Slip and fall injuries are common in Toronto and can happen to anyone at anytime. These slip and fall accidents often lead to serious consequences for the victims involved. Whether it happens on a sidewalk, in a store, or at someone’s home, you have rights and understanding them along with your legal options is crucial. At Bergel Magence, we specialize in personal injury law and are here to provide you with the essential information you need if you’ve been injured in a slip and fall incident in Toronto or anywhere in Toronto.
Understanding Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip and fall injuries happen in all seasons and can range from minor bruises to severe fractures or head injuries, depending on the circumstances of the fall. Common causes of slip and fall injuries include wet or icy surfaces, uneven flooring, inadequate lighting, or obstructions in walkways. These accidents can occur anywhere, including public places, private residences, or commercial properties.
Responsibility and Liability
In Ontario, property owners and occupiers have a legal duty to maintain safe premises for visitors. This applies to both residential and commercial properties. If a property owner fails to address hazards or maintain safe conditions, they may be held liable for injuries that occur because of their negligence.
Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident
If you’ve been involved in a slip and fall accident, it’s essential to take the following steps to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention – After a slip and fall accident, it’s important to prioritize your health. Even if you feel your injuries are minor, seek medical attention promptly. It’s impossible to know the extent of your injuries without seeking proper medical help.
- Report the Accident – Notify the property owner, manager, or landlord about the accident as soon as possible. Document all details of the incident, including the date, time, and circumstances of the fall.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos of the hazardous conditions that caused the fall. Collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident happen. The more evidence of the location and situation the better. Also, look to see if there is any video footage of the location.
- Contact Legal Counsel – Reach out to a local, highly rated attorney who specializes in personal injury law. More advise on this step will be highlighted later in the post.
- Keep Records – Maintain a record of all medical treatments received and any expenses incurred due to the injury, such as medical bills or lost wages.
Legal Considerations in Slip and Fall Cases
In Ontario, proving liability in slip and fall cases can be complex. The law considers factors such as the property owner’s awareness of the hazard, whether they took reasonable steps to prevent accidents, and the injured person’s own actions leading up to the incident.
Statute of Limitations
It’s important to be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a slip and fall claim in Ontario, which is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this timeframe may prevent you from seeking compensation for your injuries.
Choosing The Right Personal Injury Law Firm
Not all Toronto based personal injury law firms are created equal. When choosing a personal injury firm to represent you, do your research. Look at online reviews and testimonials. When speaking with the firm, ask many questions. See how ongoing communication will be and how they will update you on the legal process. Trust your gut when speaking with the lawyer. If there are any hesitations when speaking with them, don’t move forward. And lastly, ask how payment works. Do they only get paid on success? Only move forward if payment is tied into winning your case.
At Bergel Magence, we have a dedicated team of personal injury lawyers with extensive experience in handling slip and fall cases in Toronto and throughout Ontario. We understand the challenges in seeking compensation for your injuries and the nuances of handling slip and fall cases. Our commitment to providing you with compassionate and knowledgeable legal representation is unparalleled.
We have helped numerous Torontonians that have been hurt in slip and fall accidents get the justice and compensation they deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident in Toronto, it’s important to seek legal advice from a trusted personal injury lawyer who understands the complexities of these cases. At Bergel Magence, we offer a free consultation to discuss your case and provide guidance on your legal options. And with Bergel Magence you only pay when we win. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries.