Slip And Fall Injuries: Causes, Risks, And Taking Action

Although you may not think about the possibility of slipping and falling when you are out shopping, doing errands, or visiting a friend, the reality is that these accidents are quite common and can cause various injuries. To avoid ending up in the emergency room due to a slip and fall accident, lawyers Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff & Wolff recommend you become familiar with the most common causes and risks of these types of accidents. You may end up saving your life.

Common Risk Factors of Slip and Falls

Uneven or Slippery Floors

Although property owners should be responsible for keeping their floors even, clean, and free of debris, you may likely encounter a floor that is wet or oily, pavement that is full of cracks, and other dangers that have not been taken care of or not been marked to warn.

Being Distracted

It has become common to observe pedestrians more engaged with their phones than with the road. To avoid a slip and fall, always be aware of your surroundings, note areas of the floor that are uneven or wet, or pay attention to obstacles in your path. You do not want to avoid injuring yourself in a store only to have the court conclude that you were partially or fully at fault for your injuries.

Poor Maintenance

Properties should be maintained to reduce the risk of potential hazards. Loose floorboards or torn carpeting should be replaced, loose handrails in stairwells must be tightened, uneven floors should be clearly marked, and guests or visitors should be informed of any hazards.

Taking Action After a Slip and Fall

If you believe the injuries you sustained in your slip and fall are due to the negligence of a property owner or manager, you may be eligible to file a claim for damages. The first action you should take is to seek medical attention. Follow your doctor’s instructions and do everything they recommend to recover your health. Also, have your doctor clearly state in your medical record the nature of your injuries and their relation to the slip and fall. This documentation may prove to be very useful when you file a personal injury claim.

Once you have seen to your health, your next step should be to reach out to a personal injury attorney to help you with your case. It is important to do this as soon as possible since there is a statute of limitations that limits how much time you have to file a claim. Even though this deadline may be a couple of years away, it may take a long time to gather the necessary evidence to prove negligence.

Your lawyer will evaluate your case and explain what types of damages you may be entitled to receive. Although compensation for medical bills is the most common, you may also be entitled to receive damages to cover your pain and suffering and other intangible losses. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded.