Slip and fall accidents can be devastating and leave you with serious injuries, medical bills, and time off work. It can be a daunting task to navigate who is responsible for your injuries and how to pay your medical bills. Seeking the help of Ohio Slip and Fall Lawyers from Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault can ease the burden on you and your family during this difficult time. Our experience and expertise can help you receive the compensation you deserve and hold those responsible for your injuries accountable. Your focus should be on your recovery; let the professionals handle the rest.
The Impact of Cold Weather
During the winter months, slip-and-fall accidents are a frequent occurrence due to the presence of snow and ice on walkways and roads. These accidents can happen at any time of the year but are more prevalent in winter. Falls are the primary cause of non-fatal injuries in the United States, accounting for approximately 8 million emergency room visits annually, as reported by the US National Safety Council. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also conducted a study revealing that the rate of falls increases as temperatures drop.
Liability for Slip and Fall Accidents
Dangerous property conditions typically cause slip-and-fall accidents. Property owners and landlords are legally obligated to keep their premises safe and free from hazards that could cause injury. If they fail to do so, they can be held liable for the resulting injuries. However, liability depends on the specific circumstances of each case.
If you have a slip and fall accident, you should take the following steps:
1. Report the accident to the property owner or manager.
2. Take pictures of the scene of the accident.
3. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
4. Seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured.
5. Contact an experienced slip and fall attorney to discuss your case.
Paying for Medical Bills
After a slip and fall accident, you may have medical bills that must be paid. If someone else is liable for the accident, their insurance may cover your medical bills. However, insurance companies may try to deny your claim or offer you a settlement that is less than what you deserve. This is why it’s important to have an experienced slip-and-fall attorney on your side.
Your own health insurance may also cover your medical bills. If you don’t have health insurance, you can try to negotiate with your healthcare providers or seek financial assistance from charities or government programs.
Preventing Slip and Fall Accidents
The best way to avoid slip-and-fall accidents is to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. If you’re a property owner or manager, you should regularly inspect your property and fix any hazards promptly. Some ways to prevent slip and fall accidents include:
1. Cleaning up spills immediately.
2. Providing adequate lighting.
3. Fixing loose or uneven flooring, pavement, or stairs.
4. Using nonslip mats or rugs in high-traffic areas.
5. Clearing snow and ice from walkways and parking lots.
When Property Owners are Negligent, Accidents Happen
It’s not uncommon to find ourselves on another person’s property at some point in our lives. Whether we’re renting a place or simply visiting friends, we all hope to feel safe and secure while on someone else’s property. Unfortunately, accidents can happen, which is where premises liability comes in. If a property owner fails to maintain a safe environment and a visitor or guest is injured as a result, the legal responsibility falls on the owner. This means that those who are injured on someone else’s property may be able to file a premises liability claim against the property owner. It’s important for property owners to exercise reasonable care to ensure the safety of their visitors and guests, as well as their own legal protection.
Deteriorated or Unsafe Surfaces
The first possible scenario under premises liability is a deteriorated or unsafe sidewalk, driveway, or parking lot. A poorly maintained surface can cause slip and fall accidents, one of the most common premises liability claims. A property owner is responsible for identifying and adequately maintaining these areas to ensure they are suitable for use. One can mitigate the risk of accidents by looking for any cracks or irregularities in the pavement. If one identifies a hazard, it’s best to notify the property owner, or if one is the owner, take the necessary steps to fix it.
Falling Objects
Falling objects can lead to severe injuries, especially if they are heavy or sharp. Property owners must gauge the security of any items that could fall or topple on their premises. This includes items such as bookcases, lighting fixtures, and other furniture or accessories. Often, the danger zone of these items is in high-traffic areas such as entryways. To avoid injuries caused by falling objects, it is crucial to maintain a clear zone around these fixtures and secure fixed items with proper fastenings and bolts.
Hazards on Walkways or Floors
Ignoring debris, ice, oil, or some other foreign substance on walkways or floors is are significant hazard for foot traffic. They often result from inadequate upkeep or failures to clean space after some spills or water damage to the area. Such substances can cause slip and fall or trip and fall claims. If you see a foreign substance or notice a slippery spot on the ground, it is best to clean the area, report it to the property managers or owners, and put up appropriate signage indicating the potential hazard.
Inadequate Signage and Warnings
Finally, inadequate signage and warnings of possible hazards might cause unwary individuals to stumble upon dangerous terrain. All property owners are required to provide a warning for any potential hazards or risks that may exist on their property. This requirement is why you will see signs indicating wet floors, broken steps, changing going from one level to another, or uneven surfaces. A lack of warning when hazards exist could lead to premises liability claims. Everyone is responsible for their safety, but signage protects both visitors and the owners of a particular property.
Trust the Experts at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault
Slip and fall accidents can happen to anyone, whether you’re out for a quick run to the grocery store or walking to your car after a long day at work. If someone else’s negligent actions cause your injury, knowing your rights and options is important. Seeking the help of an experienced slip and fall attorney can assist you in determining liability, filing a claim, and securing the compensation you deserve. With the support of experts, you can focus on recovering and healing while your attorney handles the legal nuances of your case. The attorneys at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault are ready to help you navigate this difficult situation and advocate for your needs. It’s also important to always be aware of your surroundings, exercise caution, and take prompt action if you or someone you know experiences a slip-and-fall accident.
Know your rights and protect your family. Contact Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault now for a free consultation with a slip and fall attorney at one of our convenient office locations. Please call 419-843-6663 or contact us online to schedule your complimentary case evaluation with the Ohio slip and fall lawyers.
