Slip and Fall Accidents

 

Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injuries in the United States, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2013, over 8.7 million people suffered injuries because of a slip, trip or fall, nearly 2.5 million of whom were senior citizens.

Falls can occur anywhere – in the workplace, at home, while shopping or while simply walking from point A to point B. Many people walk away from falls with only a couple of scrapes or bruises, but in some cases, the injuries are far worse. About 20 percent of all slip, trip and fall accidents result in what the CDC calls “severe injuries,” such as head injuries or fractures.

Serious injuries can mean substantial medical bills, lost wages, and other damages that leaves victims scrambling to find ways to stay afloat financially. In fact, according to the CDC, the annual national cost for medical care for fall injuries amounts to $34 billion, and that figure doesn’t even scratch the surface of the actual total costs that includes pain and suffering and missed time at work.

 

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

 

There are numerous hazards that contribute to falls.

• Loose rugs, mats and carpeting
• Uneven floors
• Slick floors (mopped, waxed, spills)
• Broken pavement or sidewalk
• Merchandise, clutter or boxes
• Equipment and tools left on the ground
• Bottom drawers that are left open
• Poor lighting
• Wires and cords along footpaths
• Broken hand rails or lack of a railing
• Wearing improper footwear for conditions
• Unmarked ditches and manholes
• Lose steps, floorboards or thresholds
• Inadequate signs or barriers on construction worksites

 

Can I Seek Compensation For My Fall Accident?

 

If your fall was caused by another party’s negligence or carelessness, you might be able to file an injury claim to recover your damages. Most slip and fall cases fall under an area of the law referred to as premises liability.

So, the question is, “Was the owner negligent?” A slip and fall accident attorney at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault can review the specifics of your accident and identify any ways in which the owner neglected his or her duty of care. If there were hazards present that the owner knew or should have known about, and he or she didn’t fix it or warn you about it, chances are good that you’ll qualify to file a claim and seek restitution for damages. 

 

Moving Forward with a Slip and Fall Accident Claim

 

To file and win a claim, you’ll need to have the proof necessary to establish negligence/fault, as well as to show that it was the owner’s negligence that caused your injuries. Evidence such as witness testimonies, photos and videos, and business maintenance/inspection reports can be helpful. Plus, you’ll need to be sure to adhere to the state’s time limits for filing a claim and abide by all the legal procedural requirements. An attorney can assist you with all of this.

If you or your loved one were hurt in a slip, trip or fall accident, we encourage you to call our caring, tenacious slip and fall accident attorney team at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault. We can help you with all aspects of your claim and fight for the maximum compensation allowable. Call us today at 419-843-6663 or fill our online contact form and schedule a free consultation.