Slip and fall accidents are common in all kinds of places, from supermarkets and workplaces to sidewalks or private property. Although these incidents seem insignificant, they can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, spinal damage, and head trauma. It is important to understand the causes of slip-and-fall accidents, both for prevention and when you might have a case. A personal injury lawyer can help you get compensation if you are injured because of someone else’s negligence. What you should know
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can be caused by a number of factors, including hazardous conditions which could have been avoided.
Here are some of most common causes:
- Wet or Slippery Flooring: Spills at public places such as grocery stores, restaurants or malls can be a major cause of accidents. The property owner is responsible for cleaning up spills, or at the very least marking wet flooring to warn people about the danger.
- Uneven or Damaged Flooring: It can be difficult to see cracked tiles, loose carpeting or uneven floorboards. This could cause people to trip. These conditions can be especially dangerous in areas with high traffic, such as shopping centers and office buildings.
- Poor Lighting: People can be unable to detect potential hazards in parking lots, hallways or stairwells with inadequate lighting. Dimly lit areas can increase the chance of people tripping on obstacles or uneven surfaces.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, ice, and snow can cause slippery surfaces at building entrances, parking lots and sidewalks. Property owners are responsible for making the area safe by taking reasonable measures, like salting the sidewalks and shoveling the snow.
- Cluttered Pathways: Left out items, such as cords, tools, or merchandise can cause tripping hazards. Owners of property and business operators are responsible for keeping paths clear.
- Broken Handrails, or Damaged Stairs: People can lose their balance and fall if there are damaged or inadequate handrails in the stairwells. It is particularly dangerous for those who are elderly or have limited mobility.
How an Attorney Can Help After a Slip and Fall Accident
You may be entitled compensation if you have been injured due to the negligence of another person. This includes medical expenses, lost wages and pain and discomfort. It can be difficult to prove liability in such cases. An attorney can be of assistance in the following ways:
- Investigate The Incident: A personal injury lawyer will investigate your fall in detail. This could include reviewing security footage and interviewing witnesses. It may also involve examining the accident scene to gather important evidence.
- Establish Liability: A slip and fall lawsuit requires that you prove the negligence of the property owner. Your lawyer will show that the property owner was negligent and knew about or should have been aware of the dangerous condition.
- Handle Insurance Companies: Insurance companies might try to minimize your injuries or make a low-ball settlement offer. A lawyer with experience will negotiate on your behalf and ensure that you are compensated fairly for any injuries.
- Represent you in Court: If an agreement cannot be reached on a fair settlement, your attorney may decide to take the case to court. They will use expert testimony and evidence to present your case at court.
- Calculate Damages: A personal injury lawyer will help you calculate your damages. This may include medical costs, future treatment costs and lost wages as well as compensation for pain and discomfort.
In many cases, slip and fall accidents are preventable. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal system if your accident was the result of someone else’s negligence. They will also assist you in recovering the compensation that you deserve. You can concentrate on recovering while your lawyer holds the responsible parties accountable.
This post was written by a professional at W. Lee Clark & Associates. W. Lee Clark & Associates is a dedicated law firm based in Lakewood Ranch, FL, specializing in personal injury, slip and fall injury attorneys near you, mass torts, defective product lawyer near you, tobacco and vaping-related cases, and wrongful death attorney in Florida. With extensive experience and a client-first approach, the firm proudly serves clients throughout Manatee, Sarasota, Polk, Hillsborough, and Pinellas counties. Whether you’ve been injured due to a defective product or are seeking justice for the wrongful death of a loved one, W. Lee Clark & Associates provides the guidance and legal representation you need to protect your rights and pursue compensation. Click here to learn more!
