Personal Injury

Slip-and-Fall Accidents Explained

Every time someone is on someone else’s property, there is a potential for a slip-and-fall accident to occur. If the accident happens, it is considered a premises liability, and the property owner is responsible for any damages or injuries.

Slip-and-fall accidents can take many forms. They can occur when someone trips on a step, trips on an uneven sidewalk, slips on wet floors, slips on snow and ice, falls downstairs due to broken handrails, or is injured by debris left in walking paths.

This article explains everything you need to know about slip-and-fall accidents.

What Is a Slip-and-Fall Accident?

A slip-and-fall accident involves an individual slipping, tripping, or sliding and falling onto the ground while on someone else’s property. It is considered a premises liability and could result in serious injuries or damages.

For a slip-and-fall accident to be categorized as so, it must occur on someone else’s property, the property owner was negligent in maintaining the premises, and an injury or damage occurred.

What Are the Different Types of Slip-and-Fall Accidents?

There are three types of slip-and-fall accidents: slip-and-fall, trip-and-fall, and step-and-fall. While all three involve slipping and falling, they have distinct differences.

Slip-and-fall accidents occur when someone slips and falls on a slippery surface, such as a wet floor or icy sidewalk. They are probably the most common type of slip-and-fall accidents.

Trip-and-fall accidents occur when an individual trips on something, such as a broken or uneven step, or a piece of debris left in the walking path. The most common types of trip-and-falls are due to poor lighting, lack of handrails, and objects left in the path.

Step-and-fall accidents occur when someone steps into a hole or depression in the ground and falls onto the ground. Poor groundskeeping practices, construction problems, or damage to the property can cause these accidents.

Trespassing in Slip-and-Fall Accidents

A trespasser is an individual who enters a property without permission. Generally, property owners do not owe any duty of care to trespassers and are not held responsible for injuries or damages on their property.

However, there are exceptions to this rule. If a property owner had knowledge of the trespasser and did not take reasonable steps to secure their property, they may be held responsible for any damages or injuries that occur on their property.

Understanding the Duty of the Property Owner

Under the law, every property owner must take reasonable steps to ensure their premises are safe and free from hazards. This is known as the duty of care.

It means that property owners must inspect their property regularly and promptly fix any defects or problems they find.

They should also take precautions to prevent slip-and-falls by putting up warning signs, clearing away debris, and cleaning up spills.

If the property owner fails to fulfill their duty of care and an injury occurs on their premises, as a result, they may be held responsible for any damages or injuries that occur.

Common Injuries in Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Slip-and-fall accidents can result in a range of injuries. Common injuries include broken bones, sprains, strains, bruises, and even head or spinal cord injuries.

Sometimes, slip-and-fall accidents can also cause psychological trauma, such as anxiety or depression.

So, seek immediate medical attention if you are involved in a slip-and-fall accident. Don’t assume you are not injured- even small slips and falls can cause serious injuries.

Filing a Slip-and-Fall Lawsuit

If you were injured in a slip-and-fall accident, you might be eligible to file a premises liability lawsuit against the property owner. However, there are certain elements of proof that must be proven to win a slip-and-fall claim.

You must prove that the property owner was negligent in maintaining their premises, that you were injured as a result of this negligence, and that your injury caused damages or losses.

You may also need to prove that the property owner knew about the hazard which caused the slip-and-fall.

If you believe you have a valid claim, it is important to consult with an experienced premises liability attorney who can review your case and advise you on the best course of action.

Compensation for Slip-and-Fall Accidents

If a property owner is found to have failed in maintaining their premises, they may be held responsible for any damages or injuries that occur due to the negligence. Individuals who suffer an injury in a slip-and-fall accident may be eligible for financial compensation.

Compensation typically includes reimbursement for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Sometimes, punitive damages may also be awarded in a slip-and-fall lawsuit.

Slip-and-fall accidents can cause serious injuries and losses. If you have been injured in a Slip-and-Fall, make sure you understand your rights and seek legal advice.

Conclusion

Slip-and-fall accidents are a common type of premises liability and can result in serious injuries or damages.

It is important to understand the different types of slip-and-fall accidents and the duty of care that property owners owe to visitors and trespassers.

If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, you should consult with an experienced premises liability attorney. The attorney can review your case and advise you on the best action to seek compensation for your injuries.