At the Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Houston slip and fall accident lawyers and support staff know that no one expects to be injured while shopping or having lunch with friends in Texas. Unfortunately, dangerous conditions exist nearly everywhere we go, including the grocery store or our favorite restaurants.
The National Floor Safety Institute reported that last year alone, more than one million people across the country sought emergency medical care for slip and fall accidents and injuries.
Our Harris County slip and fall accident attorneys know that most of these incidents and injuries are preventable but require business and property owners to keep their premises safe for employees, customers, and guests.
When property owners fail to provide a safe environment for lawful visitors, they are liable for their negligence, and we can help ensure they are held accountable for our client’s injuries.
Our skilled legal staff offers services in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Mandarin because we believe in inclusion, fairness, and justice. It is only possible to successfully represent the people in our communities when we can successfully represent all people.
Contact us today to learn more about our commitment to pursuing positive outcomes for our Texas clients.
Where Do Most Slip and Fall Accidents Occur in Texas?
When negligence is a factor, slip, and fall accidents can happen anywhere.
Common locations where negligence is pervasive and leads to slip and fall accidents on both public and private property may include shopping malls, restaurants, grocery stores, retail outlets, hotels and resorts, or while visiting a friend.
Some of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents in Texas often include:
Cluttered Floors and Walkways
Loose Floor Mats
Falls From Heights
Exposed, Loose, or Unfastened Cables
Broken Stairs, Elevators, or Escalators
Spilled Liquids or Food
Freshly Waxed or Mopped Surfaces
Uneven Sidewalks
Missing or Damaged Hand Railings
Inadequate Lighting
Business and property owners have a duty to provide a safe space for visitors to enjoy, and when they delay necessary maintenance, fail to clean up spills, or fail to post warnings regarding the dangers, people are going to get hurt.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a slip and fall accident in Texas, contact our skilled premises liability attorneys in Houston for a free consultation today. We can help you pursue the liable party — or combination of parties — for your complete injury needs.
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, Our Houston Personal Injury Attorney Also Focuses on the Following Practice Areas:
What are the Most Common Injuries Associated with Slip and Fall Accidents in Texas?
Slips and falls often cause significant injuries because of the surprising nature of the accident. Most people are not actively looking for hazards in public places, and certainly believe if there are such circumstances, there should also be a warning.
Because negligence is difficult to foresee, approximately five percent of slip and fall accidents involve broken bones. In 20-30% of cases, slip and fall accidents lead to severe injuries.
Common injuries associated with slip and fall accidents in Texas include:
Joint Dislocations
Bone Fractures
Spinal Cord Injuries
Sprained and Strained Muscles
Neck Injuries
Soft Tissue Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Other Head Injuries
Paralysis
Since 2003, we have dedicated our practice to producing real results for real people whose lives have been impacted by negligence, including those who are hurt in slip-and-fall accidents throughout Texas.
If you or a loved one was injured in a slip and fall accident caused by a business or property owner’s negligence, contact our skilled personal injury lawyers in Houston today to discuss your financial recovery needs during a free consultation.
Why Slip and Fall Accidents Remain a Serious Safety Issue in Texas
Slip and fall accidents are among the most common causes of injury across the United States, and Texas is no exception. According to national injury data, millions of people require medical treatment for fall-related injuries each year. While many incidents occur in private homes, a significant number take place in commercial properties where owners and operators are responsible for maintaining safe conditions.
Houston’s size and commercial activity increase the likelihood of these incidents. The city contains thousands of retail stores, restaurants, office buildings, and entertainment venues that see heavy foot traffic daily. When hazards develop in these environments and property owners fail to address them promptly, visitors can suffer serious injuries.
Slip-and-fall accidents frequently occur when routine maintenance, inspections, or safety procedures are neglected. Even hazards that appear minor can cause significant injuries when people lose their footing unexpectedly.
Retail Stores and Shopping Centers Present Frequent Slip Hazards
Large retail environments are among the most common locations for slip-and-fall accidents. Grocery stores, big-box retailers, shopping malls, and warehouse stores all rely on employees to monitor walkways and address hazards quickly.
These environments often involve constantly changing conditions. Spills, dropped items, or cleaning activities can create dangerous surfaces that require immediate attention.
Common retail slip hazards may include:
Liquid spills in grocery store aisles.
Recently mopped floors without warning signs.
Merchandise or boxes blocking walkways.
Loose floor mats near store entrances.
Damaged or uneven flooring in high-traffic areas.
Because many Houston retail centers operate for extended hours and receive large numbers of customers each day, maintaining safe walking conditions requires constant monitoring.
Apartment Complexes and Rental Properties
Slip-and-fall accidents also frequently occur in residential rental properties, such as apartment complexes, condominiums, and townhome communities. Property owners and management companies are responsible for maintaining common areas used by residents and visitors.
When these areas are poorly maintained, dangerous conditions can develop.
Hazards commonly found in apartment complexes may include:
Broken or uneven stairways.
Loose or missing handrails.
Poor lighting in hallways or parking areas.
Water accumulation near building entrances.
Cracked sidewalks or deteriorated walkways.
In large apartment communities across Houston, maintenance delays or inadequate inspections can allow these hazards to remain for extended periods.
Parking Lots and Sidewalks Are Frequent Locations for Falls
Many slip-and-fall injuries occur outdoors rather than inside buildings. Parking lots, sidewalks, and pedestrian walkways are areas where people often encounter unexpected hazards.
Outdoor walking surfaces may deteriorate over time due to exposure to weather, heavy traffic, and normal wear. Property owners are responsible for inspecting these areas and repairing conditions that create unreasonable risks.
Outdoor hazards that commonly lead to falls include:
Potholes or broken pavement.
Uneven sidewalks or raised concrete slabs.
Poor drainage that allows water to accumulate.
Loose gravel or debris on walking surfaces.
Insufficient lighting in parking areas.
When these conditions are left unaddressed, visitors may not recognize the danger until it is too late to avoid injury.
Weather Conditions Can Increase Slip Risks in Houston
Houston’s climate can also contribute to slip hazards. Sudden rainstorms, high humidity, and wet conditions can create slippery surfaces both inside and outside commercial properties.
Rainwater tracked into buildings often collects near entrances, where tile or polished floors become extremely slick. Businesses are expected to take reasonable steps to reduce these risks by placing warning signs, floor mats, or additional cleaning measures during periods of wet weather.
Weather-related hazards may involve:
Water accumulation near doorways.
Wet floors inside retail entrances.
Slippery outdoor walkways after rainfall.
Poor drainage that leaves standing water.
When businesses fail to address these conditions, the risk of injury increases significantly.
Surveillance Video and Evidence in Slip and Fall Cases
Modern commercial properties often rely on security camera systems to monitor activity throughout the building. These cameras can provide valuable evidence in slip-and-fall accidents.
Surveillance footage may help determine:
How long has the hazardous condition existed?
Whether employees were aware of the hazard.
Whether warning signs were present.
The circumstances surrounding the fall.
Video evidence can be particularly important in cases where property owners dispute the circumstances of the accident. Because many systems automatically overwrite recordings after a short period, obtaining footage quickly can be critical.
Proving Negligence in a Texas Slip and Fall Case
Slip-and-fall claims typically involve premises liability law. To pursue compensation successfully, an injured person must demonstrate that a property owner failed to take reasonable steps to maintain safe conditions.
This often requires showing that:
A dangerous condition existed on the property.
The property owner knew or should have known about the hazard.
The hazard was not repaired or properly addressed.
The unsafe condition caused the injury.
Evidence such as maintenance records, incident reports, witness statements, and photographs may all play an important role in establishing liability.
Comparative Responsibility Under Texas Law
Texas follows a modified comparative responsibility system when evaluating personal injury claims. This means fault can be divided among multiple parties based on their role in the incident.
Property owners sometimes argue that the injured individual contributed to the accident by failing to notice the hazard or by ignoring warning signs. Under Texas law, an injured person may still recover compensation if they are less than fifty percent responsible for the incident.
Determining how responsibility should be divided often requires a careful review of the facts surrounding the accident.
The Long-Term Impact of Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip-and-fall accidents can result in injuries that require extensive medical care and recovery time. Even injuries that initially appear minor may develop into more serious conditions over time.
Medical and financial consequences may include:
Emergency medical treatment.
Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or MRIs.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Time away from work during recovery.
Ongoing care for chronic pain or mobility issues.
For individuals who suffer serious injuries, these financial burdens can quickly become overwhelming.
How Hollingsworth Law Firm Evaluates Slip and Fall Claims
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we understand that slip-and-fall accidents often occur because property owners fail to address hazards that could have been prevented. Our attorneys carefully evaluate how the dangerous condition developed and whether the responsible party took reasonable steps to maintain the premises in a safe condition.
This process may involve reviewing maintenance practices, examining available evidence, and identifying the circumstances that contributed to the accident.
Slip-and-fall cases frequently require a detailed investigation to determine how negligence contributed to the incident. Our legal team works to uncover the facts surrounding the fall so injured individuals can pursue compensation under Texas law.
What Type of Financial Recovery Can I Pursue During a Texas Slip and Fall Accident Claim?
At the Hollingsworth Law Firm, our slip-and-fall accident lawyers in Houston provide customized legal strategies that allow our clients to pursue the best financial outcome for their unique cases.
That may include:
Past and future medical expenses
Loss of past and future wages
Loss of wage-earning capacity
Reduced future earning capacity
Past and future pain and suffering
Past and future mental anguish
Physical impairment or disfigurement
At the Hollingsworth Law Firm, we are dedicated to pursuing actual results for our clients.
That means everyone who calls our offices for help will speak directly with a slip and fall accident attorney, so they understand their legal rights and options right away.
We will fight for each form of financial recovery you deserve through negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company or prepare your case with precision for trial. When you are ready to contact an accomplished slip-and-fall accident law firm in Houston, we are ready to hear your story.
Tell us how we can help you pursue the best outcome for your Texas slip and fall accident claim.
Contact Our Skilled Slip and Fall Accident Attorneys in Houston, Texas, Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a slip and fall accident in Texas, contact our dedicated Houston premises liability lawyers at the Hollingsworth Law Firm today by calling 713-637-4560 or contacting us online for a free case evaluation.
Our skilled bilingual slip-and-fall accident lawyers and support staff represent clients throughout the state of Texas on a contingency basis, so you never pay any legal fees unless we win your case.
If you are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve, so are we. Let us take the lead.
Frequently Asked Questions for Our Slip and Fall Accident Attorneys in Houston, Texas
What Should I Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in Texas?
If you are injured in a slip and fall accident in Texas, remain where you are, and ask to report the accident to a supervisor or property owner right away. Many injury victims make the mistake of jumping up quickly to avoid embarrassment, but that can lead to additional injuries. Stay in place, and alert someone to your accident and the harm it has caused. If you are physically able, take pictures of the accident scene, so they can be used as evidence later. If you can leave on your own, seek emergency medical care immediately. This will allow you to identify each injury, begin a treatment plan, and begin a timeline of your personal injury events to share with our Houston slip and fall accident attorneys.
Can I Pursue a Texas Homeowner for a Slip and Fall Accident that Occurs on Their Private Property?
Slip and fall accidents and injuries can occur anywhere negligence is a factor, including someone’s home. If you have been injured on private property, you may be eligible to pursue the property owner’s homeowner’s insurance coverage for your full financial recovery. If the property owner is a family member or friend, having a skilled personal injury attorney by your side can help remove you – and them – from the negotiations. We will deal directly with the insurance company, so your personal relationship is not jeopardized by asking for them to pay for your expenses out of pocket.
Can I Sue My Landlord for a Slip and Fall Accident in Texas?
Tenants can be injured in apartment and condo buildings across Texas. To establish a personal injury claim for negligence on the part of a landlord, management company, or property owner, we must show that the duty of reasonable care was breached. The property owner must have known — or should have known — of the presence of the hazardous condition to be held liable.
What is a slip and fall accident?
A slip and fall accident refers to a situation where a person slips, trips, or falls on someone else’s property due to hazardous conditions, such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, or debris. These accidents often lead to injuries, and in some cases, legal claims can be pursued against property owners.
When should I consider hiring a slip and fall accident attorney in Houston?
You should consider hiring an attorney if you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident that occurred due to the negligence of a property owner or manager. An attorney can help you determine whether you have a valid claim and guide you through the legal process.
How can an attorney help me with my slip and fall case?
An experienced slip and fall accident attorney can gather evidence, interview witnesses, assess the liability of the property owner, calculate damages (medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering), negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached.
How do I prove negligence in a slip and fall case?
To establish negligence, you generally need to prove that the property owner had a duty of care, breached that duty by allowing hazardous conditions, the hazardous conditions caused your accident, and you suffered damages as a result. An attorney can help gather evidence to support these elements.
What if I partially contributed to the slip and fall accident?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are found to be partially responsible for the accident, your compensation could be reduced. If your percentage of fault exceeds 50%, you might not be eligible for compensation. An attorney can help navigate this complex legal aspect.
How long do I have to file a slip and fall lawsuit in Texas?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including slip and fall accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to consult an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet the deadlines.
What costs are involved in hiring a slip and fall attorney?
Many slip and fall accident attorneys in Houston work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if you win the case or reach a settlement. Their fee is typically a percentage of the compensation you receive.
Can I handle a slip and fall claim without an attorney?
While you can attempt to handle a claim on your own, it’s advisable to consult with an attorney, especially if your injuries are serious or liability is disputed. An attorney can provide legal expertise, negotiate effectively, and protect your rights.
How do I choose the right slip and fall attorney in Houston?
When selecting an attorney, look for experience in handling slip and fall cases, a track record of successful outcomes, clear communication, and a commitment to your best interests. Consultations are often free, so you can discuss your case before making a decision.
Steve Hollingsworth is a skilled trial attorney with over 50 cases tried across Texas. With experience as a felony prosecutor and representing major insurers, he now focuses on helping injured Texans in areas like car, motorcycle, trucking accidents, and premises liability. Steve founded his own firm to provide dedicated, client-focused legal representation.
Awesome Attorney
I was a client of Steve Hollingsworth. I was totally satisfied with his representation of me. He was very helpful in answering all my questions and always kept me updated on the status of my case. I am very happy with the settlement of the case and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for legal advice.
RossanaFormer Client
Houston’s Best Consultation!
Steve was just great! Very easy to work with, communicates really well and most importantly sets realistic expectations. He is very straightforward and promptly responds to all your questions. I would definitely recommend Steve and would not hesitate to hire him in the future.
AnonymousFormer Client
Very Accommodating and Caring
Steve and his assistant Kristina takes care of all my requests right away. Steve personally calls on issues and keeps me updated on the developments of the case. Got me a great settlement! Would highly recommend!
Mila G.Former Client
Rear End Case
Mr. Hollingsworth was an excellent lawyer in my case. He kept me up to date and informed through the whole process. He was always honest and fought hard in my case. He comes highly recommend.
Anonymous Former Client
Awesome!!!!!
I have no complaints; Steve did a very good job on explaining the details on everything that I was going through with my case. Steve got my case settled in no time, I will sure spread the word about Steve he is a very great lawyer.
SaraFormer Client
Review
I liked how Steve explained everything, so I knew what I was getting in to. Steve got me what I deserved in no time. I would recommend him to anyone.
AndrewFormer Client
Steven and I attended law school together and I have known him since 2000. He was stellar in representing a close friend with a personal injury matter. I have been very impressed with his communication, dedication and thoroughness in representation.
Pamela V.Attorney from Cypress, TX
Steve is the real deal! He is an extremely invaluable resource on all things Litigation for me as a younger attorney. He is not only great a securing the bigger verdicts, but actually cares about the clients and still sticks by his tried and true method of meeting, in person, with his clients to go over facts .
overall, a solid attorney, with a wealth of knowledge!
Crystal H.Attorney from Houston, TX
Steve and I were colleagues, where we worked on complex personal injury and wrongful death cases. What I observed in the years we worked together is that Steve is not only extremely skillful in his profession, but he is a tireless student of the law, constantly working to perfect the art of practicing law.
He genuinely cares about his clients and their cases and it shows. He has excellent work ethic. He is not only a terrific lawyer but also a great person. As a fellow member of the State Bar of Texas, I would recommend Steve to anyone needing a zealous advocate in a personal injury case.
Vivian E.Attorney from San Antonio, TX
After working with Steve for a couple of years, I found Steve to be an outstanding, aggressive and highly skilled lawyer in the courtroom. His confidence and knowledge of the courtroom and what it takes to succeed there, I believe will ensure his long term prosperity.
Robin T.Attorney from College Station, TX
I had the pleasure of working on a trial with Steven last August. His background as an ADA is clearly evident in the courtroom. Steven’s presentation of the evidence throughout trial is that of a seasoned attorney who has spent many hours in front of a jury.
His opening/closings were excellent, as well as his strategic litigating throughout the trial. Steven is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with, and watch in the courtroom.
James H.From Miami, FL
When I met Steve, I was a legal assistant at a Plaintiff’s firm and he was working as an attorney for AIG. We connected there and then. Steve is a likable guy and an outstanding trial lawyer. He is charismatic and jurors like him.
He is a Plaintiff’s lawyer now and he has the right skill set to represent injured individuals: he is compassionate, honest, and sincere and will go the extra mile for his clients. I’ve known Steve for almost 8 years now and I’m excited to see his career evolve.
Alice L. Attorney in Houston, TX
Professional and Thorough
I used Steve Hollingsworth for a personal injury case following a car accident. He was very easy to work with and managed my expectations regarding costs, time commitment/duration, filing suit etc. Steve kept me informed during the process and always made sure I understand what everything meant.
My case took about 18 months to resolve, ending in mediation after filing suit and he pushed hard to make sure my best interest was represented and to ensure that I had the best possible (and fair) outcome.
I hope I never have a personal injury claim again but if I do, I would absolutely consult with Steve. He exceeded my expectations and made the process as painless as possible. I would high recommend him.
JessieFormer Client
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