Walking up or down the stairs should not be a frightening prospect because it is something that most people do more than once a day. However, falling down the stairs can be both terrifying and catastrophic. Stairwell accidents in Modesto can result in debilitating and even life-altering harm.
If you or your loved one fell while on someone else’s staircase, you might have sufficient grounds to pursue a legal claim for financial compensation. Our knowledgeable local slip and fall attorneys could review the details of your fall and help you understand your legal options and rights.
What Should You Do After Falling on the Stairs?
After falling down the stairs while visiting someone else’s home or business, taking certain steps can protect your health and well-being, as well as your future ability to bring a lawsuit.
Seek Medical Attention
You should get a full medical evaluation as soon as possible. A doctor could diagnose and treat your injuries. When you get your medical examination, you should tell the healthcare workers taking care of you where, how, and when you fell down the stairs and suffered your injuries. The records of your medical visit can connect your injuries to the accident. If you wait too long to see a doctor after your staircase fall, the property owner could argue that your injuries were unrelated to the fall.
Document the Scene
Take pictures of the staircase where you fell. If there was a broken step, a missing handrail, or inadequate lighting, get photographic proof. Also, take pictures of your injuries and continue to take pictures of your injuries as you heal. Additionally, take notes describing how the accident occurred and how you feel throughout your recuperation.
Tell the Property Owner About Your Fall
If your fall occurred on someone else’s property, tell the owner or business manager about your fall so they know what happened.
Get Contact Information
Get the information of everyone who saw the accident, as their testimony can strengthen your claim.
Our dedicated Modesto attorneys could help you gather the evidence you need to develop a robust claim for compensation after a staircase accident.
Frequent Causes of Falls in Stairwells
Several hazardous conditions can contribute to stairwell falls, many of which stem from poor maintenance or unsafe design. Some of the reasons that stairwell falls occur include:
- Broken steps
- Uneven treads
- Frayed carpeting
- Faulty construction
- Inadequate lighting
- Broken or missing handrails
- Debris or objects on the stairs
- Irregular step height or stair depth
- Slippery stairs due to water or spills
- Too many people on the stairs leading to a collapse, or people bumping into each other
To succeed in a legal claim against a property or business owner after a stairwell fall in Modesto, you need to demonstrate that the premises owner was somehow negligent in the upkeep of their property. Our attorneys could follow up with witnesses to learn what they observed and review security camera footage. We could also use our skills and knowledge to identify what caused you to fall and whether the property owner was legally responsible.
Talk to a Modesto Lawyer After a Staircase Accident
Stairwell accidents in Modesto can have devastating consequences. Sadly, many of these accidents could be avoided through regular property inspections, maintenance, and repairs.
If you sustained serious injuries after falling down the stairs, talk to our experienced lawyers to learn what we can do to help you. Our Heavy Hitters™ are ready to put our skills to work on your behalf.
Curtis Legal Group
N/a