How do I Figure Out the Worth of a Slip and Fall Claim?
As you only have one chance in seeking compensation when slip and fall accidents occur, it is important to accurately estimate both the current costs associated with your injuries and the future expenses you are likely to incur.
While people are often tempted to downplay the effects of a slip and fall accident, the fact is that they can result in serious personal injuries that impact you now and in the years to come. Even a seemingly minor fall can leave you suffering painful, chronic conditions that prevent you from working or enjoying hobbies and activities with your family and friends, while requiring expensive and ongoing medical care in the future.
While it is natural to want to put this incident behind you and settle your claim, it is important to remember that you have only one chance for getting the compensation you need to recover. Accurately estimating your costs and understanding the types of compensation you may be entitled to can help ensure you get the maximum amount you deserve.
The Serious Nature of Slip and Fall Injuries
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), slips and falls are one of the most common causes of death and disability in the United States. While commonly referred to as ‘accidents’, they are often the result of the reckless and negligent actions of property owners, managers, or their employees.
Even an otherwise minor slip and fall can leave a victim with serious injuries, with symptoms that may not occur for days, weeks, or even months afterward. Common types of injuries associated with slips and falls include:
- Soft tissue injuries, such as muscle or tendon sprains, strains, and tears;
- Broken bones and dislocated joints;
- Injuries to the back and neck, such as slipped or herniated discs;
- Head injuries, including concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Estimating Your Damages
In slip and fall cases, it is important to get an idea from your doctor regarding the maximum amount of medical improvement you are likely to achieve, as well as the amount of care and treatment that will be required. Under the Tennessee Code (Section 29-39-102), damages to consider when filing a claim include:
- Your current and ongoing medical expenses, including medications, medical devices, modifications to your home, nursing care, and physical therapy;
- Lost wages, and future losses in income and benefits due to ongoing disabilities;
- Compensation for your pain and suffering, including loss of enjoyment in life due to your inability to engage in your previous hobbies and activities;
- Compensation for the impact your injuries have on your immediate family, including the ways in which any ongoing disabilities prevent you from performing simple daily tasks you previously did around your home or participating in family functions.
Reach Out to Our Nashville Personal Injury Attorneys
Before agreeing to any type of settlement in your case or signing any documents, reach out and contact Bednarz Law to request a one-on-one consultation with our Nashville personal injury attorney to ensure you are getting the total amount to which you are entitled.