Unexpected events can happen when you are engaged in otherwise normal, daily activities. You could be out running errands, on a shopping trip to your local market or favorite retail store, or enjoying a meal with friends in your favorite eatery when a sudden mishap leaves you suffering potentially serious personal injuries. When this type of situation occurs in public, your natural inclination may be to downplay the damage or to wave off any help or assistance offered. Unfortunately, even if there are no obvious symptoms, the injuries you suffer can have long-term impacts on your health and financial security.
The Serious Nature of Personal Injuries in Vancouver
According to the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), close to 40,000 people require emergency medical care each year in our area as the result of unintentional, accidental injuries. Among the most common causes include:
- Slips, trips, and falls;
- Being struck by or against an object;
- Getting cut or pierced by objects or sharp edges;
- Burns caused by contact with hot surfaces or chemical substances;
- Accidental poisonings.
Even if your injuries appear minor, adverse effects can have long-term impacts on your overall health. Complications can result in the need for ongoing medical care, while preventing you from working or engaging in otherwise normal daily activities.
Compensation Through a Premises Liability Claim
While often referred to as ‘accidents’, the fact is that personal injuries that occur on another’s property are often the result of reckless and negligent behaviors on the part of the property owner. Examples include:
- Wet floors or uneven walks, making slips and falls more likely;
- Failing to rope off dangerous areas or to provide the proper lighting;
- Loose store fixtures or areas under construction that pose injury risks due to debris;
- Failure to clean up broken glass or allowing sharp surfaces to go unfiled;
- Overheating foods and beverages prior to serving guests;
- Improper sanitation practices.
Property owners have a legal duty to ensure the safety of invited guests, either by correcting dangerous conditions or by warning that dangers exist. If they fail to do so, they can be held liable for the damages you suffer. Depending on the situation, you may be entitled to compensation through a claim against the property owners insurance. In the event a settlement cannot be reached or your claim is denied, you may be entitled to compensation through a premises liability lawsuit under the Revised Code of Washington.
Reach Out to Our Vancouver Personal Injury Attorneys
When accidental, unexpected injuries occur, it is important to get medical care immediately, even if your injuries appear minor. Not doing so could jeopardize your rights in a claim. At the Johnston Law Firm, we can guide you in the actions you need to take to ensure you get the compensation you are entitled to for medical expenses and other damages you suffer. Reach out and contact our Vancouver personal injury attorneys today to request a consultation to discuss how we can help in your case.