There are several factors that contribute to the frequency of slip and fall accidents in Tulsa. These include heavy precipitation, historic sidewalk elements that often translate to uneven walkways, and high winds that send debris flying. When property owners fail to implement the duty of care they owe their guests, it increases the risk that dangerous slip and fall accidents will occur. If you or someone you care about was injured in a slip and fall accident that was caused by the commercial property owner’s negligence, our experienced Tulsa slip and fall accident lawyers can help.
Slip And Fall Accidents: Claim Basics
In Oklahoma, slip and fall accident claims are guided by premises liability law. These legal principles include the following.
The Commercial Property Owner’s Duty Of Care
Ultimately, commercial property owners are required to use ordinary care in their efforts to maintain reasonably safe conditions for their guests. This means putting in the same amount of reasonable effort that other reasonable commercial property owners would under similar circumstances.
If the commercial property owner knew about the risk factor that caused the slip and fall accident, or reasonably should have known about it, they can be held liable. Failing to address a slip and fall hazard or failing to adequately warn guests of the danger within a reasonable amount of time qualifies as negligence.
The Time Limit For Filing A Slip And Fall Accident Lawsuit
In Oklahoma, you have only two years to file a slip and fall accident lawsuit against a negligent commercial property owner. This means that, if the involved insurance company refuses to settle your claim fairly, your accomplished slip and fall accident attorney will almost certainly advise you to file a lawsuit.
In the City of Tulsa, you’ll file your case with the Tulsa County District Court. Cases that involve at least $10,000 in damages are heard by the Civil Division of this court.
Comparative Negligence
It is not uncommon for commercial property owners to deflect fault toward injured claimants. The matter of fault in slip and fall accident claims, however, must be backed up by the available evidence, which your persuasive slip and fall accident lawyer will ably handle.
In the end, saying that you are at fault and proving that it’s true are two very different things. And even if you do bear some of the responsibility for the injury-causing accident, Oklahoma employs what’s called comparative negligence. This means that, as long as you are no more than 50 percent responsible, you can seek compensation for the percentage of your losses that is assigned to the commercial property owner.
Discuss Your Claim With Our Experienced Tulsa Slip And Fall Accident Attorneys Today
Our capable slip and fall accident lawyers at ASH LAW, serving clients throughout the City of Tulsa and the State of Oklahoma, dedicate our practice to fiercely pursuing fair settlements that support our clients’ most complete recoveries. For more information, please don’t wait to reach out by contacting us online or giving our firm a call at 918-599-0001 today.
