Slip and Fall
According to the National Floor Safety Institute, slip and falls are the leading cause of workers’ compensation claims. These cases do not just happen at work though. Slip and fall cases can also happen on private property, in stores, at public pools and other commonly used locations. If you have been injured while walking and slipping, then you should seek counsel from a qualified slip and fall attorney.
Hazardous Conditions that Lead to Slip and Fall Cases
A property owner is responsible for keeping the area clear and safe for people. Unfortunately, this does not always happen and conditions are created that make slip and falls likely to occur. Examples of hazardous conditions include:
- Standing water;
- Greasy flooring;
- Uncleared ice;
- Polished walking surface that needs to be replaced;
- Unmarked spill; and
- Poor lighting.
Common Injuries from Slipping
In slip and fall accidents, people can sustain injuries as serious as brain trauma. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the most common way to sustain a traumatic brain injury. Other possible injuries from slipping are:
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Fractures – Hip fractures are common, especially when an elderly person slips. Other fractures to the wrist and elbow are caused when a person reaches their arms out to break the fall. These injuries can keep a person from their job and can take months to heal.
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Ankle sprains – If the slip causes the ankle to turn in an odd direction and all of the body’s weight is above the ankle, it can lead to a nasty ankle sprain. A serious ankle sprain can be just as serious as a fracture, since surgery could be required.
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Whiplash – While people commonly associate whiplash with car collisions, it can also occur if a person slips and their head breaks the fall.
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Lacerations – A slip and fall near a sharp object could result in a person ending up with a deep cut that requires medical attention.
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Others – Pretty much any part of the body can be hurt when a person slips and falls. It all depends on which direction they fall, how far they fall, and what other obstructions are in the way of the fall.
Steps to Take After Your Fall
If you have been injured in a slip and fall, there are a few steps you should take as soon as possible. Beyond getting medical care, you should make sure to get information from all witnesses, so they can give their account of what happened. Next, be sure to take pictures of the scene. This is easier than ever now that cell phones can take pictures and video. It is important to have the initial visual documentation because the area could be cleaned up or altered after you leave, which will significantly weaken your case. Also, be sure to notify the property owner or manager of the incident. Finally, be sure to contact a slip and fall lawyer who can assist you in beginning the legal process for getting compensated for your injuries.
Contact a Slip and Fall Attorney
At the Tison Law Group in Tampa Bay, our goal is to get you the best compensation for the damages you have incurred. We can handle the paperwork and file the necessary legal claims for your case so that you are not burdened while also trying to recover. For more information and a free consultation, contact our offices at (813) 739-1776.
