Boulder Slip and Fall Lawyer

Slip and fall accidents happen more often than people realize. One misstep on a wet floor, an uneven sidewalk, or a poorly lit stairwell can lead to serious injuries. When property owners neglect to maintain safe conditions, accidents happen, and innocent people can be harmed. If you’ve been injured due to hazardous property conditions, a skilled Boulder slip and fall lawyer can help you seek the compensation you deserve.

At The Wilhite Law Firm, we stand up for injured victims and hold negligent property owners accountable. Our legal team will fight for fair and timely compensation so that you can focus on healing. If you need legal guidance after a fall, contact us today to discuss your case.

Premises Liability in Colorado

Property owners have a responsibility to keep their premises safe. This legal obligation is mandated by Colorado’s premises liability laws and applies to businesses, landlords, and even government entities. If you get injured due to a hazardous condition on someone else’s property, the owner may be liable for the accident.

To file a premises liability claim successfully, you must have evidence that shows that the owner or manager of the property neglected to fix a known hazard or failed to take reasonable steps to prevent injuries. This could mean ignoring a wet floor, failing to repair broken steps, or neglecting to clear ice from a walkway. If an owner knew or should have known about a dangerous condition but did nothing to remedy the condition or warn you about it, they could be liable for your injuries.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

There are several reasons why slip and fall accidents may happen, including:

• Slippery Floor Surfaces – Spilled drinks, leaks, or recently mopped floors can be dangerous if they aren’t properly marked with warning signs.
• Uneven Sidewalks and Pavement – Cracks, potholes, and raised sections of pavement create tripping hazards that should be repaired immediately.
• Poor Lighting in Stairwells and Walkways – If a stairwell or hallway is too dark, it makes it hard to see obstacles or elevation changes, increasing the chances of a fall.
• Loose Carpets and Flooring Hazards – Rugs that are not secured or floorboards that are uneven can cause someone to lose their balance unexpectedly.
• Icy or Unmaintained Parking Lots – Snow and ice buildup should be removed to prevent slippery conditions in public and private parking areas.

Where Slip and Fall Accidents Commonly Occur

Slip and fall accidents can occur anywhere. However, there are some locations that pose a greater risk due to heavy foot traffic and poor maintenance. These include:

• Grocery Stores and Shopping Malls – Spilled liquids, cluttered aisles, and slick entryways can make these places dangerous for customers.
• Restaurants and Bars – Food and drink spills happen often, and it’s the staff’s responsibility to clean them up promptly to prevent injuries.
• Apartment Complexes and Rental Properties – Landlords must ensure staircases, hallways, and common areas are safe for tenants and visitors.
• Hotels and Resorts – Guests can slip on wet bathroom floors, loose carpeting, or neglected walkways around pools and lobbies.
• Public Sidewalks and Government Properties – If a city fails to maintain its sidewalks or public spaces, it may be responsible for injuries caused by unsafe conditions.

Proving Negligence in a Slip and Fall Case

To succeed in a slip and fall lawsuit, you must prove that the property owner neglected to take reasonable measures to maintain a safe environment and that failure caused you to be injured. Some of the things you need to prove include:

Establishing That the Property Owner Knew About the Hazard

You must prove that the property owner was aware or should have been aware of the hazardous condition that led to your fall. This could mean proving they were aware of a spill, uneven flooring, or poor lighting but didn’t take action. Evidence such as maintenance records, past complaints, or witness testimony can help demonstrate that the hazard wasn’t just a sudden, unavoidable accident.

Proving That Reasonable Steps Weren’t Taken to Fix the Problem

Property owners have a legal duty to maintain an environment that is safe for visitors. If they knew about a hazard, they should have fixed it within a reasonable amount of time or at least put up warnings, like a “wet floor” sign. If they ignored the danger or delayed repairs, they may be held responsible for any injuries that occurred because of their negligence.

Demonstrating How the Hazard Directly Caused Your Injury

Even if a dangerous condition existed, you still need to demonstrate that it directly caused your fall and injuries. Medical records, surveillance footage, and witness statements can help link your injuries to the accident. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.

Common Injuries Resulting From Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents may result in severe injuries that impact daily life. Common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Sprains and strains
• Head injuries and concussions
• Back and spinal cord injuries
• Cuts and bruises
• Dislocated joints
• Internal injuries
• Soft tissue damage

If you’ve suffered one of these injuries, a fall injury lawyer can help you explore your legal options.

Compensation Available for Slip and Fall Victims

After being hurt in a slip and fall while on another person’s property, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your losses. Recovering damages can help with:

• Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs
• Lost wages and future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

An attorney will demand the maximum possible compensation for these and other losses.

When to Settle vs. When to Go to Court

Choosing between settling your slip and fall case or taking it to trial is a big decision. While settling is often the quicker option, it may not always result in the full compensation you deserve. On the other hand, going to court can lead to a higher payout but comes with risks and a longer timeline. Here’s what to consider when making your decision.

Pros and Cons of Settling a Slip and Fall Case

Settlements offer a faster resolution and provide guaranteed compensation without the stress and risk of a trial. This means you can get financial relief sooner, which is especially helpful if you’re dealing with medical bills and lost wages. However, settlements are often lower than what a jury might award, and once you accept an offer, you can’t go back and ask for more money later.

How Trial Verdicts Can Lead to Higher Compensation

Taking a case to trial means a jury decides how much compensation you deserve, and in many cases, that amount is higher than a settlement offer. If the jury sides with you, you could recover more for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. However, trials take time, sometimes over a year, and there’s always a risk of losing, meaning you could walk away with nothing.

When Litigation Is Necessary to Get Fair Compensation

Sometimes, going to court is the only way to get the compensation you truly deserve. If the property owner or their insurance company refuses to provide a fair settlement, taking legal action may be necessary to ensure they are held responsible. A strong legal team can help you decide when it’s time to take the next step and fight for what’s right.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slip and Fall Lawsuits

If you’ve suffered an injury from a slip and fall accident, you may want to know what to do next and how to protect your rights. Here are some common questions people have about slip and fall lawsuits and what you need to know.

How much does hiring a lawyer cost?

Most slip and fall attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, so you do not have to pay anything up front. If the case is successful and you get compensation, your attorney will take an agreed upon percentage for their fee. You will usually discuss this arrangement during the initial consultation, so you know what to expect.

Can I sue if I fell on public property?

Yes, but lawsuits against government entities have different rules and stricter deadlines than cases against private businesses or individuals. You may need to file a special notice within a short period, or you could lose your right to sue. A local slip and fall attorney can guide you through the process and file your claim correctly.

What if I was wearing improper footwear?

Even if your shoes weren’t ideal for the conditions, property owners still have a legal responsibility to maintain safe premises. The court will look at all factors, including whether hazards like wet floors or uneven surfaces contributed to your fall.

How long does a slip and fall case take?

The length of a case depends on several factors, including how severe your injuries are and whether the property owner is willing to settle. Some cases wrap up within a few months, while others can take a year or more, especially if they go to trial. A slip and fall lawyer can give you a better estimate based on your unique situation.

Contact a Boulder Slip and Fall Lawyer Today

Do not wait to take legal action if a slip and fall accident hurt you. At The Wilhite Law Firm, our team is ready to stand up for you and fight for the compensation you need. Call us today at 720-679-5285 to get started with a free consultation, so we can discuss your case.