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A sudden trip-and-fall accident can disrupt your life in an instant, leaving you not only with serious injuries but also with unexpected medical bills, lost wages, and a mountain of legal concerns that can feel impossible to navigate on your own. These incidents often come without warning—one misstep on a wet floor, a poorly maintained sidewalk, or an unmarked hazard can turn an ordinary moment into a life-altering event. At The Piri Law Firm, we are deeply committed to standing by victims of negligence, guiding them through the complexities of these challenging cases with both unmatched expertise and genuine care.
We understand that the physical pain caused by an injury is only one part of the struggle. There’s also the emotional toll of recovering from trauma, the financial stress from mounting medical expenses, and the uncertainty of dealing with missed work and lost wages. Add to this the frustration of navigating insurance claims or holding responsible parties accountable, and it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders.
That’s where we step in. Our mission is to ensure that you receive the justice and fair compensation you deserve, empowering you to reclaim control over your life. With a personalized approach tailored to your unique situation, we take on the burden of the legal process—whether it’s investigating the cause of your fall, gathering evidence, or negotiating with insurance companies. From start to finish, we handle the details so you don’t have to, giving you the time and space to focus fully on what truly matters: your healing, recovery, and overall well-being. At The Piri Law Firm, your voice will always be heard, and your rights will always be protected.
When facing the aftermath of a car accident in Texas, choosing the right attorney can make the difference between a fair settlement and financial hardship. Michael Piri brings over a decade of specialized experience in Texas car accident law, with an intimate understanding of state-specific regulations and insurance practices that affect your case. His proven track record includes securing millions in settlements and verdicts for clients, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex negotiations with insurance companies and deliver results when it matters most. Piri’s deep knowledge of Texas traffic laws, combined with his strategic approach to case preparation, positions him to maximize compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What sets Michael Piri apart is his unwavering commitment to personalized client service and aggressive advocacy. He takes the time to understand each client’s unique circumstances, ensuring that no detail is overlooked in building a compelling case. Piri maintains open communication throughout the legal process, keeping clients informed at every step while handling the complex paperwork and negotiations that can overwhelm accident victims. His contingency fee structure means clients pay nothing unless he wins their case, removing financial barriers to quality legal representation. When you choose Michael Piri, you’re not just hiring an attorney – you’re gaining a dedicated advocate who will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
A simple misstep can change everything. One moment you are walking along, and the next you are on the ground, injured from a trip-and-fall accident. These incidents are unfortunately common and can lead to serious injuries, medical bills, and lost wages. When a fall happens on someone else’s property in Texas, it’s important to understand your rights and the steps you should take.
This post will provide an overview of trip-and-fall accidents, explore common causes, and explain the legal options available to victims in Texas. We will also share practical advice on what to do immediately following such an event.
A trip-and-fall is a type of premises liability case. It occurs when a person trips over an object or an uneven surface, falls, and sustains an injury. These accidents are distinct from slip-and-falls, which are typically caused by wet or slippery surfaces like a freshly mopped floor or an icy walkway.
For a trip-and-fall case to be valid in Texas, the accident must have been caused by a hazardous condition on the property that the owner knew about, or should have known about, and failed to fix or provide adequate warning for.
Many different hazards can lead to a trip-and-fall. Property owners have a responsibility to maintain a safe environment for visitors, which means regularly inspecting for and addressing potential dangers.
Some of the most frequent causes include:
Identifying the specific cause is a critical first step in determining if the property owner was negligent.
In Texas, the law requires that property owners exercise reasonable care to keep their premises safe for certain visitors. Your ability to recover damages depends on your legal status as a visitor at the time of the accident.
There are three categories of visitors:
Most trip-and-fall cases involve invitees. To win a premises liability case as an invitee, you must prove that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to take reasonable steps to remedy it, and that this failure directly caused your injuries.
The actions you take immediately following a fall can significantly impact your ability to seek compensation. If you are injured, try to follow these steps, if possible.
Your health is the top priority. Call for medical help right away, even if you feel your injuries are minor. Some injuries, like concussions or internal damage, may not be immediately apparent. A medical record also creates an official link between the accident and your injuries.
Notify the property owner, manager, or an employee about the incident as soon as it happens. Ask them to create an official report and request a copy for your records. Be clear and factual about what happened without admitting fault.
Use your phone to document the scene thoroughly. Take pictures and videos of the specific hazard that caused you to fall, the surrounding area, any visible injuries, and the lighting conditions. If there were no warning signs, be sure to capture that as well.
If anyone saw the accident, ask for their name and contact information. Witness testimony can be incredibly valuable in corroborating your version of events and demonstrating the hazardous condition.
The shoes and clothing you were wearing are important evidence. Do not wash them. Store them in a safe place, as they may be needed to help reconstruct the incident.
Navigating a trip-and-fall claim in Texas can be complex. Property owners and their insurance companies often try to argue that the victim was not paying attention or is otherwise at fault. Texas follows a “modified comparative fault” rule, which means if you are found to be 51% or more responsible for the accident, you cannot recover any damages.
An experienced personal injury attorney can help you:
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trip-and-fall accident, taking swift and informed action is key. By understanding your rights and consulting with a legal expert, you can protect your interests and focus on your recovery.
Michael Piri is known for his empathetic and personalized approach to each case. He ensures that every client receives individualized attention and support, making them feel valued and understood during challenging times.
Exclusively serving the Latino community, Michael Piri's fluency in Spanish and French allows him to communicate effectively with a diverse range of clients, ensuring they feel comfortable and confident throughout the legal process.
With a history of winning multiple personal injury cases, Michael Piri has demonstrated his ability to secure favorable outcomes for his clients, whether through settlements or litigation.
Michael Piri offers round-the-clock support and free 30-minute consultations, ensuring that clients can access legal guidance whenever they need it, without financial pressure upfront.
From car accidents to whiplash, truck accidents, and more, Michael Piri has extensive experience in handling various types of personal injury cases, making him a versatile and knowledgeable advocate for accident victims.
A simple misstep can alter your life in the blink of an eye. One moment, you’re walking through a familiar grocery store, navigating a professional office building, or enjoying a public park, and the next, you find yourself on the ground, injured and overwhelmed by pain. These trip-and-fall accidents happen more often than many realize and can result in severe injuries, such as broken bones, sprains, or even head trauma. The aftermath often includes mounting medical bills, time away from work leading to lost wages, and significant personal and emotional suffering that can feel impossible to navigate alone.
In Texas, dealing with the legal complexities of a trip-and-fall accident can be both challenging and intimidating, especially when you’re already trying to recover physically and emotionally. But you don’t have to face this journey by yourself. Michael Piri is a dedicated attorney who specializes in providing expert legal guidance tailored to your unique situation. With a compassionate and personalized approach, he works to ease the challenges you’re facing, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. He deeply understands how life-changing these accidents can be, not just on a physical level but also on an emotional and financial one, and he is committed to helping you rebuild after such an incident.
This post will take a closer look at the essential elements of trip-and-fall claims in Texas, breaking down what you need to know to move forward. We’ll discuss common causes of these accidents, such as uneven flooring, slippery surfaces, or obstacles left in walkways—hazards that can often be prevented with proper maintenance and attention from property owners. We’ll also examine what Texas law says about a property owner’s responsibility to maintain a safe environment and how failing to uphold that duty can lead to serious consequences.
Navigating these claims requires an understanding of your legal rights and a clear path forward, which is why having an experienced attorney like Michael Piri on your side can make all the difference. By offering insight into the legal process and advocating on your behalf, he works to help you secure the justice and fair compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Taking that first step—understanding your rights and seeking the right legal support—can be the key to moving forward after such a difficult experience.
Trip-and-fall incidents fall under an area of law known as premises liability. This legal principle holds property owners responsible for maintaining a safe environment for visitors. When they fail to do so, and someone gets hurt as a result, the owner can be held liable for the resulting damages.
These accidents can happen anywhere, from commercial properties like shopping malls and restaurants to private residences and public spaces. The injuries sustained can range from minor scrapes and bruises to severe conditions like broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and spinal cord damage. The long-term impact can affect your ability to work, enjoy daily activities, and maintain your quality of life.
A hazardous condition is often the root cause of a trip-and-fall accident. Property owners have a legal duty to regularly inspect their premises and either repair dangers or provide adequate warning. Some of the most frequent causes include:
Proving a premises liability case in Texas is more complicated than simply showing you fell and got hurt on someone else’s property. To have a successful claim, you and your attorney must establish several key elements.
Under Texas law, you generally need to prove the following:
One of the biggest hurdles is proving the property owner had “actual or constructive knowledge” of the hazard. This means showing they either knew about the specific danger or that the condition existed for long enough that they should have discovered it through reasonable care. This often requires a thorough investigation, including gathering evidence like photos, witness statements, and incident reports.
Facing a legal battle while recovering from an injury can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. This is where Michael Piri’s expertise becomes your greatest asset. With a deep understanding of Texas premises liability law, he levels the playing field and advocates fiercely for your rights.
Michael Piri recognizes that behind every case is a person whose life has been disrupted. He takes the time to listen to your story, understand the full impact of your injuries, and offer genuine support. This compassionate approach ensures you feel heard and valued throughout the legal process. He handles the complexities of your case so you can focus on what matters most—your recovery.
Michael Piri has extensive experience handling trip-and-fall claims across Texas. He knows what it takes to build a strong case. His process includes:
A trip-and-fall accident can leave you with physical pain, emotional distress, and financial uncertainty. You should not have to carry this burden alone. With Michael Piri as your advocate, you gain a dedicated partner committed to helping you navigate this difficult time and secure the compensation needed to move forward.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trip-and-fall accident in Texas, do not wait to seek legal help. Contact Michael Piri today to schedule a confidential, no-obligation consultation. Let him help you understand your options and fight for the justice you deserve.
Here’s a list of 10 common premises liability accident injuries in Texas, along with brief descriptions for each:
WhiplashA neck injury caused by the rapid back-and-forth motion of the head during a collision. It often results in pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
Broken BonesFractures in arms, legs, ribs, or other bones due to the impact of the crash. Severity can range from minor cracks to complex breaks requiring surgery.
Head InjuriesIncludes concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries (TBI) caused by the head striking a surface or sudden jolts. Symptoms can range from mild headaches to severe cognitive impairments.
Spinal Cord InjuriesDamage to the spinal cord that can lead to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often have long-term or permanent effects on mobility and sensation.
Soft Tissue InjuriesDamage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, such as sprains or strains. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement.
Internal InjuriesDamage to internal organs like the liver, spleen, or lungs caused by blunt force trauma. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Cuts and LacerationsDeep cuts or wounds caused by broken glass, debris, or sharp objects during the crash. These injuries may require stitches or lead to scarring.
Chest InjuriesBruising, broken ribs, or damage to internal organs in the chest area, often caused by seatbelts or impact with the steering wheel.
BurnsCaused by fires, hot surfaces, or chemicals during the accident. Burns can range from minor to severe and may require skin grafts or long-term care.
Psychological InjuriesEmotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression, which can develop after experiencing a car accident.
The steps you take right after an accident are critical for both your health and any future legal claim.
First, seek medical attention, even if you feel your injuries are minor. Some serious conditions, like internal injuries or concussions, may not present symptoms right away. Paramedics can assess you at the scene, or you can go to an emergency room or urgent care center. A medical record creates an official link between the incident and your injuries.
Next, report the accident to the property owner, manager, or an employee on duty. Ensure they create an official incident report and ask for a copy. If they refuse to create a report, write down the name of the person you spoke with, the date, and the time.
Finally, document everything. Take clear photos or videos of the exact location where you fell, paying close attention to the hazard that caused your fall (e.g., a cracked sidewalk, a loose cord, poor lighting). Also, take pictures of your injuries. If there were any witnesses, get their names and contact information. Their testimony could be invaluable later.
In Texas, property owners have a legal duty to maintain a reasonably safe environment for visitors. This is a key principle of premises liability law. However, the extent of this duty depends on your status as a visitor at the time of the accident.
To prove liability, you must show that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to take reasonable steps to fix it or warn you about it.
This is a common defense in trip-and-fall cases. However, a property owner cannot simply claim ignorance to avoid responsibility. The legal standard is whether the owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition.
To establish that the owner "should have known," you and your attorney will need to show that the hazard existed for a long enough period that a reasonably attentive property owner would have discovered it through regular inspection and maintenance. For example, if you tripped on a broken tile that was discolored and worn, it suggests the problem was not new. Witness testimony, maintenance logs, and security footage can all help prove the owner had a reasonable opportunity to address the issue.
Yes, you can. Texas follows a "modified comparative fault" rule, also known as proportionate responsibility. Under this rule, you can still recover damages as long as your share of the fault is 50% or less.
However, any compensation you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if a jury determines you are 20% responsible for the accident (perhaps because you were looking at your phone) and your total damages are $50,000, your award would be reduced by 20% ($10,000), leaving you with $40,000. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages under Texas law.
If your trip-and-fall claim is successful, you may be entitled to recover several types of damages to compensate for your losses. These are typically categorized as economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages are tangible financial losses, including:
Non-economic damages are intangible losses, which can include:
In rare cases involving gross negligence or malice, you might also be awarded punitive damages, which are intended to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct.
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including trip-and-fall accidents, is generally two years from the date the injury occurred. This means you have two years to either settle your claim with the insurance company or file a lawsuit in court.
If you miss this deadline, you will almost certainly lose your right to seek compensation. While there are a few very specific exceptions, it is crucial to act quickly. Contacting a personal injury attorney well before the deadline gives them ample time to investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong claim on your behalf.
While a fall can happen anywhere, most trip-and-fall incidents are caused by preventable hazards that result from poor maintenance or negligence. Common examples include:
Proving that one of these specific hazards caused your fall is a cornerstone of a successful premises liability claim.
While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer, it is highly recommended. Trip-and-fall cases are more complex than they appear. Property owners and their insurance companies often fight these claims aggressively, arguing that the hazard was "open and obvious" or that you were at fault.
An experienced personal injury attorney understands the nuances of Texas premises liability law. They can handle all aspects of your case, including:
Having a legal expert on your side levels the playing field and significantly increases your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Filing a claim against a government entity in Texas is different and more complex than suing a private citizen or company. The Texas Tort Claims Act waives sovereign immunity for certain types of claims, but it imposes strict rules and shorter deadlines.
For example, you must provide a formal written notice of the claim to the correct government unit (e.g., the city, county, or state) much sooner than the two-year statute of limitations. This notice period can be as short as 45 or 90 days, depending on the municipality. Failing to provide proper notice on time can completely bar your claim. Due to these complexities, it is vital to contact an attorney immediately if your accident occurred on public property.
Most personal injury lawyers, including those who handle trip-and-fall cases, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay any upfront fees. The lawyer's fee is a pre-agreed percentage of the total settlement or verdict they obtain for you.
If you do not win your case, you do not owe your lawyer any attorney's fees. This arrangement allows anyone to access quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. It also incentivizes the attorney to fight for the maximum possible compensation for your claim.
The Piri Law Firm is dedicated to supporting individuals after an accident, providing legal advocacy and guidance to secure fair compensation and justice. While handling the legal complexities, we prioritize clients’ recovery and well-being, offering trusted support during challenging times.
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