Slip and fall accidents due to wet floors are a common cause of personal injury claims. If you’ve been injured after slipping on a wet floor, you may wonder if the building owner is responsible for your injuries. The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the laws in your state and the circumstances of your accident.

When is a Building Owner Responsible?

In most states, building owners are required to take reasonable precautions to protect visitors from hazards, such as wet floors caused by water tracked in from outside. For instance, after a rainstorm, property owners may be expected to address the potential risks posed by wet entryways.

Exceptions to Liability

However, in some states, property owners are not required to take extra precautions if the hazard is considered obvious. For example, if it is raining, visitors are generally aware that water might be tracked inside and are expected to exercise reasonable care when walking through a building.

Slip and Fall Laws in Texas

In Texas, the concept of comparative fault plays a significant role in determining liability. You must prove that you were less than 50% responsible for the accident to recover compensation for your injuries. If you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you will not be eligible for compensation.

When Can a Building Owner Be Held Liable?

In cases of a slippery floor, a building owner may be found liable if:

• A structural defect exacerbated the danger. For example, if a protruding nail contributed to a fall on a wet floor, the owner could be held responsible.
• Additional hazards were present. For instance, a mixture of water and a slippery cleaning agent could create a more dangerous condition, potentially leading to the owner’s liability.

Proving Negligence

In many states, liability depends on whether the building owner was negligent. This means proving that the owner either knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to address it within a reasonable amount of time. For example, a wet floor with no warning signs could be considered negligence if the hazard was left unattended for an unreasonable period.

What Should You Do After a Slip and Fall?

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, there are steps you can take to protect your rights:

• Seek medical attention immediately.
• Document the scene by taking photos or videos of the hazard.
• Report the incident to the property owner or manager.
• Gather witness statements if anyone saw the accident.
• Consult an experienced personal injury attorney.

How Our Texas Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help

At Roberts & Roberts, we understand how overwhelming it can be to recover from a slip and fall injury. Our experienced Texas personal injury attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. We have the resources to investigate your case, prove liability, and negotiate on your behalf.

Don’t face this challenging time alone. Contact us today to learn more about your rights and options.