Why You Need a Lawyer for Your Slip and Fall Case in Charleston
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere—in a grocery store, a restaurant, or even on a poorly maintained sidewalk. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to hazardous conditions on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation. However, premises liability law in South Carolina is complex, and proving negligence can be challenging. That’s why having an experienced Charleston slip and fall attorney on your side is crucial.
Understanding Premises Liability Law in South Carolina
Premises liability law holds property owners accountable for maintaining safe conditions for visitors. Under South Carolina law, property owners must take reasonable steps to prevent hazards that could cause harm. However, not every slip and fall incident automatically qualifies for compensation. To prove liability, the following must be established:
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Duty of care
The property owner had a legal responsibility to keep the premises safe.
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Breach of duty
The owner failed to correct or warn about the dangerous condition.
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Causation
The hazardous condition directly caused your injury.
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Damages
You suffered financial, physical, or emotional losses due to the accident.
Without strong legal representation, proving these elements can be difficult, especially when property owners and insurance companies aggressively defend against claims.
How CFJ Injury Lawyers Can Help You Navigate the Slip and Fall Process
At CFJ Injury Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with the aftermath of a slip and fall accident. Our team, with over 40 years of combined experience, has successfully helped clients recover compensation in complex personal injury cases.
Attorney Catherine F. Juhas brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, having practiced law across multiple jurisdictions, including South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington D.C., and the U.S. District Court of South Carolina. As an Adjunct Professor at the Charleston School of Law, she stays at the forefront of legal developments, ensuring that clients receive top-tier representation.
Attorney Eric Saleme has dedicated his career to personal injury and workers’ compensation cases since 2013. Fluent in Spanish, he is passionate about ensuring that all clients, including Charleston’s Latin-American community, have access to fair and effective legal representation.
When you work with CFJ Injury Lawyers, you can expect:
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A Personalized Case Assessment
Every slip and fall case is unique. We take the time to understand your specific situation, review medical records, and determine the best course of action to maximize your compensation.
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Evidence Collection and Investigation
Our team will conduct a thorough investigation to collect crucial evidence, including surveillance footage, accident reports, and expert testimony, to prove negligence and liability.
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Aggressive Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts. We have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
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Litigation Support If Necessary
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our seasoned trial attorneys are prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights.
South Carolina Slip and Fall Statistics
Understanding the prevalence of slip and fall accidents in South Carolina underscores the importance of legal representation:
- According to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), falls are a leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations in the state.
- The National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI) reports that slip and fall accidents account for over 1 million emergency room visits annually in the U.S.
- Falls are the second leading cause of workplace injuries in South Carolina, often resulting in workers’ compensation claims.
FAQs About Slip and Fall Cases in Charleston
Q: How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in South Carolina?
A: Under South Carolina’s statute of limitations, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
Q: What if I was partially at fault for my fall?
A: South Carolina follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages if you were less than 51% responsible for the accident.
Q: What kind of compensation can I receive?
A: Compensation may cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs.
Q: How much does it cost to hire a slip and fall lawyer?
A: At CFJ Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Contact CFJ Injury Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a slip and fall injury in Charleston, don’t face the legal process alone. Our dedicated legal team is here to fight for the compensation you deserve.