That means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- They get paid only if you win
- Their fee is a set percentage of your settlement
This lets you get legal help without risk.
You Deserve Fair Treatment
A fall can wreck your plans, your health, and your peace of mind. Don’t suffer in silence. Don’t let a store or parking lot off the hook. Call a skilled Kansas City Slip And Fall Accident Lawyer. Find out your rights. Get help to move forward.
FAQs: Fell in a Store or Parking Lot
1. Can I sue if I didn’t go to the hospital right away?
Yes. You can sue. But please go to your doctor as soon as possible for your case.
2. What if I fell in flip flops or heels?
That is not always detrimental to your case. Property owners must maintain their properties in a safe condition no matter what the circumstances.
3. Do I need a lawyer if the store admits liability and says they are going to pay my bills?
Yes. Stores rarely, if ever, pay you what you deserve. The lawyer will make sure you get paid a reasonable amount.
4. How long does a slip and fall case take?
That depends. Some cases are done in a few weeks while others take months or longer. Your lawyer will tell you what to expect.
5. Can I get money if I don’t break anything?
Yes. Soft tissue injuries, pain, and loss of work all count too. A lawyer can explain how they can still help.
