Not every fall is a case. When it is, it needs to be proven fast.

Property owners have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for customers and guests. When a store, apartment complex, hotel, or business ignores a dangerous condition and someone is seriously hurt, the owner can be held responsible.

Texas premises cases are harder to win than most people expect. Josh Hopkins will tell you honestly whether you have a case, and handles every case he takes personally.

What You Have To Prove in Texas

For most customers and guests, Texas law requires proof that:

• A condition on the property created an unreasonable risk of harm
• The owner knew about it, or should have known about it
• The owner failed to fix it or adequately warn about it
• That failure caused your injury

The hardest part is usually proving what the owner knew and when. Surveillance video, inspection logs, and prior incident reports can be critical, and stores don’t keep them forever.

Common Premises Hazards

• Wet or slippery floors without warning
• Broken stairs, handrails, and walkways
• Poor lighting
• Uneven pavement and parking lot hazards
• Falling merchandise
• Inadequate security leading to assaults

What To Do After a Fall

1. Report the fall to the manager and ask for a copy of the incident report.
2. Take photos of exactly what caused the fall, before it’s cleaned up.
3. Get witness names and phone numbers.
4. Keep your shoes and clothing.
5. Get medical care right away.
6. Call a lawyer quickly so a request can be sent to preserve video.

Compensation You May Be Able To Recover

Depending on the facts, injured people may be able to seek compensation for:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Physical pain and mental anguish
• Physical impairment and disfigurement

Don’t Wait — Deadlines Apply

Every claim has a legal deadline to file, and some are much shorter than people expect, especially claims involving a government vehicle, property, or employee, which can require written notice within months. Missing a deadline can end a claim permanently. The deadline in your case depends on your specific facts, so talk to a lawyer as soon as possible.

This information is general and is not legal advice. Reading this website or contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I was partly at fault?

Under Texas law, you can still recover if you were 50 percent or less responsible. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

How much does it cost?

Nothing up front. Premises liability cases are handled on a contingency fee, so there’s no attorney’s fee unless we recover money for you. The firm advances all case expenses. They are repaid from the recovery, and if there is no recovery, you owe nothing. Fee terms are explained in writing before you sign anything.

Talk to Josh Hopkins Today

If you were seriously injured in a fall, talk to Josh directly. Call 361-31-LAWYR (361-315-2948) or request a free case review online. Se habla español.

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Josh Hopkins is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Lawyer responsible for this content: Josh Hopkins, Corpus Christi, Texas.