Slip And Fall Lawyer Charlotte, NC

Why do you need a Slip and Fall Lawyer in Charlotte, NC

Schehr Law, PLLC is a premier legal firm based in Charlotte, NC, dedicated to safeguarding the rights of individuals who have suffered due to the negligence of others. When unfortunate slip and fall accidents occur, they can result in significant injuries and burdensome medical bills, disrupting the lives of victims. Navigating the intricate legal maze of personal injury claims requires expertise. This is where a specialized Slip and Fall Lawyer from Schehr Law, PLLC becomes indispensable. Our dedicated attorneys possess a deep understanding of North Carolina’s premises liability laws, ensuring victims obtain the compensation they rightfully deserve. With our experienced legal guidance, you can focus on healing while we diligently advocate for your best interests.

What are common cases of Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents, often falling under the umbrella of premises liability claims, can happen in a myriad of situations. These accidents are caused by hazardous conditions or obstacles that property owners or managers neglect to rectify. Here are some common scenarios in which slip and fall accidents typically occur:

  • Wet and Slippery Floors: Spilled liquids, recent mopping without warning signs, or waxed floors can cause visitors to lose their footing.
  • Uneven Surfaces: Cracked sidewalks, potholes in parking lots, or uneven flooring can be a tripping hazard.
  • Torn or Bulging Carpeting: Old or poorly maintained carpeting can create an uneven surface, leading to trips and falls.
  • Poor Lighting: Inadequately lit hallways, staircases, or rooms can conceal hazards and make it difficult for individuals to see where they are stepping.
  • Stairs without Handrails: Lack of handrails or poorly constructed handrails can increase the risk of falls, especially if stairs are steep or uneven.
  • Cluttered Floors: Items left on the floor, be it in stores, offices, or homes, can pose tripping hazards, especially if they are unexpected or out of place.
  • Transitions in Flooring: Going from one type of flooring to another, like from carpet to tile, can sometimes be jarring and lead to falls if not properly marked or if the transition is uneven.
  • Icy or Snowy Walkways: In colder climates or seasons, ice or snow can accumulate on walkways, driveways, and parking lots, making them slippery.
  • Loose or Broken Floor Tiles or Boards: Such irregularities in the walking surface can catch an individual’s foot and lead to a fall.
  • Exposed Cables or Wires: In office settings or during construction, cables or wires that are not properly secured can be a tripping hazard.
  • Inadequate Safety Protocols in Construction Zones: Open pits, uneven ground, or lack of proper signage in construction or repair zones can lead to accidents.

It’s crucial to note that for a slip and fall claim to be viable, it’s generally required that the property owner or manager knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to take appropriate action to rectify it.

What is the statute of limitations on a slip and fall in NC


In North Carolina, the statute of limitations establishes a deadline for when a legal claim related to a slip and fall accident can be initiated. Specifically, individuals who suffer injuries from a slip and fall incident have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in the state’s civil courts. If they fail to commence their lawsuit within this three-year window, the North Carolina courts will typically dismiss their case, effectively barring them from seeking compensation.

Navigating the intricacies of this time-sensitive legal landscape is where the expertise of Schehr Law, PLLC becomes invaluable. With a profound understanding of North Carolina’s personal injury laws, our attorneys can efficiently guide clients through every step of the legal process, ensuring they meet crucial deadlines and optimize their chances of a favorable outcome. Furthermore, given North Carolina’s stringent “contributory negligence” rule, where even minor fault on the part of the injured can prevent recovery, the counsel of a seasoned attorney from Schehr Law, PLLC becomes even more essential. We strive to meticulously build and present your case, challenging any attempts to pin unjust blame on our clients. With Schehr Law, PLLC by your side, you’re not just getting legal representation; you’re securing a dedicated advocate committed to fighting for your rights and interests

What are considered evidence of negligence in a Slip and Fall case


In a slip and fall case, demonstrating negligence is pivotal to establishing liability and seeking compensation. Evidence of negligence can strengthen the victim’s claim that the property owner or manager failed in their duty of care. Here are common types of evidence that can be used to demonstrate negligence in a slip and fall case:

  • Photographs or Videos: Visual evidence of the hazardous condition, such as wet floors, broken tiles, torn carpets, or icy walkways, can be powerful. Photographs or videos can depict the exact nature and extent of the danger at the scene of the accident.
  • Accident Reports: If the incident occurred at a business or other establishment and an accident report was filed, it can be valuable evidence.
  • Witness Testimonies: Statements from individuals who saw the accident or are familiar with the recurring hazardous condition on the property can provide essential corroboration.
  • Maintenance and Inspection Records: These can show whether the property owner conducted regular checks and addressed hazards in a timely manner. An absence of regular maintenance can be evidence of negligence.
  • Previous Complaints: Any previous complaints or reports about the hazardous condition can demonstrate that the property owner was aware, or should have been aware, of the danger.
  • Weather Reports: In cases involving outdoor slip and falls due to ice or snow, weather reports can show when the last snowfall or freeze occurred, which can help establish how long the hazard existed and whether the property owner had ample time to address it.
  • Surveillance Footage: Many businesses and properties have surveillance cameras. Footage from these cameras can show the accident in real-time and can provide unimpeachable evidence of the conditions that led to the fall.
  • Property Owner Statements: Sometimes, property owners might admit they knew of the dangerous condition or that they should have fixed it. Such admissions can be used against them in court.
  • Building Codes or Regulations: Evidence that a property owner violated local or state building codes or safety regulations can be used to demonstrate negligence.
  • Medical Records: While not directly proving negligence, medical records can link the accident to the injury and show the severity and extent of the harm suffered.

When pursuing a slip and fall claim, it’s essential to gather and preserve evidence quickly. Over time, conditions change, memories fade, and valuable evidence can be lost or destroyed. Seeking the help of an attorney early in the process can ensure that all pertinent evidence is collected and preserved, bolstering the chances of proving negligence and securing compensation.

Charlotte Slip And Fall Infographic

Common Types of Evidence in a Slip And Fall Case Infographic

FAQ:

How long does someone have to sue you in NC

In North Carolina, the amount of time someone has to initiate a lawsuit against you — known as the statute of limitations — varies depending on the nature of the claim. For personal injury cases, such as car accidents or slip and falls, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the injury. For property damage claims, the limit is also three years. However, for written contracts, the timeframe extends to five years, while oral contracts have a three-year limit. It’s worth noting that there are several other nuances and specific scenarios, each with its own timeframe. Once the relevant statute of limitations expires, the person loses the right to sue on that specific claim. Always consult with a legal professional for specific guidance, as certain circumstances can either extend or shorten these general time limits.

What is the discovery rule for personal injury in NC

In North Carolina, the discovery rule is an exception to the standard statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Typically, the clock for the statute of limitations begins ticking on the date of the injury. However, there are instances where the injured party might not immediately recognize the injury or its cause. The discovery rule stipulates that the statute of limitations doesn’t begin until the injured person discovers, or reasonably should have discovered, both the injury and its link to the negligent act of another. For example, if a medical malpractice incident doesn’t manifest symptoms until years later, the discovery rule might come into play, allowing the injured party more time to initiate a lawsuit. However, application of the discovery rule can be complex, and there are still ultimate cut-off points to be mindful of. It’s essential to consult with a North Carolina attorney to understand how the discovery rule might apply in specific personal injury scenarios.

What is the slip and fall law in NC

In North Carolina, the slip and fall law revolves around premises liability, which dictates that property owners or occupiers have a duty to maintain safe conditions and warn visitors of potential hazards. If someone is injured due to a hazardous condition on another’s property, they may have a valid claim for compensation. However, North Carolina operates under the doctrine of “contributory negligence.” This means that if the injured party is found even slightly at fault for their injuries, they may be barred from receiving any compensation. For instance, if someone slips and falls on a wet floor, but there was a visible warning sign they overlooked, they could be deemed contributory negligent and be denied recovery. Given this stringent rule, pursuing a slip and fall claim in North Carolina requires meticulous evidence gathering and legal expertise to ensure victims aren’t unfairly blamed and can secure the compensation they deserve.

What Is a Premises Liability Law

Premises liability law pertains to the legal principles that hold property owners and occupiers responsible for injuries sustained by individuals on their property due to unsafe or defective conditions. Essentially, it mandates that those who own or control a property have a duty to maintain it in a reasonably safe condition and to warn visitors or tenants of potential hazards. This liability can arise in various scenarios, from slip and fall accidents on a wet supermarket floor to injuries sustained due to faulty electrical wiring in a rented apartment. The extent of the duty often depends on the relationship between the property owner and the injured party, typically categorized as invitees, licensees, or trespassers. While the specifics of premises liability law can vary by jurisdiction, its overarching aim is to ensure that property owners and managers take appropriate measures to prevent foreseeable harm to individuals on their premises.

When Is a Property Owner Liable for a Slip and Fall Accident

A property owner is liable for a slip and fall accident when it can be established that they were negligent in maintaining their property or in warning about hazards. For a property owner to be held liable, one of the following must typically be true: the owner or an employee must have caused the spill or dangerous surface; the owner or an employee must have known about the hazardous condition but did nothing to address it; or the condition existed for such a length of time that the owner or an employee should have discovered and rectified it before the accident. Essentially, the crux of liability revolves around the property owner’s knowledge of the dangerous condition and their subsequent inaction. It’s imperative to demonstrate that the property owner’s negligence was the direct cause of the injury and that the injured party did not contribute significantly to their own mishap.

Why you should consider Schehr Law, PLLC

In the bustling heart of Charlotte, NC, slip and fall accidents can disrupt lives, imposing both physical pain and financial strain. At such critical junctures, Schehr Law, PLLC stands as a beacon of hope, guiding victims through the intricate legal maze towards rightful compensation. With an unwavering commitment to justice, our firm’s dedicated team combines legal acumen with compassion, ensuring that every client feels heard and represented. Our track record in handling complex premises liability claims speaks for itself. When you choose Schehr Law, PLLC, you’re not just hiring an attorney; you’re aligning with a powerhouse of expertise and dedication, determined to bring light to your darkest hours. Don’t let a slip and fall define your life—let Schehr Law, PLLC redefine your path to recovery.

Charlotte Slip And Fall Laws

If you are filing a claim after suffering injuries from a slip and fall accident, it is helpful to have a basic idea of local laws, as a Charlotte, NC slip and fall lawyer can explain. As a slip and fall lawyer in North Carolina, we want to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework in place to protect your rights if you find yourself in such a situation.

Premises Liability In North Carolina

Slip and fall accidents in North Carolina are categorized in the area of premises liability. This legal concept holds property owners responsible for maintaining a safe environment for visitors and guests. It means that property owners, whether residential or commercial, have a legal duty to exercise reasonable care in ensuring their premises are free from hazards that could lead to slip and fall accidents.

Contributory Negligence Rule

One critical aspect of North Carolina slip and fall laws is the contributory negligence rule. North Carolina is one of the few states that follow this strict rule. Under contributory negligence, if the injured party is found even slightly responsible for their slip and fall accident, they may be barred from recovering any compensation. This can be hard for victims because any degree of negligent actions on their part can weaken the strength of their claim, as a North Carolina slip and fall lawyer from Schehr Law, PLLC can explain. 

Statute Of Limitations

Another important aspect to consider is the statute of limitations for slip and fall cases in North Carolina. In general, claimants have three years to file their claim. It’s crucial to act promptly if you believe you have a valid claim, as failing to meet this deadline can result in the forfeiture of your right to seek compensation.

Burden Of Proof

Claimants have the burden to establish that the property owner acted negligent, and their actions resulted in the slip and fall accident which led to their injuries. This typically requires proving that the owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition that caused your accident and failed to take appropriate action to remedy it. Collecting evidence, such as photographs, witness statements, and medical records, is essential to building a strong case. 

Discover Your Legal Options

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident in North Carolina, it’s vital to consult with an experienced slip and fall lawyer who understands the intricacies of the state’s laws. At our law firm, we have a deep understanding of North Carolina slip and fall laws and are committed to helping you navigate the legal process to secure the compensation you deserve. Don’t let the complexities of North Carolina slip and fall laws deter you from seeking justice. Our slip and fall lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way and fight for your rights. Set up a free consultation with a Charlotte slip and fall lawyer if you would like to learn more about your case. 

I will always take the option of going to trial if the need arises. In these cases, a victim will need to show that the party responsible for their injuries acted negligently in causing the accident. Negligence is a legal term that describes the appropriate precautions that apply to any given situation. Drivers are expected to obey traffic rules and stay alert to their surroundings, while stores and restaurants are supposed to clean spills and maintain their property for customers.

After proving that the defendant failed to meet the applicable standard of care, the plaintiff will need to show that the accident was a foreseeable result of the defendant’s carelessness. This issue of causation is important because victims will not be able to recover compensation if they were in any way responsible for the accident. An experienced personal injury attorney at our Charlotte office  can help you assess your claim and gather evidence that places the fault for your injuries where it belongs.

If you have an injury because of the negligence of another person then you can make your claim of personal injury. After the injury has taken place, contact Schehr Law immediately after the occurrence. We will assess if you are eligible to claim personal injury or not. You might be liable to compensation based on the type of your injury. In some cases, you may get a damages payment that will ensure that all your cost is covered to get you back to the state that you were in before your accident, by the offender. 

Your personal injury lawyer will evaluate the specific situation that you are in. There are various types of accidents and all accidents are different from each other. The entire process takes some time so get in touch with your insurers and collect all the medical evidence to make your case stronger. 

Not only will I work tirelessly to retrieve a settlement or a win at trial, but I will negotiate with medical providers and insurance companies to reduce your medical bills. Reducing your bills will increase your settlement recovery.

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"As a fellow professional in the area, I highly recommend Chris Schehr as an attorney. He has been very helpful to my clients as a resource for their personal injury, criminal, and immigration needs. In my experience with Chris, he is especially skilled with clients in car accident related cases."
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