Slip and Fall

Support When You Need It Most

A slip and fall accident can lead to serious injuries, lost wages, and unexpected medical bills. If you've been hurt on someone else's property in Tennessee, AskLitigation is here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Slip and fall cases are a type of premises liability claim. Our attorneys also handle related matters such as dog bites and wrongful death.

What Counts as a Slip and Fall Accident?

A slip and fall accident occurs when you lose your footing due to a hazardous condition on someone else's property, resulting in injury. Common causes include:

• Wet or slippery floors
• Uneven sidewalks or flooring
• Poor lighting
• Broken stairs or handrails
• Cluttered walkways
• Ice or snow accumulation
• Torn carpeting or loose mats
• Spilled liquids or debris

If you're injured because a property owner failed to maintain safe conditions, you may have a claim under Tennessee law.

Tennessee Laws on Slip and Fall Accidents

Tennessee follows traditional premises liability principles that classify visitors by their legal status:

• Invitees: Business customers and invited guests receive the highest protection
• Licensees: Social guests are owed a duty to warn of known hazards
• Trespassers: Generally owed no duty except to avoid willful harm

Key legal points:

• You have one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim.
• Property owners may be liable if they knew or should have known about the hazard.
• Modified comparative fault applies—you cannot recover if you are 50% or more at fault.
• Claims may involve businesses, landlords, homeowners, or government entities.

What Are Property Owners Required to Do?

The duty owed depends on your status, but generally property owners must:

• For Invitees: Exercise reasonable care to keep premises safe and inspect for hazards
• For Licensees: Warn of known dangerous conditions
• General Duties: Comply with building codes and safety regulations

Failure to meet these obligations can result in liability for injuries.

Proving Your Tennessee Slip and Fall Case

To succeed in your claim, you must typically prove:

1. Legal Status: You were lawfully on the property
2. Dangerous Condition: A hazardous condition existed
3. Knowledge: The owner knew or should have known about the hazard
4. Breach of Duty: The owner failed to exercise reasonable care
5. Causation: The condition caused your fall and injuries
6. Damages: You suffered actual harm and losses

Common Types of Slip and Fall Injuries

Slip and fall accidents can cause serious injuries, including:

• Fractures and broken bones
• Head injuries and concussions
• Spinal cord injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Hip injuries (especially dangerous for elderly victims)
• Cuts and bruises
• Sprains and strains

These injuries can have long-lasting effects on your health and quality of life.

Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall

If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident:

1. Seek immediate medical attention - Your health comes first
2. Report the incident - Notify the property owner, manager, or security
3. Document everything - Take photos of the hazard, scene, and injuries
4. Get witness information - Collect names and contact details
5. Keep all records - Save medical documentation and expenses
6. Don't give recorded statements - Speak with an attorney first
7. Contact a lawyer - Get legal guidance to protect your rights

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Tennessee slip and fall victims may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation)
• Future medical costs
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses

The amount depends on the severity of injuries and the degree of the property owner's fault.

Challenges in Tennessee Slip and Fall Cases

Tennessee slip and fall cases can be challenging because:

• The one-year statute of limitations is very short
• You must prove the property owner had actual or constructive knowledge
• The "open and obvious" defense may apply if the hazard was clearly visible
• Comparative fault rules can reduce or eliminate your recovery

Having experienced legal representation is crucial for overcoming these challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee Slip and Fall Claims

How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in Tennessee?

Tennessee has a one-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including slip and fall cases. This makes it crucial to act quickly to protect your rights.

What if the hazard was obvious?

Tennessee recognizes the 'open and obvious' defense, but it's not an automatic bar to recovery. The specific circumstances of your case will determine whether this defense applies.

Can I sue if I was partially at fault for my fall?

Under Tennessee's modified comparative fault system, you can recover damages only if you are less than 50% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Do I need to prove the property owner knew about the hazard?

Yes, generally you must prove the owner had actual knowledge of the hazard or should have known about it through reasonable inspection and maintenance.

Let's Help You Move Forward

If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident, contact AskLitigation for a free consultation or call (888) 970-8627. Time is critical in Tennessee slip and fall cases.