Slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries, and they are not always the fault of the victim. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. It is important to understand Oregon’s slip and fall laws and what you need to know to protect your rights.
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What is a Slip and Fall Accident?
A slip and fall accident occurs when someone slips, trips or falls on a surface that is hazardous. The hazardous surface can be caused by a variety of things, including:
- Wet or greasy floors
- Loose carpeting or flooring
- Uneven pavement or sidewalks
- Ice or snow
- Poor lighting
When a hazardous surface has caused a slip and fall accident, the person who owns or controls the property where the accident occurred may be held liable for any injuries that result.
Oregon’s Slip and Fall Laws
Oregon’s slip and fall laws are based on the legal principle of premises liability. Premises liability means that property owners and those who control property have a duty to keep the property in a reasonably safe condition for visitors.
Under Oregon law, a property owner or controller may be held liable for slip and fall accidents if:
- They knew or should have known of the hazardous condition and failed to fix it.
- They created the hazardous condition.
- They failed to adequately warn visitors of the hazardous condition.
Comparative Fault in Oregon Slip and Fall Cases
Oregon follows the legal doctrine of comparative fault, which means that if you contribute to your own slip and fall accident, your damages may be reduced according to your degree of fault. For example, if you were texting and not paying attention to where you were walking and you slipped and fell on a wet floor, you may be found to be partially responsible for the accident.
Under Oregon’s comparative fault rules, your total damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault that is attributed to you. For instance, if you are found to be 30% at fault for your injuries, your damages will be reduced by 30%.
What to Do If You’re Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident
If you are involved in a slip and fall accident, it’s essential to take the following steps:
Seek Medical Attention – Even if you don’t think you’ve been injured, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and documentation of your injuries will help you if you decide to pursue legal action later.
Report the Accident – Report the accident to the property owner or manager as soon as possible, and make sure a written report is filed.
Document the Scene – Take photographs of the area where the accident occurred, and write down the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Contact an Oregon Slip and Fall Attorney – Consult with an experienced Oregon slip and fall attorney to determine your legal options.
Conclusion
Oregon’s slip and fall laws protect individuals who are injured due to a hazardous condition on someone else’s property. If you are involved in a slip and fall accident, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect your rights. Seek medical attention, report the accident, document the scene, and consult with an Oregon slip and fall attorney to determine your legal options.