When you go into your local gym for a workout, you may expect to come out tired or at least a bit strained after your routine. What you do not expect is to become seriously injured, but people do get injured at gyms and fitness facilities all the time. If you get hurt, can you sue the gym itself? A New Jersey slip & fall lawyer can help you figure out if you have a case.
What Kind of Injuries Can You Sue a Gym For?
Getting hurt because you tried to lift too much weight or because you performed an exercise incorrectly are not good reasons to sue a gym. There are some situations in which an establishment needs to be held liable if it is not making the premises safe for everyone though. You may be able to sue if:
- The gym is not fixing or removing broken equipment
- The floor is damaged, creating a tripping hazard
- Lighting is poor, increasing the risk of slip and falls
- Trainers are using unsafe techniques or teaching methods
- Leaks, spills, or other hazards are not addressed by employees
In cases like these, there can be a clear line drawn between the establishment’s negligence and your injuries. That can make it much easier to sue for damages.
Can I Sue a Gym If I Signed a Waiver?
Most of the time, those waivers you sign when you join a gym are more of a formality. Many would not stand up in court or prevent you from suing for damages if you were hurt at the establishment. This is especially true if you were harmed in something like a slip and fall accident or any other dangers a reasonable person would not expect when entering a gym.
How Long After My Injury Do I Have to Sue a Gym?
You have two years to sue after getting injured in a gym. Pass that deadline, known as the statute of limitations, and it is likely that your case will be thrown out of court no matter how much evidence you have.
What Can Compensation in an Injury Case Help With?
Your settlement from this case should compensate you for all of the costs associated with your accident and help make up for any psychological trauma you have experienced. A compensation offer is not serious unless it helps with:
- Lost wages
- Medical bills
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment
- Loss of earning potential
- Pain and suffering
When Should I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
An attorney can help you with a personal injury case like this one in many ways. They can answer any questions that you have, keep track of important dates for you, and handle all communications on your behalf, all while gathering critical evidence that can help you make your case.
Reach Out to Our Law Firm
If you think that you have a case, contact the Law Office of Craig M. Rothenberg. We can schedule a consultation and tell you more about your legal options and what an experienced attorney can do to assist you.
