A property owner is supposed to keep their property safe from hazards like exposed wires or cables. This applies whether they are running a business like a supermarket or they are a government entity that owns a piece of public property like a park. If you get injured because you tripped over a hazard like exposed wires or cables, you may be owed compensation. A Prince George’s County slip and fall lawyer can help you evaluate your legal options.
What Should I Do Right After Tripping Over Exposed Wires or Cables?
Tripping over exposed wires or cables can cause serious injuries, from concussions to broken bones. If this kind of hazard trips you up, you can start building a case right away by:
- Taking photos of the exposed wires or cables
- Filling out an incident report and getting a copy for yourself
- Looking for any cameras that may have recorded footage of your accident
- Talking to witnesses and getting their contact information
- Seeing a doctor as soon as possible to get any injuries diagnosed
- Talking to a lawyer about suing for compensation
Who is Liable for Injuries Caused By Exposed Wires or Cables?
In most cases like this, the property owner would be held responsible for the hazard that causes an accident and injuries. However, things can get complicated if that property owner blames the exposed wires or cables on someone else, like a utility company that didn’t properly clean up after doing their job.
Matters can also get more complex if the property owner is the government. The process for suing a government agency or entity is different, and the deadline for acting can come up quickly! We recommend talking to a lawyer as soon as possible if you want to ensure that you do not miss your chance to claim compensation.
What Kinds of Damages Can I Win?
If you do successfully sue a liable party, you can be reimbursed for the economic losses you’ve experienced and the pain and suffering you’ve gone through as a result of your accident. You should receive compensation that helps make up for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost earning potential
- Loss of enjoyment
- Psychological trauma
- Mental health issues stemming from the accident
Will I Have to Go to Trial?
Many cases like this actually settle before they go to trial. So if you trip over exposed wires or cables and worry that suing will be too time-consuming and that a trial will be stressful, don’t let those worries dissuade you. This process can be stressful. You may have to go to trial if yours is one of the rare cases that doesn’t settle. However, we think that holding a liable party accountable for your injuries and claiming the compensation that you deserve makes all of the work and stress worth it.
Contact Our Legal Team
If you want to learn more about what an attorney can to do assist you, contact McCarthy, Winkelman & Mester, L.L.P. We can schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options with you.
