What Is the Average Texas Slip and Fall Settlement?
Slip and fall accidents can be incredibly distressing experiences for those involved, and the outcome of potential legal cases is often uncertain. If you are considering filing a slip-and-fall lawsuit in Texas, it is important to understand the processes and factors that influence settlement decisions. In this article, we provide an overview of key points related to settling slip and fall cases in the Lone Star State.

The first factor to consider is timing – how long does it typically take for a slip-and-fall case to be settled in Texas? Generally speaking, cases that are likely to settle out of court usually do so within 6 months to 1 year of filing. At this point, courts will need to approve any agreements negotiated by lawyers for each party, so there may be some delays in the process.
It is also helpful to know the average amount awarded in slip and fall settlements in Texas. The amount awarded will vary widely depending on the severity of the injuries sustained, as well as other factors such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. However, based on data from legal settlements last year, the average slip-and-fall settlement in Texas was approximately $31,000.
Out of Court Settlements
When dealing with a slip and fall case, it is important to understand that many cases are resolved outside of the courtroom. This is often more cost-efficient and time-effective for all parties concerned. However, outcomes can vary depending on the facts and circumstances surrounding each unique case. Generally speaking, settlements are commonplace in these types of cases. That said, there may be situations when a fair resolution can’t be negotiated and the matter must go to trial. It is important to discuss your options with your legal representative to determine what is best for you given the particulars of your situation.
Negligence Definition in Texas
Negligence is the most common form of legal action taken in Texas courts, as it best enables an entity to invoke its liability insurance coverage. Negligence is essentially the failure to act as a reasonably prudent person would, or doing that which a reasonable person would not do, under similar circumstances. This concept has been recognized in multiple court cases including 20801, Inc. v. Parker (249 S.W.3d 392, 398 [Tex., 2008]), Thompson v. Gibson (298 S.W.2d 97, 105[Tex., 1957]) and Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word v. Gobert (992 S.W.2d 25, 28 [Tex. App.–Houston 1st Dist., 1997, no pet.]).
In order to establish negligence-based liability, it must be proven that the defendant acted or failed to act in a way that was contrary to what a reasonable, prudent individual would have done given similar circumstances. Texas Pattern Jury Charges PJC 2.1 (2012) defines ‘ordinary care’ as the degree of attention and caution that an objectively reasonable person would demonstrate under identical or analogous conditions.
What Factors Affect the Amount of my Texas slip/Trip and Fall Settlement?
The amount of your slip, trip, and fall settlement in Texas, or any other jurisdiction, can be influenced by several factors. It’s important to note that each case is unique, and the outcome can vary depending on specific circumstances. Here are some of the key factors that can impact the amount of your settlement:
Liability: One of the most critical factors is determining who is liable for the accident. If it can be proven that the property owner or occupier was negligent in maintaining their premises or failed to address a hazardous condition that caused your slip, trip, or fall, it is more likely that you will have a strong case for compensation.
Severity of injuries: The extent and severity of your injuries will significantly impact the potential settlement amount. Serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment, and surgeries, or result in permanent disabilities may lead to higher settlements to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
Medical expenses: The total cost of your medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, therapy, and future medical care, will be a major consideration in determining the settlement amount.
Lost wages: If your slip and fall accident caused you to miss work or resulted in a reduced earning capacity due to injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and future income.
Pain and suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering is subjective and varies depending on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your daily life. This can include physical pain, emotional distress, and the loss of enjoyment of life.
Comparative negligence: Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are found partially at fault for the accident (usually less than 50% at fault), your settlement may be reduced proportionately to your degree of fault.
Insurance coverage: The insurance policies of the liable parties, such as homeowners’ insurance or business liability insurance, will impact the maximum amount available for settlement.
Evidence: The strength of your evidence, including photographs of the accident scene, witness testimonies, and any documentation of your injuries and medical treatments, can significantly influence the outcome of your case.
Legal representation: Having an experienced Texas personal injury attorney who can negotiate on your behalf and build a strong case can make a significant difference in the final settlement amount. They can assess the specific circumstances of your case and help you pursue the maximum compensation.
Jury or judge: If your case goes to trial, the judgment of a jury or judge can have a substantial impact on the final settlement amount.
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Slip And Fall Case In Texas?
When it comes to slip and fall cases in Texas, the amount of time needed to settle a case can vary depending on the circumstances. Generally speaking, if liability is in question or if insurance coverage is an issue, the process could take longer than expected. However, if there is no dispute as to fault or who was responsible for the incident, the settlement timeline may be much shorter. Additionally, when filing a claim, all paperwork must be submitted correctly and timely, otherwise that will further delay the process.
On average, a typical slip and fall claim should be resolved within six months to a year. If a lawsuit must be filed due to an unresolved issue between both parties, the timeline could stretch out to two years or more. During this period, all related evidence including medical documents and witness testimonies must be collected and presented in court. It’s important to note that while this process is ongoing, settlements are often made at any time during the proceedings. A knowledgeable attorney with experience dealing with this type of litigation can provide invaluable guidance in achieving a satisfactory resolution.
FAQs about Texas Slip and Fall Settlement Amounts
What is the average payout for a slip and fall injury in Texas?
The average payout for a slip and fall injury in Texas depends on the specifics of each case. In general, compensation for medical bills lost wages, and pain and suffering can range from thousands of dollars to millions of dollars. Factors such as negligence, duration of the injury, and any pre-existing medical conditions can significantly influence the amount of compensation awarded.
How do you calculate pain and suffering in Texas?
In Texas, pain and suffering is a non-economic damages category that recognizes physical and emotional injuries sustained due to an accident. Pain and suffering is usually calculated by multiplying the injury victim’s economic damages (such as medical bills) by a number between 1.5 and 5, depending on the severity of the injury.
How long after a slip and fall can you sue in Texas?
Under Texas law, personal injury victims have up to two years from the date of their slip and fall accident to file their lawsuit. It is important to note that if the case involves a foreign entity or government agency, you must file your claim within six months of your slip and fall.
How much can you sue for personal injury in Texas?
The amount an individual can sue for personal injury in Texas depends on the specific details and circumstances of each case. Factors such as negligence, duration of the injury, any pre-existing medical conditions, and economic damages will all be taken into consideration when determining the value of a settlement.
How long does an insurance company have to settle a personal injury claim in Texas?
Insurance companies typically have up to one year from the date of the incident to resolve personal injury claims in Texas. If an insurance company fails to respond or deny coverage, the insurance policyholder may have grounds to extend this time frame, depending on the facts of the case
Why are slip and fall cases hard to win?
Slip-and-fall cases can be difficult to win due to the burden of proof that rests on the plaintiff. In order for a plaintiff to receive compensation, they must demonstrate that the property owner was negligent in maintaining their premises. This requires substantial evidence to prove that the environment posed an unreasonable risk to any visitors. Furthermore, if the plaintiff’s behavior can be deemed careless or reckless, it may diminish the validity of their claim.
How much money does Walmart settle for slip-and-fall accidents?
Every slip-and-fall lawsuit is unique, so it is difficult to estimate the potential settlement amount without considering all of the factors involved. That being said, Walmart has been known to settle slip-and-fall claims ranging from a few thousand dollars up to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Pain and suffering damages are non-economic damages incurred by the plaintiff as a result of an injury. They refer to not only physical pain but also emotional distress such as anxiety, fear, depression, humiliation, loss of pleasure in life, etc. In many jurisdictions, these types of damages are calculated based on factors such as the severity of the injury, medical bills, lost wages, the defendant’s degree of negligence, and more.
Average Slip and Fall Settlements in Texas
Slip and fall cases can be complex matters, with a wide range of factors influencing the potential settlement. However, based on some common Texas examples, the amount awarded in such cases can range from $15,000 all the way to $850,000. Every case is unique and the compensation you receive may depend on many factors, such as the seriousness of your injuries, their implications for your daily life, and the degree of negligence exhibited by the property owner. To maximize your chances of receiving an appropriate settlement, it is important to seek assistance from a reliable personal injury attorney.
Genthe Law Firm is a team of experienced attorneys that specialize in Texas slip-and-fall claims. Our tireless representatives serve clients across Dallas, its surrounding suburbs, and all of Texas. With our profound knowledge and understanding of legal procedure, we are well-equipped to provide a full evaluation of your case and offer our support as you navigate the system. If you would like to ensure yourself a successful recovery, do not hesitate to call us today at (214) 957-0898 and let us fight for you!
Page Contents
- What Is the Average Texas Slip and Fall Settlement?
- Out of Court Settlements
- Negligence Definition in Texas
- What Factors Affect the Amount of my Texas slip/Trip and Fall Settlement?
- How Long Does It Take To Settle A Slip And Fall Case In Texas?
- FAQs about Texas Slip and Fall Settlement Amounts
- What is the average payout for a slip and fall injury in Texas?
- How do you calculate pain and suffering in Texas?
- How long after a slip and fall can you sue in Texas?
- How much can you sue for personal injury in Texas?
- How long does an insurance company have to settle a personal injury claim in Texas?
- Why are slip and fall cases hard to win?
- How much money does Walmart settle for slip-and-fall accidents?
- How do you calculate pain and suffering?
- Average Slip and Fall Settlements in Texas