Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents are among the most common types of accidents in the workplace, public spaces, and even at home. According to the National Safety Council, over 8 million people are admitted to emergency rooms each year due to injuries caused by slip and fall accidents.
Serious injuries can mean substantial medical bills, lost wages, and other damages that leave victims scrambling to find ways to stay afloat financially. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injury and death in older adults in the United States. Based on statistics, the annual national cost of medical care for fall injuries amounts to billions of dollars.
Accidents involving slipping, tripping, and falling can occur in various locations, such as the workplace, home, shopping areas, or while taking a casual stroll. While most falls result in nothing more than a few scrapes and bruises, some can be far worse, leading to serious personal injuries such as head trauma or fractures. Severe injuries occur in approximately 20% of slip, trip, and fall accidents, as stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Numerous hazards contribute to falls, such as:
– 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 left open
– Poor lighting
– Wires and cords along footpaths
– Broken handrails or lack of a railing
– Wearing improper footwear for conditions
– Unmarked ditches and maintenance holes
– Loose steps, floorboards, or thresholds
– Inadequate signs or barriers on construction worksites
Can I Seek Compensation For My Slip and Fall Accident?
If your fall resulted from the negligence or carelessness of another party, you may be eligible to file an injury claim to recover your damages. Slip and fall cases typically fall under premises liability, an area of law that addresses responsibility for maintaining safe premises.
The key question is whether the owner was negligent. At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, our slip and fall accident attorneys can assess the specific details of your accident and determine if the owner breached their duty of care. If there were hazards that the owner knew or should have known about but failed to address or warn you about, you likely qualify to file a claim and seek compensation for your damages.
Filing a Claim with a Slip and Fall Accident Attorney: Moving Forward
To file and win a claim for a slip, trip, or fall accident, follow these key steps:
1. Gather necessary proof to establish negligence or fault. This includes witness testimonies, photos, videos, and relevant maintenance/inspection reports.
2. Ensure that the owner’s negligence directly caused your injuries.
3. Be mindful of the state’s time limits for filing a claim and adhere to all legal procedural requirements.
A slip and fall lawyer can assist a personal injury accident victim in seeking financial awards for their losses. If you or your loved one has been injured in a slip, trip, or fall accident, our dedicated team at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault is here to help. We are committed to supporting you throughout your claim and fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Call us today at 800-352-1976 or fill out our online contact form and schedule a free consultation.
