In the state of California, a fatal slip-and-fall is grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. While most slip-and-falls result in injury and not death, a fatal accident is always a possibility.
Not every slip-and-fall could have been prevented. People who are not sure on their feet may fall and injure themselves. Small children just learning to walk may fall into your business through no fault of your own. It is when a slip-and-fall occurs because of some type of hazard that a property owner may be found negligent and forced to pay compensation to the victim.
There are many ways that a person can fall due to someone’s negligence. A business owner may fail to clean a spill or warn customers of a wet floor. A property owner may fail to replace or repair a cracked and uneven sidewalk. A homeowner may have rugs or carpets that are loose and slippery. When a person fails to remedy a hazard on their property and that hazard results in a fatal slip-and-fall accident, the property owner can be found liable for wrongful death.
Any person in San Luis Obispo who is hurt in a slip-and-fall accident that is the result of someone else’s negligence is urged to consult an attorney experienced in personal injury law. Any family member whose loved one has died as a result of a slip-and-fall is encouraged to do the same. An experienced attorney can provide guidance and advice to these families during a difficult time.