Bothell Premises Liability Lawyer
Table of Contents
Premises liability, though it might sound like a complex term, deals with a fundamental concept. It’s about property owners’ responsibility to keep their premises safe for visitors.
When this responsibility is neglected, and someone gets hurt as a result, legal action can be pursued.
Understanding your rights and potential compensation is crucial if you’ve experienced such an unfortunate event. A Bothell premises liability lawyer plays a vital role in such situations.
Murphy Trial Law, being a reputed personal injury law firm in Washington, is equipped with seasoned premises liability attorneys in Bothell who help victims protect their rights.Â
With the dedication and knowledge to handle these cases meticulously, they guide you with your legal options and tirelessly fight for your justice.
Why Contact Murphy Trial Law For Your Premises Liability Case In Bothell, WA?
When faced with a premises liability case, getting a knowledgeable legal partner is crucial.
Murphy Trial Law represents dedication and expertise in Bothell, WA, for such cases. Below are the reasons to choose us:
- Experienced Team: Our team comprises seasoned Bothell premises liability attorneys who specialize in premises liability cases, ensuring the best legal representation.
- Proven Track Record: Our past successes speak for themselves. We have secured favorable verdicts and settlements for countless clients.
- Client-Centric Approach: We prioritize our clients, offering tailored solutions, transparent communication, and unparalleled support throughout the legal journey.
- No Win, No Fee: We work on a contingency fee basis. If we don’t secure a win for you, you owe us nothing.
- Local Expertise: Being based in Bothell, we are well-acquainted with the state laws, ensuring a strategic approach in line with Washington’s legal landscape.
Washington Premises Liability Law
Property owners and occupiers in Washington have a duty to ensure the safety of those who enter their premises. This obligation covers both public and private properties, from residential homes to businesses.Â
If a visitor, whether an invitee or licensee, gets injured due to the owner’s negligence, the owner can be held liable for the damages.Â
Washington’s legal framework stipulates specific laws governing these cases, providing a roadmap for injured parties seeking justice.
Statute Of Limitations For A Premises Liability Case In Bothell, WA
In Bothell, as in the rest of Washington, victims of premises liability have a limited timeframe to initiate a lawsuit.
The state law mandates a three-year statute of limitations from the injury date. It’s imperative to act promptly; any delay beyond this period might lead to the dismissal of the case, regardless of its merit.Â
Consulting a Bothell premises liability lawyer early ensures timely filing and maximizes the chances of a favorable outcome.
Common Causes Of A Premises Accident
Accidents on premises are not uncommon and can range from minor slips to major injuries. These accidents are often due to a variety of factors, many of which can be prevented with the right measures in place.Â
Identifying these factors is crucial, not just for victims seeking redress, but for property owners aiming to provide a safe environment.
Slippery Floors
Wet or freshly polished floors are among the leading causes of slip-and-fall accidents on properties. Whether it’s due to a spilled beverage, rainwater tracked indoors, or a recent mopping, such surfaces can become hazard zones. Property owners have a duty to either address these slippery areas immediately or to put up clear signage warning visitors of the potential danger.
Uneven Surfaces
Surfaces that are not level, such as broken tiles, potholes, or cracked pavements, can pose a tripping hazard. Such inconsistencies on walking paths, especially if they are not clearly visible, can lead to unexpected accidents.
Poor Lighting
Inadequate lighting in areas like stairwells, parking lots, or hallways can conceal hazards, making it challenging for individuals to see and avoid potential pitfalls. Proper illumination is essential for safety, especially in areas frequented during nighttime or low-light conditions.
Faulty Staircases or Handrails
Stairs that are in poor condition or lacking handrails can be a significant risk factor. A single loose step or an unstable handrail can result in falls, sometimes with severe consequences.
Obstructed Walkways
Items left carelessly on pathways, such as toys, tools, or other debris, can lead to tripping accidents. Property owners must ensure walkways are clear and free of obstructions.
Inadequate Security
In some cases, lack of proper security measures can result in harm to visitors, especially in areas known for criminal activity. Adequate lighting, surveillance cameras, and security personnel can deter such incidents.
Electrical Hazards
Exposed wires, faulty outlets, or other electrical issues can pose serious risks, including electrical shocks or fires. Regular maintenance and safety checks can help prevent such hazards.
Unsafe Elevators or Escalators
Malfunctioning elevators or escalators can result in injuries, from doors closing unexpectedly to sudden stops. Routine inspections and maintenance are crucial for these machines.
Exposed Sharp Edges or Corners
Unprotected sharp edges or corners, often on furniture or fixtures, can cause cuts, bruises, or more severe injuries, especially if they’re at a height where they can impact someone’s head or face.
Poorly Maintained Pools or Spas
Improperly maintained pools or spas can result in various accidents, from slips on wet surfaces to more serious issues like drowning, especially if safety measures like barriers or lifeguards are not in place
Common Injuries After A Premises Accident
Accidents on someone else’s property can have varied consequences depending on the circumstances.
Many factors, including the location, cause of the accident, and the individual’s age and health, play a part in determining the severity of the injury.
Below are listed some common injuries that individuals may suffer in a premises accident.
Sprains and Strains
A sudden twist or unexpected fall can lead to muscles and ligaments getting overextended or torn. Sprains and strains, particularly in ankles, wrists, and back, are common results of such mishaps. The affected area typically swells, becomes painful, and may show signs of bruising. Immediate medical attention is essential to ensure proper healing and to rule out more severe injuries.
Cuts and Abrasions
Open areas with debris, broken fixtures, or sharp objects can lead to cuts and abrasions. Such injuries might seem superficial, but they run the risk of infections, especially if the object causing the injury was dirty or rusty. Depending on the depth and location of the cut, stitches might be required, and there’s always the concern about potential scarring.
Fractures
The suddenness and unpredictability of a fall can cause one to land awkwardly, leading to broken or fractured bones. Commonly fractured bones in premises accidents include wrists, arms, and hips. Such injuries require immediate medical care, and they might necessitate casting, surgery, or even physical therapy in the long run.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Perhaps one of the most severe consequences of a fall is a head injury. A hard blow to the head can lead to traumatic brain injuries, which can have both immediate and long-term effects. Symptoms can range from headaches, dizziness, and nausea to cognitive and behavioral changes. TBIs require urgent medical attention, as the damage might not always be apparent immediately after the accident.
Spinal Cord Injuries
A bad fall or an accident on another’s property can severely impact the spinal cord. Depending on the nature of the injury, it can result in partial or complete paralysis. Such injuries can drastically alter one’s life, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Dislocations
A sudden fall or jolt can force a joint out of its usual position, leading to a dislocation. Commonly dislocated joints include the shoulders, elbows, and fingers. Immediate medical attention is crucial to reset the joint and ensure no accompanying nerve or tissue damage.
Burns
If the premises accident involves fire, chemicals, or hot surfaces, one can suffer from burns. Burns vary in severity from first to third degree and can lead to severe pain, infections, and scarring.
Electric Shocks
Faulty wiring or exposed electrical outlets can lead to electric shocks. The severity of the injury depends on the voltage and duration of exposure. Such accidents can lead to burns, cardiac arrest, or even long-term neurological issues.
Respiratory Issues
Exposure to toxic fumes, chemicals, or poor ventilation in a premise can lead to respiratory problems. Inhalation of such harmful substances can result in immediate choking, coughing, and long-term lung diseases.
Lacerations from Broken Glass
In premises with broken windows or glass fixtures, individuals can suffer deep lacerations. These injuries can result in significant blood loss and may require surgical intervention if tendons or muscles are involved.
Remarkable Settlements​
$1.8 Million
Favorable liability verdict
$1.6 Million
A man injured in rear end car crash
$1.1 Million
Car crash
$1 Million
Wrongful death
$1 Million
Low impact car crash
$1 Million
Car crash, limits tender (Briseno)
Negligence In A Premises Liability Accident
Negligence often stands at the center of legal disputes in premises liability cases. It is the failure to exercise the standard of care expected of a reasonable person in a similar situation.Â
For a property owner, this means maintaining a safe environment for visitors, be they guests, customers, or even trespassers in certain circumstances.Â
When property owners breach their duty of care, leading to injury or harm, they can be held legally accountable for the resultant damages.
Understanding and proving negligence is crucial in securing rightful compensation in a premises liability case.
Determining Compensation In Premises Liability Case
When involved in a premises liability incident, understanding compensation dynamics becomes essential.Â
The compensation amount depends on various factors, including the severity of the injury, the negligence level of the property owner, and the incurred medical expenses.
Engaging a skilled Bothell premises liability lawyer ensures that the right parties are held accountable and that victims receive the compensation they rightly deserve.
Economic Damages
Economic damages refer to the measurable financial losses a victim incurs due to an accident. These damages can be calculated with precision based on bills, receipts, and documented losses.Â
Securing these damages helps in negating the financial setbacks victims experience due to the accident.
- Medical Expenses: Covers the cost of immediate medical care, future treatments, rehabilitation, and any other healthcare costs.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for lost earnings while recovering and potential future lost earnings.
- Property Damage: Repairs or replacements for personal property damaged in the accident.
- Rehabilitation Costs: Expenses for physical or occupational therapy and other rehabilitative treatments.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are intangible losses that can’t be easily quantified. They account for the emotional and psychological distress faced by a victim post-accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional anguish endured due to the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment: Reduced ability to engage in enjoyable activities or hobbies.
- Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges resulting from the incident.
- Loss of Companionship: If the accident severely affected the victim’s relationship with their loved ones.
Shared Liability In A Premises Accident
Potential liability parties in premises accidents can range from individual property owners to business entities or even governmental bodies, depending on where the accident took place.Â
In certain premises liability cases, both the property owner and the injured party may share some degree of fault. This concept, known as shared or comparative negligence, means that the compensation a victim can receive may be reduced by the percentage of their fault in the incident.
 For instance, if a person is found 20% at fault for their injuries due to inattentiveness, their total compensation may be reduced by that percentage.Â
Understanding this principle is crucial, as it can significantly influence the outcome of a claim.
What To Do After An Injury In A Premises Liability Accident?
Experiencing an injury on someone else’s property can be distressing. Your immediate actions post-accident can play a pivotal role in ensuring your well-being and strengthening your potential legal claim.Â
You should consider the following steps after a premises liability accident.
- Immediate Medical Attention: Always prioritize your health. Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor. Hidden injuries may manifest later, and having a medical record can be vital for a claim.
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- Document the Scene: Use your phone to capture pictures of where you were injured, the potential hazards, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be invaluable later.
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- Notify the Property Owner or Manager: Informing them about the incident can be crucial. They might have their procedures or forms for such incidents.
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- Gather Witness Information: If anyone saw the accident, take their names and contact details. Eyewitness accounts can bolster your claim.
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- Preserve Evidence: Along with photos, keep any clothing or shoes you were wearing at the time, and don’t wash them. They might be used as evidence.
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- Avoid Making Statements: Refrain from discussing fault or giving statements, especially to insurance adjusters or property representatives, until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
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- Contact a Bothell Premises Liability Lawyer: Before filing a claim, consult with an attorney to understand your rights and the potential value of your case.
Contact Murphy Trial Law For Premises Liability Case In Bothell, WA
In the aftermath of a premises liability incident, victims often grapple with medical bills, physical pain, emotional trauma, and sometimes, an inability to work.
It’s a challenging and confusing period, and legal intricacies can add to the stress.
Murphy Trial Law stands committed to helping our clients navigate this complex legal landscape with confidence.
Our Bothell premises liability lawyers work diligently to help you receive the compensation you deserve. From thorough case investigations to aggressive negotiations and courtroom representation, we provide comprehensive support every step of the way.
Choose Murphy Trial Law for dedicated legal assistance and safeguard your rights. Contact us now.
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