Getting hurt on someone else’s property can leave you confused, frustrated, and in pain. Whether you slipped on a wet floor at a store or tripped over broken steps at someone’s house, the steps you take next matter, not just for your health, but for your right to be compensated.

Here’s what Charleston residents need to know if they’re ever in this situation.

Common Causes of Injuries on Someone Else’s Property

Accidents can happen just about anywhere. But some hazards pop up over and over again in property injury cases. Here are a few:

• Wet floors with no warning sign
• Loose railings or broken stairs
• Poor lighting in stairwells or parking lots
• Cracked or uneven sidewalks
• Cluttered walkways in stores or offices
• Dogs that bite or knock people over
• Falling shelves or merchandise

The common thread? These are things the property owner should’ve fixed or warned you about.

What to Do Right After You’re Hurt

The first few minutes and hours after an injury are important. Here’s what to do:

1. Get medical care. Even if it doesn’t seem serious at first, let a doctor check you out. Some injuries get worse later.
2. Report it. Tell the property owner or manager what happened. If it’s a store or business, ask for a copy of the incident report.
3. Take photos. Get pictures of the scene, what caused the injury, and your injuries if possible.
4. Get names and contact info. If anyone saw what happened, their statements might help your case later
5. Keep quiet. Don’t blame yourself or argue about who was at fault. Just stick to the facts.
6. Save everything. Keep medical records, receipts, and even the clothes you were wearing. They could all be important.

How Premises Liability Works in South Carolina

In South Carolina, property owners have a legal duty to keep their places safe. This is called premises liability. But the level of care they owe you depends on why you were there.

There are three main types of visitors:

• Invitees – like customers at a store. Owners must inspect and fix hazards regularly.
• Licensees – like social guests. Owners must warn them of known dangers.
• Trespassers – people who aren’t supposed to be there. Owners don’t owe them much, unless it’s a child or they acted recklessly.

To win a case, you usually have to prove:

• There was a dangerous condition
• The owner knew or should’ve known about it
• They didn’t fix it or warn you
• That’s what caused your injury

When to Call a Charleston Personal Injury Lawyer

Sometimes injuries are minor and heal quickly. But if you’re dealing with doctor bills, time off work, or long-term pain, talk to a lawyer.

A local personal injury lawyer can:

• Investigate the accident
• Gather evidence
• Deal with the insurance company
• Push for a fair settlement

In South Carolina, you have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit, but don’t wait. The sooner a lawyer gets involved, the stronger your case might be.

What Kind of Compensation You Might Get

If the property owner was at fault, you might be able to recover money for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term care or rehab
• Mental distress
• Permanent injuries or scarring

Every case is different. A lawyer can help figure out what your claim might be worth.

Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Case

These are some of the most common things people do that can weaken a case:

• Not seeing a doctor soon enough
• Skipping follow-up care
• Giving a recorded statement to the insurance company
• Posting about the accident on social media
• Throwing out shoes or clothes from the day of the injury
• Waiting too long to talk to a lawyer

It’s easy to make a small mistake that turns into a big problem. If you’re unsure about anything, it’s better to ask a lawyer before making a move.

Final Thoughts

Getting hurt on someone else’s property is stressful, especially when medical bills and time off work start to pile up. But you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

Take care of your health first. Then take steps to protect your legal rights. A good Charleston personal injury lawyer can help you make sense of what happened, gather what you need, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

If you’re dealing with an injury like this, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the better your chances.

Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws can vary by state and specific circumstances. For advice on your particular situation, consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina.