Property owners in Oklahoma are responsible for ensuring that their properties are safe for visitors and occupants. Slip and fall accidents are common in Oklahoma, and they can result in serious injuries and costly lawsuits. Property owners who fail to maintain a safe property can face legal consequences and financial liabilities. In this article, we will provide an overview of the slip and fall laws in Oklahoma and what property owners need to know to avoid potential legal issues.
Table of Contents
Slip and Fall Accidents in Oklahoma
Slip and fall accidents occur when a person slips, trips, or falls on someone else’s property and gets injured. These injuries can range from minor bruises to severe fractures or head injuries. Slip and fall accidents can happen at any time and anywhere, including:
- Supermarkets and retail stores
- Restaurants and bars
- Hotels and motels
- Office buildings
- Parks and recreational facilities
According to the National Safety Council, slip and fall accidents are among the leading causes of unintentional injuries in the United States, accounting for over 8 million emergency room visits per year.
Liability in Slip and Fall Accidents in Oklahoma
Under Oklahoma law, property owners have a duty of care to ensure that their properties are reasonably safe for visitors and occupants. This duty of care applies to both residential and commercial properties, including public places and private residences. If a property owner fails to maintain a safe property and someone gets injured as a result, the property owner may be liable for the victim’s damages.
To establish liability in a slip and fall case, the injured person must prove that:
- The property owner had a duty of care to maintain a safe property
- The property owner breached that duty by failing to correct a dangerous condition or warn visitors of the hazard
- The breach caused the victim’s injuries
- The victim suffered damages as a result, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contributory Negligence
In Oklahoma, the doctrine of contributory negligence applies in slip and fall cases. This means that if the victim was partially responsible for their injuries, their compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a person slipped and fell on a wet floor at a store but also ignored a warning sign, the court may find them 30% responsible for their injuries and reduce their compensation accordingly.
Statute of Limitations
In Oklahoma, the statute of limitations for filing a slip and fall lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. This means that if a victim fails to file a lawsuit within that timeframe, their case may be dismissed, and they may lose their chance to recover compensation for their damages.
Preventing Slip and Fall Accidents
Preventing slip and fall accidents requires proactive measures from property owners. Some steps that property owners can take to maintain a safe property include:
- Regularly inspecting their property for hazards, such as uneven surfaces, loose fixtures, and wet floors
- Fixing or correcting any hazards as soon as possible
- Posting warning signs for potential hazards, such as wet floors or construction zones
- Providing adequate lighting in hallways, staircases, and parking lots
- Maintaining clear walkways and keeping them free of obstacles
- Training employees on how to maintain a safe environment and respond to potential hazards.
By taking these measures, property owners can reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents and protect themselves from potential legal liabilities.
Conclusion
Slip and fall accidents can have severe consequences for both victims and property owners. Property owners in Oklahoma must take proactive measures to ensure the safety of their visitors and occupants and avoid potential legal issues. By understanding the slip and fall laws in Oklahoma and implementing preventive measures, property owners can protect themselves and maintain a safe environment for everyone.