Best Slip And Fall Lawyers in Washington DC

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Washington DC?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Metropolitan Police Department is 311.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Washington DC?

  You may get a copy of police reports for incidents related to your case at the Metropolitan Police Department's Public Documents Section, located in Room 3075 of the Henry J. Daly Building at 300 Indiana Avenue, NW. It is open from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• What is a “notice” in a Washington, D.C., slip-and-fall case?

  Victims of slip-and-fall accidents in Washington, D.C., are burdened with proving “notice” or that the property owner was aware of the defect or dangerous condition and is, therefore, liable for the victim’s injuries. While actual notice is when the property owner absolutely knew or even directly created the danger, constructive notice is when the owner should have known that it was there.

• Are Washington, D.C., property owners liable for slip-and-fall accidents caused by snow or ice?

  Both residential and commercial property owners in Washington, D.C., may be held liable for slip-and-fall accidents on their property that were caused by snow or ice accumulation. This is because they are obliged to clear any accumulated snow or ice on their property within 24 hours of the weather event or else risk fines from the municipality.

• Can Washington, D.C., slip-and-fall victims file a case against the government?

  Those who have suffered slip-and-fall accidents in public spaces in Washington, D.C., may pursue legal action against the government, as it has a duty to use ordinary care in order to keep public streets and sidewalks reasonably safe for pedestrian use. However, there are certain exceptions, such as if hazardous snow and ice conditions have only recently formed, thus the government will not have had enough time to address them.

• How long do Washington, D.C., slip-and-fall victims have to pursue legal action?

  As per D.C. Law Library – § 12–301, victims of slip-and-fall accidents in Washington, D.C., have up to three years to file a claim against the negligent property owner or other party. While this seems like ample time, victims are advised to consult an attorney immediately in anticipation of potential problems involving the investigation and evidence collection.

• What compensation can be recovered in a Washington, D.C., slip-and-fall case?

  In a slip-and-fall case in Washington, D.C., victims may recover economic damages such as the cost of surgeries or overnight hospital stays, rehabilitation expenses, and lost wages from missed time from work. They may also be entitled to non-economic damages, which include pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional distress, disfigurement or scarring, and loss of consortium.