Every single Pennsylvania citizen has the legal right to pursue compensation against any negligent party who is liable for a slip and fall injury. Of course, most situations where accidents occur aren’t as simple as one person shouldering 100% responsibility. The good news is that you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault in the situation, but you will need an attorney to help in that process.
How Comparative Negligence Affects a PA Slip and Fall Case
Some states completely bar individuals from pursuing compensation if they are even 1% at fault for an accident. Pennsylvania is not one of those states, however. Accident victims can still recover damages, but only if they are determined to be less than 50% responsible for the fall.
Your compensation can also be reduced if you were partially at fault, however. That means the liable party has a very clear interest in placing the blame squarely on your shoulders to pay out less money.
If your case is successful and the liable party is ordered to pay damages, any compensation is reduced according to your percentage of responsibility. If the court decides you were 25% responsible, then your recovered damages will drop by that same amount. That means you could see a reduction in payment for:
- Hospital, medication, and surgery bills
- Missed paychecks while recovering from the fall
- Reduced quality of life and other non-economic damages like pain and suffering
Talk to an Attorney if You Were Partially at-Fault for a Slip and Fall
The possibility of losing a large chunk of compensation is just one reason why it is so important to retain an experienced Pennsylvania slip and fall attorney. A legal professional is needed to perform a detailed investigation into the accident, handle requests from insurance for medical releases, and argue your case in court.
Are you ready to discuss your accident and take the next steps toward a financial recovery? Gary Heslin wants to hear about your slip and fall case. Schedule a consultation to discuss if comparative negligence may impact your compensation by calling 215-332-0300 or sending a message here.
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