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    Slip and fall accidents in Charleston happen more often than most people realize. A simple trip in a grocery store or a fall on a poorly maintained sidewalk can lead to serious injuries. When a property owner fails to keep their premises safe, the consequences can disrupt your daily life, leading to unexpected medical bills, missed work, and long recovery periods.

    If you’ve suffered an injury in a slip-and-fall accident because of someone else’s negligence, an experienced Charleston slip-and-fall accident lawyer can help you recover the compensation you deserve.

    Joye Law Firm has been helping injured individuals in Charleston since 1968. You have the legal right to hold negligent property owners accountable, but you need an attorney to help you navigate the process and advocate for your best interests. Our team provides free case evaluations to help you understand your rights and what steps to take next. Contact us today to learn more.

    Real Results for Charleston Slip and Fall Victims

    If you’ve been injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, you need a legal team with a proven track record of success. At Joye Law Firm, we’ve helped slip and fall victims in Charleston secure the compensation they deserve. Here are a few of our notable premises liability settlements:

    $2.75 Million Settlement for Tourist Injured in Walkway Collapse

    While visiting Charleston, a tourist suffered severe injuries when a poorly maintained elevated walkway at a local business collapsed beneath him. He fell 14 feet, sustaining multiple fractures and internal injuries. His condition worsened and he ultimately required amputation of his foot. Joye Law Firm refused to accept the insurer’s initial offer leading to a $2.75 million settlement to cover the victim’s current and future medical costs, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Read the full case study.

    Confidential Settlement for a Toddler Struck by Falling Boxes

    A three-year-old was shopping with his mother when several large boxes fell from an overloaded shelf, fracturing his leg. His treatment included traction, surgery, and a half-body cast. Joye Law Firm’s investigation found improper stocking and poor shelving design caused the collapse. Claims were pursued against both the retailer and the shelving manufacturer, leading to a significant settlement covering the child’s medical care and holding retailers accountable for safety. Read the full case study.

    $1.8 Million Settlement for an Elevator Shaft Fall

    While staying at a vacation rental on Folly Beach, a woman fell down an unsecured elevator shaft, suffering multiple broken bones. Joye Law Firm demonstrated the property owner’s negligence and secured a $1.8 million settlement, ensuring the client received necessary medical care and financial support for future needs.

    Every case is unique and while we are proud of these results and they do not guarantee a similar outcome for your case, it’s imperative that if you have suffered an injury due to poorly maintained facilities, you hire a lawyer who has a track record of success in cases like yours. Joye Law Firm has the experience and resources to fight for the compensation you need. Contact us today for a free consultation.

    What Causes Slip and Fall Accidents in Charleston?

    Various hazards contribute to slip-and-fall accidents in Charleston. Under South Carolina law, property owners must keep their premises reasonably safe. When they fail to do so, dangerous conditions can lead to serious injuries.

    Wet or Slippery Floorsslip and fall on wet and slippery floor

    Spills, leaks, and freshly mopped surfaces create hazards in places like grocery stores, restaurants, and office buildings. Business owners should clean up spills promptly and post warnings when floors are wet.

    Poor Lighting Conditions

    Dim or broken lights make it difficult to see hazards in hallways, stairwells, and parking garages. Insufficient lighting increases the risk of falls, especially in areas with uneven flooring or steps.

    Uneven Walking Surfaces

    Cracked sidewalks, loose floor tiles, and warped wooden planks create tripping hazards. Public spaces, retail stores, and apartment complexes must ensure walking surfaces remain in good condition.

    Damaged Stairs or Handrails

    A missing or loose handrail can make stairways unsafe. If steps are broken or improperly designed, the risk of falling increases significantly. Property owners must inspect stairways regularly and fix hazards before someone gets hurt.

    Weather-Related Hazards (Ice, Rain)

    Charleston’s frequent rainstorms and brief winter weather can leave sidewalks, parking lots, and entryways slick. While property owners can’t control the weather, they should take reasonable precautions, such as applying slip-resistant materials, using absorbent mats, or ensuring walkways are clear and safe.

    Inadequate Warning Signs

    If a hazard isn’t immediately fixable, property owners must warn visitors. Whether it’s a wet floor sign or a notice about an uneven surface, proper signage helps prevent accidents.

    Building Code Violations

    South Carolina has building codes designed to ensure safety. If a property owner ignores these regulations—such as failing to provide proper handrails, installing uneven steps, or allowing dangerous walkways—they may be liable for any resulting injuries.

    Common Locations for Charleston Slip-and-Fall Accidents

    Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, but some locations present higher risks due to frequent foot traffic and potential hazards.

    Retail Stores and Shopping Centers
    Retail stores and shopping centers present some of the most common risks. A trip to Citadel Mall for new clothes or a quick grocery run to Harris Teeter or Publix can turn dangerous if store employees neglect spills, leave merchandise in walkways, or fail to repair broken flooring. With the heavy foot traffic in these locations, property owners must remain diligent in preventing hazards.
    Restaurants and Bars
    Charleston’s restaurant and bar scene is another common setting for slip and fall incidents. A night out at a busy bar in West Ashley or dinner at a downtown restaurant can end abruptly if floors become slick from spilled drinks or water tracked in from outside. These establishments require constant upkeep to keep customers safe from slippery surfaces and dimly lit areas.
    Parking Lots and Garages
    Parking lots and garages throughout the city add another layer of risk if hazards like oil spills, potholes, or poor lighting go unaddressed. Local parking garages and supermarket parking lots at stores, like Costco and Walmart, are other locations where people may slip on wet pavement or trip over loose curbs.
    Office Buildings
    Office buildings throughout Charleston must ensure that common areas like stairwells, hallways, and elevators remain free of hazards. A loose handrail or a neglected spill in a breakroom can cause a severe fall, leaving employees and visitors with painful injuries.
    Apartment Complexes
    Slip and fall risks extend to apartment complexes as well. Tenants of Charleston apartment complexes trust that landlords will maintain safe staircases, parking lots, and sidewalks. When landlords ignore broken steps, uneven walkways, or missing handrails, residents and guests can suffer serious falls. In some cases, landlords can also be held responsible if they knew but failed to address criminal activity that results in injuries.
    Public Sidewalks
    Even Charleston’s charming public spaces come with risks. Sidewalks can become treacherous due to cracked pavement and tree roots. King Street’s brick walkways, while picturesque, require careful maintenance to prevent trip hazards. The uneven cobblestones that form parts of Broad Street can create tripping hazards for pedestrians.
    Hotels and Resorts
    Hotels and resorts also see their share of slip and fall accidents, especially with Charleston being a top tourist destination. Whether you’re a guest at a fancy hotel like Charleston Place or Hotel Bennett or opting for a more family-friendly stay at a SpringHill Suites or Holiday Inn, you should expect safe accommodations and well-maintained lobbies and hallways. However, worn carpets, unmarked hazards, and wet floors from cleaning crews can create unexpected dangers. At beachfront resorts on Isle of Palms or Folly Beach, pool decks, outdoor walkways, and sandy floors require extra care to prevent falls. Guests at vacation rental properties, like ones offered through Airbnb and VRBO, are also owed safe and secure structures during their stay.

    Wherever slip and fall accidents occur, they often result from a property owner’s failure to maintain safe conditions. When businesses, landlords, or public agencies neglect hazards, the consequences can result in serious injuries. If you suffered an injury in a slip-and-fall accident in Charleston, you may have the right to seek compensation for your losses.

    Slip and Fall Injuries That Deserve Compensation

    Slip and fall accidents cause more than just minor bruises. Some injuries lead to long-term pain, intensive medical treatment, and reduced mobility.

    Head Trauma and Concussions

    A sudden fall can cause a serious blow to the head, leading to concussions or even traumatic brain injuries. These injuries may require extended medical care and impact cognitive abilities.

    Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

    Falls often result in herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or spinal cord damage. These injuries may cause chronic pain or permanent mobility issues.

    Broken Bones

    A hard fall can break bones, particularly in the wrists, arms, or hips. Older adults are especially vulnerable to fractures that require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.

    Soft Tissue Injuries

    Sprains, torn ligaments, and muscle strains can cause significant pain and mobility issues. These injuries may not be immediately visible but can take weeks or months to heal.

    Hip Fractures

    One of the most serious injuries from falls, hip fractures often require surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Recovery can be long and difficult, especially for older individuals.

    Knee and Ankle Injuries

    Twisted knees and ankles can cause ligament tears or fractures, limiting movement and requiring extensive treatment.

    Emotional Trauma and PTSD

    Beyond physical pain, slip and fall victims may develop anxiety, fear of falling again, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Psychological harm can impact daily life just as much as physical injuries.

    Proving Liability in a Slip and Fall Accident Case

    Property owners must keep their premises safe, and failing to do so can make them responsible for injuries. Proving liability requires evidence of negligence.

    Property Owner’s Duty of Care

    Business owners, landlords, and homeowners have a legal obligation to keep their property reasonably safe for visitors. Ignoring hazards may make them financially liable for accidents.

    Establishing Negligence

    To hold a property owner accountable, you must prove the at-fault party knew—or should have known—about a hazard and failed to fix it. Without a lawyer, this can be a difficult task for victims to prove on their own.

    Documentation Requirements

    Photos, surveillance footage, and medical records help build a strong case. Witness statements can also confirm that the dangerous condition existed. A lawyer can help you collect and preserve this vital evidence to build a strong claim.

    Time Limits for Filing Claims

    South Carolina law imposes a deadline for filing personal injury claims. Acting quickly ensures you don’t lose your right to seek compensation.

    For most personal injury claims, you have three years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit in civil court. If you fail to file within that time, you will lose your right to pursue compensation.

    If your fall involved a governmental entity or occurred on public property, you may have a far shorter time to file and a lot of additional legal complexities.

    In either case, you should speak to an attorney as soon as possible. They can advise you on any deadlines or extensions that apply to your case and file the proper paperwork on time.

    Comparative Negligence Laws in SC

    If you’re partially at fault for the incident, under South Carolina’s comparative negligence rule, you may still seek compensation. However, you should never admit fault or give a recorded or written statement to the insurance company before speaking with an experienced attorney. They can argue against unfair blame to help you obtain full compensation.

    Steps to Take After a Slip-and-Fall

    Taking the right steps after an accident strengthens your case. Be sure to:

    • Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries worsen over time. A doctor’s evaluation documents the harm you suffered and links it to the incident.
    • Report the Incident: Notify the property owner, landlord, or store manager to create a formal record.
    • Document the Scene: If possible, take photos and videos of the scene or location as well as your injuries. Try to capture hazards, lighting conditions, and lack of warning signs.
    • Gather Witness Information: Statements from others who saw the accident help establish fault. Share the witness info with your attorney so they can follow up and obtain depositions if necessary.
    • Preserve Evidence: Keep clothing and shoes worn during the fall, along with any personal items damaged or destroyed in the incident. Don’t wash the clothes you were wearing or send them to the cleaners. Damaged personal property supports claims about unsafe conditions.
    • Contact an Attorney: An experienced lawyer can evaluate your case for free and determine the best course of action. They can handle every aspect of your claim and improve your odds of getting the best results.

    Joye Law Firm Can HelpScenes from Joye Law Firm's Columbia office in May of 2024.

    Our team understands how to build strong cases for slip and fall victims, ensuring property owners and insurance companies take responsibility. A thorough investigation into your accident can reveal the cause of the hazard, whether it was a wet floor in a Daniel Island restaurant, a broken handrail in an apartment complex, or poor lighting in a downtown parking garage. By gathering evidence, including photos, witness statements, expert testimony, and surveillance footage, we work to establish liability and push for fair compensation.

    Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame onto the injured person. Our attorneys handle all communication with insurers, pushing back against unfair settlement offers and negotiating aggressively on your behalf. If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we are prepared to take the case to court to fight for what you deserve.

    Joye Law Firm offers free case evaluations, allowing you to discuss your situation with an attorney at no cost. With our No Fee Guarantee, you won’t have to worry about upfront legal fees—we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. If you or someone you love has been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, contact us today to learn how we can help.

    Compensation We Could Help You Recover:

    A slip and fall settlement may include:

    • Medical expenses for past and future care
    • Lost wages from missed work
    • Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress
    • Loss of earning capacity if injuries prevent returning to work
    • Rehabilitation costs for physical therapy or assistive devices

    Our lawyers will thoroughly assess your case and account for all your damages. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we will take your case to court. We prepare every case we handle as if it were going to trial. Although we settle most cases, you can trust us to fight hard for you in front of a judge or jury if necessary.

    Contact Joye Law Firm Today

    You shouldn’t have to bear the burden of an injury caused by a property owner’s negligence. Joye Law Firm fights for injured individuals in Charleston, and we’re ready to do all we can to help you get the maximum compensation you deserve. Call today at (888) 324-3100 for a free consultation and let us help.

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