Slip and Fall Attorney in Odessa, Texas

Slip and fall accidents are common and can happen anywhere— at home, at work, in a store, or on a public sidewalk. These accidents can result in severe injuries that require medical attention, often leaving victims feeling helpless and unsure of what to do.  

If you have been injured in a slip and fall or other premises liability incident, it is important to take immediate steps to protect your rights and well-being. Our experienced and compassionate slip and fall attorney at The Law Office of Steve Brannan can help you navigate the legal process and recover the compensation you deserve. From our office in Odessa, Texas, we serve accident victims in Andrews, Midland, Pecos, Big Spring, and throughout West Texas communities.  

Premises Liability in Texas

Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners and occupiers responsible for ensuring that their premises are safe for visitors. The law requires property owners to take reasonable steps to prevent accidents and injuries on their property. Unfortunately, many property owners fail to meet this standard, resulting in serious accidents and injuries to innocent visitors.  

There is a wide range of accidents and incidents that fall under the category of premises liability cases, including but not limited to: 

• Slip and fall accidents occur when someone slips due to a hazardous condition such as a wet floor.  

• Trip and fall accidents are similar to slip and fall accidents and occur when someone trips on an obstacle on the ground.  

• Inadequate security is when a property owner breaches their duty to provide adequate security measures to protect their visitors from foreseeable criminal activity.  

• Hotel accidents occur on hotel premises, such as slip and fall accidents in hotel lobbies. 

Dog bite cases can give you a basis to make a premises liability claim if the dog owner failed to take appropriate steps to protect property visitors from their dog whom they knew to be untrained or aggressive. 

The statute of limitations for premises liability in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. This means that, as a victim of a slip and fall accident, you must file a claim within two years of the date of your injury. Failure to do so can result in your case getting dismissed and you losing your chance to recover damages.  

If you have concerns about the deadline for your claim, or any questions about Texas personal injury statutes, don't hesitate to consult a trusted lawyer in your area. Our personal injury attorney is here to help clarify your options and steer you in the direction of receiving the full compensation you deserve.  

Liable Parties in a Slip and Fall Accident

In your slip and fall claim, it’s important to pinpoint the party who’s liable for your accident. There are several parties who may be responsible for a slip and fall accident, including: 

• Property owners have a legal obligation to ensure the safety of their premises. The owner may be responsible if an accident occurred due to a wet floor, poor lighting, or failure to maintain the property’s conditions. 

• Business operators have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for customers. This includes ensuring there are no hazards or obstacles that could cause injury. 

• Property managers have a legal obligation to maintain the premises’ safety, including repairing potential hazards or warning of potential hazards. 

• Government agencies may be held accountable if the accident occurred on governmental property and the agency failed to maintain a safe premise. 

In some cases, the plaintiff may share responsibility for the slip and fall accident. Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, where the plaintiff’s compensation may be reduced based on the level of their fault. If the plaintiff’s fault reaches 51%, they may not receive any compensation. 

Proving Fault After the Accident

Proving fault in a slip and fall case can be complicated. To establish negligence, as the plaintiff, you must show that the defendant had a duty to maintain a safe environment, breached that duty, and caused your injuries and any other losses you’re pursuing compensation for. Here are some tips on how to prove fault: 

• Document the accident scene. Take photos of the location where the accident occurred and any possible hazards like wet floors or broken stairs. 

• Obtain witness information. Obtain witness information and testimonies to strengthen the claim. 

• Seek medical attention. Victims should seek medical attention to document their injuries. 

• Report the accident. Victims should report the accident to the responsible party immediately. 

• Contact an attorney. An attorney can help advise on the legal options and ensure that the evidence is gathered properly. 

Our personal injury attorney at The Law Office of Steve Brannan can help review the accident’s details and guide you through the legal process with genuine care and concern for your health and overall recovery. Get the unparalleled representation you deserve when you choose us.