Slip and fall accidents happen in a split second. One minute you are on your feet walking around, and the next you are flat on your back on the ground. Slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries that can be long lasting if not debilitating and life changing. Among the injuries that can occur in a slip and fall accident include broken legs, broken arms, back injuries and serious head injuries. If you have been injured in Kansas City from a slip and fall accident you may have a viable claim for damages for the injuries you sustained, however you must be able to prove that there was negligence on someone’s part. If you feel you may have a claim for a slip and fall accident in Kansas City it may be worth your time to speak to a skilled Kansas City personal injury lawyer who specializes in personal injury law about your claim. This guide is meant to help you explore your options if you have a slip and fall claim, and how a lawyer could help you with your claim.
What Is a Slip and Fall Claim?
Slip and fall claims are personal injury claims resulting from injury when you’re injured from hazardous conditions on someone else’s property.
Here are some examples as it could happen:
- Wet floor with no signage
- Loose flooring, carpeting
- A broken hand rails or stairs
- Ice on sidewalks, steps (not treated)
- Poor lighting on stairs, walk ways
So essentially, if a property owner did not remediate exhaust and/or did not warn you of hazardous conditions on their property, they may be liable.
Why Kansas City Laws Matter
Kansas and Missouri have different laws. That’s important because Kansas City covers both states. Where your fall happens decides how your case works.
Missouri follows “pure comparative fault.”
This means you can get paid even if you’re partly to blame. Your payout drops based on your share of the fault. If you’re 30% at fault, you still get 70% of the money.
Kansas uses “modified comparative fault.”
Here, you can only get money if you’re less than 50% at fault.
That’s why knowing where you fell — Kansas or Missouri — matters a lot.
See also: Unveiling the Benefits of Request for Proposal Software
When You Can Sue
You can sue if:
- You were legally on the property (not trespassing)
- The owner knew or should have known about the danger
- The owner didn’t fix it or warn you
- The danger caused your fall and injury
Let’s break that down:
If you slipped in a grocery store because of a spilled drink that sat for an hour, the store might be liable. But if it was spilled 30 seconds before your fall, they may not have had enough time to fix it.
How a Lawyer Helps
A personal injury lawyer knows the system. Here’s what they can do for you:
1. Investigate the Accident
They collect:
- Photos or video of the scene
- Accident reports
- Medical records
- Witness statements
These details help build a strong case.
2. Prove Fault
This is key. Lawyers look at:
- Was the hazard obvious?
- Did the owner know about it?
- Was it there long enough to fix?
They might hire experts if needed.
3. Handle Insurance Companies
Insurers want to pay as little as possible. Lawyers know their tricks. They fight to get you fair money.
4. File the Right Paperwork
Every state has time limits, called statutes of limitations.
- In Missouri, you have 5 years to file.
- In Kansas, it’s 2 years.
Lawyers make sure you don’t miss deadlines.
5. Negotiate a Settlement
Most cases settle without court. A lawyer will push for the best offer.
6. Take It to Trial If Needed
If talks fail, your lawyer can take your case to court and present it to a judge or jury.
What You Can Get Paid For
You may get money for:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability
The amount depends on how badly you were hurt and how it affects your life.
Common Defenses Property Owners Use
Even if you’re hurt, the other side may fight your claim. They might say:
- You weren’t paying attention
- The danger was open and obvious
- You were in a place you shouldn’t be
- You wore unsafe shoes
- You ignored warning signs
A lawyer knows how to counter these arguments.
What to Do After a Fall
If you slip and fall:
- Get medical help right away
- Report it to the property owner
- Take photos if you can
- Get names of witnesses
- Don’t give a statement to insurers alone
- Call a lawyer before signing anything
Fast action helps your case.
How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee. That means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- They get paid only if you win
- They take a percent of your payout (usually 33%–40%)
This lets you get legal process help without worrying about money.
How Long Do Claims Take?
Every case is different. Simple cases may settle in a few months. Bigger cases can take a year or more. Trials take longer. Your lawyer can give a timeline after reviewing your case.
Do You Need a Lawyer?
You can file a claim on your own. But if:
- Your injury is serious
- The insurance company denies your claim
- You’re being blamed for the fall
Then you need a lawyer.
They understand the system. They give you the best shot at full payment.
FAQs About Kansas City Slip and Fall Claims
1. What if I slipped on public property like a park or sidewalk?
You may still have a case, but suing the city has strict rules. You must file a notice fast. In Missouri, it’s 90 days. In Kansas, it’s shorter. A lawyer will help you meet deadlines.
2. Can I sue if I was partly at fault?
Yes. Missouri lets you recover even if you’re mostly at fault. Kansas only allows it if you’re under 50% at fault.
3. What if there were no warning signs?
Lack of signs helps your case. Property owners must warn about dangers they know about — like wet floors or repairs.
4. What types of injuries qualify?
Any injury caused by the fall may qualify. Common ones include broken bones, sprains, head trauma, and back pain.
5. Can I still file a claim if I didn’t go to the doctor right away?
Yes, but waiting makes it harder to prove your case. Always seek medical care right after a fall, even if you feel okay.
Final Thoughts
Slip and fall accidents can be both overwhelming! They can happen when you’re least expecting it and can change your life forever. If you have sustained an injury in Kansas City, you shouldn’t just sit there! Contact an affordable Kansas City Slip And Fall Accident Lawyer to represent you, protect your rights, and get you compensated. Don’t wait for it to get better. The sooner you take action, the sooner you will have a better case.
