There are various hazards a person can encounter when walking in public, whether it be crowds and foot traffic, curbs, crossing the street, etc. Exposed cables and wires create a serious danger to passersby whether they are laid on the street, sidewalk, or inside a building or venue. These hazards can lead to a trip and fall accident and serious injuries. After tripping over exposed wires in a public place, consider the following tips on what actions to take and consult with an experienced Middlesex County premises liability attorney for representation and legal advice.
Does Premises Liability Law Apply to Exposed Wires and Cables?
When you trip over an exposed wire in a public place, an important legal concept that applies is premises liability. Premises liability is the legal responsibility of property owners to maintain a safe environment for those legally on their property. In a private home, this would be invited guests, whereas in public spaces it could be any visitor, customer, or passerby.
If you are injured in a public place due to the negligence of the property owner, you may have the right to file a premises liability claim for your injuries and expenses. To successfully do so you must prove the following.
- The property owner knew or should have known about the hazard
- The property owner failed to take reasonable steps to fix the issue
- Your accident and injuries were a direct result of the hazard
What Should I Do After Tripping Over Exposed Wires in Public?
After tripping over exposed wires in public, consider the following steps.
- Assess your injuries: Your number one priority should be your physical health. Evaluate how you feel and be careful when getting up or moving around. Call for an ambulance if necessary.
- Document the accident: If possible, document as much as you can about the scene of the accident. Take photos and/or videos of the wires that caused your fall, additional hazards that contributed, visible injuries, and more. Check to see if there were warnings, speak with eyewitnesses, and ensure an accident report is filed with the property owner or a representative.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you think you are fine or if your pain is minimal, it is highly recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately obvious but can worsen or lead to serious issues if left untreated. Creating a paper trail of medical information will also be helpful if you decide to pursue legal action.
- Talk to a lawyer: It is crucial that you are made aware of your rights after tripping over an exposed wire and hurting yourself. Speak with an attorney to learn more about your legal options.
- File a claim: File a premises liability claim against the negligent property owner for compensation and damages. You can recover compensation for your medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, loss of income, and more.
- File a lawsuit: If your claim is denied or does not satisfy the total amount of damages, consider filing a lawsuit against the property owner. Speak with your attorney for more information and advice.
