Wet leaves can accumulate on walkways during the autumn months, turning even the most well-maintained paths into hazards.
Slip and fall accidents are unfortunately common under these conditions. In Manchester, NH, many people unknowingly slip on wet leaves outside stores or in parking lots. These accidents can range from minor scrapes and bruises to more serious injuries such as broken bones or head trauma. If you’ve recently been injured in such an accident, you might be wondering whether you have a legal claim.
When Does a Slip and Fall Accident Lead to a Legal Case? 
To pursue compensation for a slip and fall injury in New Hampshire, certain conditions need to be met. While every case is unique, there are common factors that help determine whether you have a valid slip and fall claim. First and foremost, you must prove that the property owner or occupier was negligent in maintaining the area where you fell. Property owners in New Hampshire have a responsibility to ensure that their premises are safe for customers, visitors, and the general public. This includes cleaning up hazards like wet leaves, which are common in the fall.
What Is the Property Owner’s Duty of Care?
Under New Hampshire law, property owners have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors. This includes removing or addressing known hazards that could cause harm. Wet leaves on walkways, parking lots, or other public areas can pose a risk to individuals walking on the property. The property owner is expected to either remove these leaves or take reasonable steps to ensure that people do not slip and fall due to these conditions. However, this duty of care is not limitless. If the leaves were only recently fallen, the property owner may argue that they did not have sufficient time to clear the walkway. On the other hand, if the leaves were wet for a long period or if they were a consistent issue, the property owner may be held accountable for not addressing the problem sooner.
What Are the Key Factors in a Slip and Fall Case?
If you’re wondering whether your slip and fall accident qualifies for compensation, it’s important to understand the key factors that are considered in a legal case. In general, you must prove that the property owner was aware of the hazardous condition or should have been aware of it and that they failed to take appropriate action. The first question to ask is whether the property owner was aware of the wet leaves or other hazards on the walkway. If the leaves had been there for days or even weeks, it’s likely that the property owner or their employees should have noticed the danger. Evidence such as witness statements or surveillance footage may support this claim. Another key factor is whether the property owner had a reasonable amount of time to fix the hazard. If wet leaves were present for an extended period, the owner might be found negligent for not cleaning them up sooner. On the other hand, if the wet leaves appeared shortly before your fall, the owner may argue that they didn’t have sufficient time to address the situation.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall Injury
After any accident, your health and safety should be the top priority. If you’ve been injured after slipping on wet leaves outside a store or business in Manchester, here’s what you should do to protect yourself and your potential legal case.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you don’t think your injuries are serious, it’s crucial to seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, like concussions or fractures, may not be immediately apparent. Getting checked by a healthcare professional can help ensure that you receive proper treatment and also provide documentation of your injuries. In case you need to pursue a legal claim later on, having a medical record of your injuries can strengthen your case.
Report the Incident to the Store or Property Owner
Once you’ve addressed your immediate health concerns, it’s important to report the incident to the property owner or store management. Most stores will have an incident report that can be filled out, and it’s crucial to document the details of your fall. You should also make sure to get a copy of the incident report for your records. This serves as proof that the store was made aware of the slip and fall hazard. If the property owner is unwilling to take responsibility or does not report the incident properly, it may work against them in a court case.
Document the Hazard and Your Injuries
It’s essential to gather evidence to support your claim. Take pictures of the area where you fell, particularly if the wet leaves are still present. Photographs or video evidence can show the hazardous conditions at the time of your accident. Also, document any visible injuries you sustained, including bruises, cuts, or swelling. If possible, gather witness statements from anyone who saw the accident take place.
Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
One of the most important steps to take after a slip and fall accident is to consult with a personal injury lawyer. An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal options and advise you on whether your case has merit. At Tenn and Tenn, PA, our team specializes in personal injury cases, including slip and fall accidents. We offer free consultations, and we’ll work with you to assess your situation and determine the best way to proceed. If we determine that your case has merit, we will help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
How Tenn and Tenn, PA Can Help You with Your Slip and Fall Case
At Tenn and Tenn, PA, we understand the challenges that come with dealing with a slip and fall injury. We know how overwhelming it can be to navigate the legal process while you’re trying to recover from your injuries. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our attorneys have years of experience handling slip and fall cases in Manchester, NH, and we are committed to getting you the compensation you deserve. We can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court. We understand how important it is to hold negligent property owners accountable, especially when their failure to maintain safe premises results in injury. If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident involving wet leaves or other hazards, don’t wait to reach out to us. Slipping on wet leaves outside a store can lead to serious injuries, but you may have a valid legal claim if the property owner was negligent in maintaining the premises. If you’ve been injured in such an accident, it’s essential to take immediate action. Seek medical treatment, report the incident, gather evidence, and consult a personal injury attorney to protect your rights. At Tenn and Tenn, PA, we’re here to help victims of slip and fall accidents in New Hampshire. Contact us today to discuss your case and find out how we can help you get the compensation you deserve. 
