Why are Slip and Falls Dangerous
Why Slip-and-Fall Accidents Are Dangerous
You might not think of a fall as a big deal, but slip-and-fall accidents can lead to serious injuries. Some common injuries include:
- Broken bones: A fall can easily lead to a fracture, especially in the arms, wrists, or hips.
- Sprains and strains: People often twist their ankles or wrists when they fall, leading to painful injuries that take weeks or months to heal.
- Head injuries: If you hit your head during a fall, you could suffer from a concussion or even more serious brain injuries.
- Back and spine injuries: Falling on your back can cause spinal injuries, which can lead to long-term pain or disability.
If you’ve been hurt in a slip-and-fall accident, you may face medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain. It’s important to hold the property owner responsible for keeping their place safe so you can get the compensation you deserve.
What Property Owners Must Do to Keep You Safe
Property owners are legally required to keep their premises safe for visitors, customers, and employees. This means they must:
- Fix hazards like wet floors, broken stairs, or poor lighting as soon as possible.
- Warn people about any temporary dangers, like a freshly mopped floor or construction work.
- Train employees to spot hazards and take quick action to fix them.
- Follow all safety regulations for things like building materials, stairs, and ramps.
If property owners don’t take these steps and someone gets hurt, they can be held liable for the injury. That means they may have to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other costs related to the accident.
What to Do If You’ve Been Hurt in a Slip-and-Fall Accident
If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, here’s what you should do:
1. Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you think you’re okay, it’s important to see a doctor. Some injuries, like head or back injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Getting medical care helps you recover and also documents your injury, which is important if you decide to take legal action.
2. Report the Accident
Make sure you report the accident to the business or property owner. Ask them to file a report and keep a copy for your records. This helps prove that the accident happened and shows the property owner was made aware of the hazard.
3. Take Photos and Get Information
If possible, take pictures of the area where you fell. This can show what caused the accident, whether it was a wet floor, broken handrail, or cluttered aisle. Also, try to get the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw the fall.
4. Call a Lawyer
A slip-and-fall lawyer can help you figure out if you have a legal case. They can investigate what happened, deal with insurance companies, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve. If the property owner was at fault, they should be held accountable for your injuries.
For more information on Conditions That Cause A Slip & Fall, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (210) 225-2828 today.
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