Slip and fall accidents happen across Minnetonka every day. Whether someone slips on an icy sidewalk at Ridgedale Center, trips on loose flooring in a Lake Street business, or falls on poorly lit stairs in an apartment complex near Minnetonka Boulevard, these incidents often lead to serious injuries and high medical bills.
When property owners fail to keep their spaces reasonably safe, Minnesota law allows injured people to seek financial recovery. A Minnetonka slip and fall accident lawyer from Fields Injury Law can help hold property owners and insurance companies accountable.
We’ve handled many slip and fall claims throughout the state and understand how to build strong cases. If you or a loved one suffered harm due to a property owner’s negligence, contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help.
What Constitutes a Slip and Fall Accident in Minnesota?
A slip and fall accident usually happens when someone loses their footing due to a hazard on someone else's property. These accidents often occur in stores, restaurants, apartment buildings, sidewalks, or public areas.
Common Types of Slip and Fall Incidents
People can fall for many reasons. Some common situations include:
- Slipping on wet floors in grocery stores
- Tripping on cracked or raised sidewalks
- Falling down icy stairs outside office buildings
- Slipping on unmarked spills in restaurants
- Falling in parking lots due to potholes or uneven pavement
These incidents are preventable when property owners take care of their buildings and grounds.
Legal Definition Under Minnesota Law
Minnesota law defines slip and fall claims as part of "premises liability." This means the person or company that owns or controls the property must take reasonable steps to keep it safe for visitors. If someone gets hurt because the property wasn’t kept safe, the owner can be held responsible.
Difference Between Slip and Fall vs. Trip and Fall Cases
Slip and fall accidents usually happen when a surface is slick, like from water, ice, or oil. Trip and fall cases happen when something blocks a person’s foot or path, like a raised carpet edge, broken tile, or cluttered walkway. Both types can cause injuries and fall under the same legal rules.
Why Do Slip and Fall Accidents Happen in Minnetonka?
Minnetonka has plenty of spots where slips, trips, and falls occur, from shopping areas like Westwind Plaza to residential complexes near Crane Lake. Poor property conditions are often to blame.
Weather-Related Hazards (Ice, Snow, Rain)
Minnesota winters bring snow, sleet, and ice, which create slick walkways. Property owners must clear sidewalks, entryways, and parking lots within a reasonable time. Rain also makes floors slippery if water gets tracked indoors. Businesses should place rugs and warning signs near entrances when it’s wet outside.
Property Maintenance Issues
Cracked pavement, broken steps, and loose handrails all increase the chance of falling. At apartment buildings near Shady Oak Road or retail stores along Highway 7, poor upkeep often plays a role in accidents.
Inadequate Lighting and Signage
Stairwells, hallways, and parking areas need good lighting. Without it, people can’t see hazards in their path. Property owners should also post clear signs warning about wet floors or construction zones. Failing to do so can lead to injuries.
Defective Flooring and Walking Surfaces
Torn carpets, missing tiles, and warped flooring are common problems in both homes and businesses. These defects often cause people to trip. At shopping centers or apartment lobbies, poor flooring increases the risk of serious injuries.
Minnesota Premises Liability Laws
When someone falls and gets hurt on another person’s property, the law allows them to take legal action. Minnesota has clear rules about who is responsible and how claims work.
Property Owner Duties and Responsibilities
Property owners must fix known hazards, inspect regularly, and warn visitors about dangers. For example, a store should clean up spills quickly and a landlord must repair broken stairs. Failing to do these things can result in a valid injury claim.
Visitor Classifications (Invitee, Licensee, Trespasser)
Minnesota law treats visitors differently depending on why they’re on the property.
- Invitees: People like customers or tenants who are there with permission and for the owner’s benefit. Owners owe them the highest duty of care.
- Licensees: Social guests or people stopping by for non-business reasons. Owners must warn them about known dangers.
- Trespassers: People who enter without permission. Owners have limited duties, but can’t set traps or act recklessly.
Comparative Negligence in Minnesota
Sometimes both the injured person and the property owner share some responsibility. Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault rule. If the injured person is less than 51% at fault, they can still recover money, but their compensation gets reduced by their percentage of fault.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Your Slip and Fall Injury?
More than one party may be legally responsible for a fall injury, depending on where it happened.
Commercial Property Owners and Businesses
Stores, restaurants, malls, and office buildings must keep walkways safe for customers. If someone falls inside a store like Target or outside a shop at Minnetonka Crossing, the business owner or tenant may be liable.
Residential Property Owners and Landlords
Landlords and homeowners must maintain safe conditions for guests and tenants. If a tenant falls on icy steps or broken flooring in an apartment near Hopkins Crossroad, the landlord may be responsible.
Government Entities and Public Properties
City-owned sidewalks, parks, or buildings also fall under premises liability laws. However, suing a government entity has special rules, including shorter deadlines and notice requirements.
Property Management Companies
If a management company is hired to maintain the property, they may also be held responsible for unsafe conditions, especially when they fail to inspect or repair known hazards.
Common Injuries from Slip and Fall Accidents
Falls often cause serious injuries that need weeks or months of treatment. Some people never fully recover.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Broken wrists, hips, and ankles are common. Older adults are especially at risk for hip fractures, which can lead to long hospital stays and mobility issues.
Head and Brain Injuries
Hitting your head in a fall may cause a concussion or traumatic brain injury. Symptoms include headaches, memory loss, confusion, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
Falling down stairs or landing on a hard surface may injure the back or spinal cord. These injuries can limit movement and cause long-term pain.
Soft Tissue Injuries and Sprains
Strains, sprains, and torn ligaments often happen when someone tries to catch themselves during a fall. These injuries may not show up on X-rays but can still cause lasting problems.
What Evidence Do You Need to Prove Your Slip and Fall Case?
Slip and fall cases rely on strong evidence. Without it, insurance companies often deny or reduce payments.
Photographic Documentation
Photos of the scene, the hazard that caused the fall, and your injuries help show what happened. Take pictures as soon as possible before conditions change.
Witness Statements and Contact Information
If anyone saw the fall, get their names and contact info. Witnesses can support your version of events and confirm that the property was unsafe.
Medical Records and Treatment Documentation
Medical records show the type and extent of your injuries. Bills and treatment notes also support your financial recovery claim.
Incident Reports and Property Maintenance Records
Many businesses create reports when someone falls. These reports and maintenance logs may show the owner knew about the danger or didn’t take action to fix it.
How Much Compensation Can You Receive?
Every case is different, but injured people often qualify for financial recovery to help them move forward.
Medical Expenses and Future Treatment Costs
You can seek payment for doctor visits, surgeries, hospital stays, therapy, medications, and future care if your injury requires ongoing treatment.
Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity
If your injury keeps you from working, you may be entitled to money for lost wages. If your ability to work long-term is affected, you can also recover for reduced earning potential.
Pain and Suffering Damages
Slip and fall accidents often cause more than just bills. You may receive money for physical pain, sleep problems, and changes in your day-to-day life.
Factors That Affect Settlement Amounts
The strength of your evidence, the seriousness of your injuries, and the conduct of the property owner all affect how much money you might receive. When property owners or insurers act irresponsibly, that can increase your compensation.
How a Minnetonka Slip and Fall Lawyer Can Help Your Case
Having a lawyer from Fields Injury Law means someone is looking out for your best interests every step of the way.
Thorough Investigation and Evidence Gathering
The firm collects evidence quickly, interviews witnesses, and reviews property records to build a strong case for you.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible. A lawyer from Fields Injury Law knows how to hold them accountable and demand fair compensation.
Calculating Fair Compensation Value
Many people don’t realize how much their case is worth. Your lawyer reviews your injuries, lost work, and other effects to come up with a realistic number.
Representing You in Court if Necessary
When insurers or property owners won’t take responsibility, Fields Injury Law is prepared to take the case to trial and present it to a jury.
Handling All Legal Paperwork and Deadlines
Missing deadlines or filling out paperwork incorrectly can hurt your case. Your lawyer manages the legal process so you can focus on healing.
Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident
What you do after a fall can affect your ability to receive compensation.
Immediate Actions at the Scene
If you’re able, look around and see what caused your fall. Take photos and write down the exact location and time.
Seeking Medical Attention
Go to a doctor or urgent care as soon as possible. Even if you feel fine, injuries may show up later.
Documenting the Incident
Write down everything you remember. Keep copies of your medical bills, doctor notes, and any emails or texts about the incident.
Reporting to Property Owners or Managers
Tell the store manager, landlord, or property owner about the fall. Ask for a written incident report.
Contacting a Personal Injury Attorney
Call Fields Injury Law for a free consultation. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the sooner they can start protecting your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slip and Fall Accidents in Minnetonka
How long do I have to file a slip and fall lawsuit in Minnesota?
In many cases, you have six years from the date of the fall to file a lawsuit. This timeframe can be shortened significantly due to various factors, so it is important to hire legal representation quickly.
What if I was partially at fault for my slip and fall accident?
You can still recover money if you were less than 51% at fault, but your payment may be reduced.
Do I need to pay attorney fees upfront?
No. Fields Injury Law works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they recover compensation for you.
What if the property owner claims they weren't aware of the hazard?
Property owners can still be responsible if they should have known about the danger through regular inspections.
Can I still file a claim if there were no witnesses?
Yes. Other evidence like photos, medical records, and maintenance logs can support your case.
Our Slip and Fall Lawyers in Minnetonka Can Help
Time matters after a slip and fall. Waiting too long can cause evidence to disappear and deadlines to pass. Minnetonka personal injury lawyers at Fields Injury Law offer a free consultation to help you understand your rights. You won’t pay anything unless we recover compensation for you. Acting quickly gives your lawyer more time to build a strong case, contact witnesses, and request records. Call 612-206-3495 today to get started on the path toward recovery.
