Detroit Slip & Fall Accident Attorneys

Experienced Premises Liability Lawyers in Detroit – (248) 286-8100

Property owners in Michigan have a duty to make sure that their property is safe for the people they invite there, whether it is for business or just a simple social call. Unfortunately, some property owners do not take that responsibility seriously. For visitors, this can result in injuries due to slip and falls. Victims who suffer serious injuries as a result of a slip and fall accident in Michigan do have legal rights.

If you were injured in a slip and fall accident, it is important that you do not wait to consult with one of our lawyers at Goodman Acker P.C. as evidence of the incident can change and it may be harder to acquire photographs or video surveillance of the scene of the accident. This is something our Detroit slip and fall lawyers will do for you, along with investigating witnesses who were at the scene.

Slip and fall accident cases can be quite complex when it comes to proving negligence in Michigan. It is important that you hire an attorney who has significant experience in thoroughly investigating these claims and a proven track record of obtaining maximum compensation for slip and fall accidents.

After suffering from a slip and fall accident, we want to provide you with a game plan. At your earliest convenience, reach out to our firm with an explanation of your case so that we can build a strategy for you to obtain the compensation you deserve.

How Do You Start a Slip and Fall Claim in Detroit?

While being on this page is an important step in the slip and fall claim process, there are several other things you must do as well. You may have done some already, but if not, they are essential to proceed with your case. Here’s what to do if you’re injured in a slip and fall accident:

• Seek medical treatment. Like any injury, it’s important to seek proper medical treatment. This type of accident can cause serious injuries such as head and brain injuries, internal injuries, and soft tissue injuries that may not always be immediately apparent. 
• File an accident report. Make sure you file an accident report with the correct person. Where you’re injured makes a difference in who it should be submitted to, such as the landlord, security guard, or store manager. After the report is filed, you should ask for a copy of the report.
• Gather evidence. Take and keep photos of the accident scene. Keep proof of your medical expenses as well as letters from the insurance company.
• Write down your story. While the story is fresh in your mind, you should write down exactly what happened, how you feel, and the issues you’re currently having.
• Stay off social media. Don’t discuss your case on any form of social media. Anything you post on Facebook, Twitter, or Snapchat can be used against you.
• Keep quiet. If you plan to hire an attorney, don’t speak with the insurance company. What you say can be used against you. Don’t sign any releases until your attorney approves them.
• Reach out to an attorney. Contact Goodman Acker today and let our team of experienced attorneys help you.

Should You Hire a Slip and Fall Lawyer After an Accident in Detroit?

An attorney can play a crucial role in the outcome of your slip and fall injury. If you decide to file a claim, you can rest assured knowing that our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your slip and fall to help build a strong case in your favor. We will file all claims and paperwork on your behalf and do so in a timely manner. We will work aggressively in order to ensure you receive the care you need and the compensation you deserve. At Goodman Acker, we’re passionate about providing our clients with representation that will make a difference in their claims.

What Must You Prove in a Michigan Slip and Fall Case?

Michigan is one of the top slip and fall states in the United States. In a Michigan slip and fall claim, you must show that an unreasonable risk caused you bodily harm. Trip and fall hazards include:

• Poor lighting in stairwells, hallways, and even outside pathways. 
• Spilled liquids on the floor.
• Uneven or broken stairs.
• Icy, wet, or snowy floors or walkways.
• Uneven or broken pavement in parking lots or sidewalks.
• Loose, broken, or missing handrails.

If the property owner was aware or should have known about the risk, they then had “actual notice” by seeing or creating the hazard or allowing it to remain long enough that they should have noticed. If they failed to protect you or give you a warning and you suffered because of their negligence, you may have a claim.

Slip and Falls on Snow and Ice in Michigan

In Detroit, we often experience increased amounts of snow and ice in the winter months, which significantly increases the risk of slip and fall injuries. These accidents occur due to snow and ice buildup on parking lots, stairways, entrances to buildings, and sidewalks. Generally, you’re not allowed to file a claim due to the owner’s failure to remove snow and ice accumulation. There are certain instances where you can, though. Consulting with an attorney can help you determine whether or not you should file a claim.

Can I Sue the Government for Slip and Falls on a Public Property?

The short answer here is yes. The reality of the answer is that it may be a big hassle and challenging to prove that the government entity is at fault. You’ll need a highly experienced lawyer to navigate through a slip and fall claim against the government.

Can I Sue My Employer for a Slip and Fall?

In Michigan, employees are covered under worker’s compensation for injuries that occur while on the job. Some scenarios are an exception and it may be possible to file a claim. A discussion with one of our experienced attorneys will help you decide whether you have a claim.

What’s the Statute of Limitations on Slip and Fall Cases in Michigan?

The statute of limitations surrounding slip and fall cases in Michigan specifies three years from the date of the injury. If you want to file a claim and need help from a lawyer, it’s better to do so immediately so that you don’t find yourself running out of time.

How Long Will My Slip and Fall Case Take?

The length of your slip and fall case depends on the circumstances surrounding your accident and the severity of your injuries. Some claims can be resolved quickly if the person or business being accused of negligence agrees to pay. That doesn’t always mean you should take this offer, as you don’t always know the long-term impact and what a fair compensation amount would be.

Common Causes of Slip & Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can result from a dangerous condition that someone failed to take care of, like a wet floor that wasn’t clearly marked, or a loose rug that should have been nailed down. A slip and fall accident can easily lead to head injuries, brain trauma, broken bones, back and spinal cord damage, serious sprains, painful bruising, and even death.

Examples of common slip and fall hazards in the Detroit area include:

• No warnings posted on known hazards or construction areas
• Icy, wet, or snowy floors or walkways
• Loose, broken, or missing handrails
• Debris from a spill
• Poor lighting in stairwells, hallways, and even outside pathways
• Uneven or broken pavement in parking lots or sidewalks
• Uneven or broken stairs or steps
• Known construction defects

Detroit Slip and Fall Lawyers Boasting an Impressive Track Record

Slip and fall cases may seem simple but they involve a complex area of the law. If you believe that you have a case, then you should talk to a Detroit slip and fall attorney familiar with slip and fall claims. Our firm has experience in both slip and fall litigation and settlements.

We’ve helped many fall victims in the Detroit metro area receive justice — and we can help you too. Remember, an experienced attorney can help you to protect your rights. Get important information on slip and fall cases involving icy sidewalks here.

Some of our case results include:

• A $102,000 trial verdict in Oakland County for a woman who slipped and fell at a night club, resulting in a fractured ankle.
• A $400,000 judgment In Wayne County for a delivery man who suffered a painful shoulder injury in a fall.
• A $519,000 trial verdict in Livingston County for a subcontractor who was injured due to lack of guardrails.

See What Our Clients Have to Say About Us!

Mr. Acker has done an amazing job with his expertise, his caring attitude and kindness. He does not treat you as a number and he really listens to you. His assistant, Tammy, is awesome. Every time I saw or talked to her she was kind and has compassion for you that most people would not. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone that needs legal help. He has patience and understands what you are going through during the whole process of litigation. Just call for a consult and you will truly understand what I am saying about this firm.
– Linda