A slip-and-fall accident can happen to anyone, and it can be even more frustrating when it occurs on vacation. If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a slip-and-fall accident while on vacation, it is vital to understand your legal rights and options.
The fear you might have is that being out of state will impact your ability to recover damages. While it may be more inconvenient, you still have the right to file a lawsuit against property owners for injuries caused by their negligence.
Gather relevant information
The first step in filing a slip-and-fall case is to gather as much information as possible about the incident. This includes taking photos of the scene, obtaining witness statements and getting medical attention for any injuries. It is also important to note the location of the accident, the time it occurred and the conditions that led to the fall.
Ensure the owner has liability
Property owners or operators may have liability for the accident if they were aware of the dangerous condition and failed to take appropriate action to fix it. However, you should note that a property owner may not be liable if the hazardous condition was an act of nature, such as a storm. Also, if you break the law, such as by trespassing, the property owner may not be liable.
Do not delay
It is also important to note that time limits apply to filing a slip-and-fall case. According to the Hawaii State Legislature, victims have two years from when an incident occurred to start a slip-and-fall lawsuit.
Ultimately, taking the necessary steps to protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries is essential. Document the incident, and do not wait too long to file a case.