State law requires businesses and property owners to keep their premises in a safe condition. If they fail to meet these requirements, they may be held liable when a visitor or guest slips and falls due to a hazardous situation. If you have suffered an injury from a slip and fall or trip and fall accident, your financial, medical, and emotional challenges may feel overwhelming. At Veritas Injury Lawyers, a Grand Junction slip and fall lawyer from our team can help you regain stability and ease your road to recovery. We represent injury victims across Colorado, working to recover the full compensation they deserve.
Slip and fall cases are often more complex than they appear. The legal assessment involves examining the conditions of the premises, the cause of the fall, and the actions of both the property owner and the injured party. It is essential to collect evidence—such as photos of the hazard, witness statements, and medical records—and understand local building codes and safety regulations. Our talented personal injury attorneys excel at navigating these complexities to build strong, results-driven cases for our clients.
What Is the Colorado Slip & Fall Statute of Limitations?
When it comes to slip and fall claims in Colorado, the statute of limitations is 2 years from the date of the accident. If the victim has died due to the slip and fall, the loved ones would instead file a wrongful death claim. In this situation, the statute of limitations is 2 years from the date of the person’s death.
Statutes of limitations are designed to ensure cases are pursued with reasonable diligence. Failing to file within this period is a common pitfall that can deny victims their day in court. Therefore, consulting with a knowledgeable attorney soon after an accident is essential to preserve your rights. We advise gathering all relevant documents and discussing your situation with legal professionals promptly to ensure no crucial deadlines are missed.
Common Causes of Slip & Fall Accidents
A slip and fall accident can happen anywhere at any time in Colorado, though our state’s cold, icy winters definitely create more hazards. However, hazardous conditions can extend far beyond slippery ice.
Common causes of slip and fall accidents include:
- Weather-related conditions, such as puddles, snow, or water that has not been cleared away by the property owner
- Uneven and rough driveways and walkways
- Carpets, loose rugs, or any untethered objects that have wheels
- Spills and other slippery surfaces on the floor
- Broken stairwells or balconies
- Insufficient lighting
- Poor security
In many cases, these hazards exist due to the negligence of property managers or owners failing to perform regular maintenance checks or ignoring safety standards. For instance, water accumulation on floors may arise from leaking pipes, structural faults, or oversight during cleaning, all of which require prompt attention. Additionally, poorly installed or maintained carpets pose a significant risk and often reflect inadequate property oversight. Addressing these factors is necessary for preventing accidents and ensuring safe environments.
Common Injuries from Slip & Fall Accidents in Grand Junction
These accidents can be dangerous and can lead to a variety of injuries, including:
- Cuts, scrapes, and bruises
- Fractures and broken bones
- Sprained and twisted ankles
- Brain and other head injuries, including concussions
- Spine and back injuries
These injuries, particularly those affecting the head and spine, can have severe consequences requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. The financial burden from long-term therapy, surgeries, or lost wages due to inability to work can be overwhelming. Immediate medical attention can not only aid recovery but also serve as crucial documentation for any legal proceedings. Understanding the full impact of such injuries is essential to seeking adequate compensation and support.