All There Is to Know About Slip and Fall Accidents

Sponsored by: Largey Law

Research has shown that many people are unaware of slip and fall accidents and their dangers. From slippery to poorly constructed surfaces, slip and fall accidents could be fatal, and when another party is responsible, they could lead to a potential lawsuit. 

While many assume that such accidents are rare, the reality is contradictory. Every year, more than 3 million people are treated in emergency rooms for falls, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Most accidents result in personal injury claims where the litigant seeks compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You can successfully file a lawsuit with a good lawyer and receive payment for your damages. So what kinds of hazards can lead to personal injury lawsuits? Read on to find out. 

Hazardous Slip and Fall Surfaces

Below is a list of areas that pose a significant risk of slips and falls. 

Surfaces With Debris

Objects like food particles, nails, or small stones could cause one to trip, slide or fall. The property owner is legally responsible for clearing these hazards or putting up warning signs for the public. 

Wet Surfaces

Wet surfaces are the most common cause of slips and falls. Floors are often wet due to ongoing cleaning or spills. When cleaning, property owners should remove hazards as soon as they are spotted and display warning signs for wet floors.

Broken Stairs

A slippery staircase, broken or missing steps, and missing handrails are some of the hazards that can cause slips and falls.

Poorly-Lit Areas

Areas with bad lighting are also contributors to slip and fall accidents. Limited visibility can make a bad situation worse and possibly fatal when the accident is a long-distance fall.

Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident

The first and most crucial step is to seek medical attention. Your overall well-being should be at the top of your priorities, and you must see a doctor to address any injuries. Moreover, medical reports could be used as evidence when settling your case. 

The next step is reporting the incident. Be sure to get a well-written report from the manager, owner, or person in a position of authority where the accident happened. While doing this, get the contact details and statements of those involved. Remember to take photos of the accident scene, including the conditions that caused the accident.  

The final step is hiring an attorney to advise on the legal action to take. Insurance companies may ask you loaded questions that use your words against you. Avoid giving statements to insurance companies without your attorney.

Conclusion

“Filing a personal injury lawsuit without an attorney is a complicated affair,” says personal injury lawyer Christopher Largey of Largey Law. There are multiple steps to ensuring a successful settlement, including proving negligence, gathering evidence, and recovering the settlement for your damages. 

Moreover, the statute of limitations requires that lawsuits of this nature be filed within a specified time frame. It can be challenging to accomplish all this, especially if you are still recovering.

An attorney will help represent you in court and carry out most legal procedures. They can obtain the required documents and even help you calculate the approximate value of your damages. Having an attorney on your side improves your chances of a successful claim.

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