Legal Question in Personal Injury in Washington

Re: slip and fall - after previous warning

The first thing you should do is go to a medical provider and have the extent of your injuries checked out and treated. When you fill out the initial examination questionnaire or when you speak to the physician, write or tell them that the injury was the result of a slip and fall outside a restaurant, on debris left on the sidewalk by restaurant personnel. The hospital will then have a lien on any proceeds you might receive from a legal action against the restaurant.

The next thing you should do is follow your doctor�s orders regarding treatment and concentrate on healing. Keep a daily pain journal, noting your symptoms, difficulties performing daily tasks, and medication taken as a result of your injuries. Once you are medically stationary (i.e., when your doctor says you are finished treating, all better, or not going to get any better) you can evaluate whether you have permanent injury, and determine the potential value of a claim against the restaurant.

The restaurant may have a duty under law to keep its entryway and access to its entryway clear of debris. If the restaurant was informed of the existence of the debris before you fell, their responsibility is greater than if they had no knowledge. If the restaurant is found liable for your injuries, the restaurant will be responsible for your economic damages (lost wages, medical bills, other expenses) directly related to the injury, as well as some amount of compensation for pain and suffering. Although under Washington law, you may have three years to file a claim for personal injury against the restaurant, you do not want to wait that long to file a claim or consult with an attorney.

The above does not constitute legal opinion and is offered for the purposes of discussion only. The law differs in every jurisdiction, and you should not rely on any opinion except that of an attorney you have retained, who has a rofessional duty to advise you after being fully informed of all the ertinent facts and who is familiar with the applicable law.

Re: slip and fall - after previous warning

We would be happy to help. Please give me a call to discuss. Thanks!

Ryan

Re: slip and fall - after previous warning

Given the facts as presented it certainly appears the restaurant may have been at fault. If so, they would be responsible for your medical bills. Most personal injury attorneys are willing to consult for free. My advice is to consult with a personal injury attorney. They'll be able to guide you as to obtaining medical care and reimbursement, as well as financial reimbursement for the trauma you have gone through. Please give me a call or email if you have additional questions and I can try to lead you in the right direction.