Take this situation: You step inside a bar in Jersey City to enjoy the evening. Unknown to you, there are broken pieces of glass on the wet floor. You slip and suffer multiple injuries in the mishap. Who is responsible? The answer is often straightforward – The bar manager should have known the hazard and must have cleaned the floor. This is a classic example of a premise liability claim. It is essential to consult a slip and fall attorney in Jersey City immediately after such an accident. In this post, we will discuss how an attorney can be your biggest resource for recovering a settlement.
Understanding New Jersey state laws
Regarding slip & fall accidents, New Jersey’s statute of limitations gives you two years to file a civil lawsuit against the liable party. You may assume that the time cap is long enough, but if you are not swift enough, important evidence can be hard to recover. Also, there is the comparative fault rule. If you were at fault for the accident, you can only sue the other party when you are less than 50% liable. Your final compensation will be adjusted for your fault share. These are complex calculations, and the insurance company will usually try to pin the blame on you.
Why does your lawyer matter?
- Get a case assessment: The good news is most law firms in the city will offer free consultation sessions for claimants with premise liability claims. Meet an attorney to know what the claim is worth.
- Deal better with the insurance company: The claims adjuster will try ways to pay a lower settlement, and you need an attorney who can negotiate on your behalf. Also, don’t give a recorded statement unless your lawyer says so.
- Find evidence: Injury lawyers have to investigate accidents all the time and already have the resources, expert witnesses, and other contacts you need. Your legal team will do everything to find relevant evidence from all potential sources.
- File a lawsuit: If the insurance amount is unacceptable, you need an attorney to file a lawsuit. Your lawyer will represent your interests before the jury and get you the highest possible compensation.
If you are concerned about the cost of legal assistance, you would be glad to know that slip-and-fall lawsuits are usually handled on contingency. Your lawyer will take their share of your settlement when you win. Call an attorney as soon as your get hurt.