Slip and fall accidents happen, and they happen pretty often. In fact, they are the second most common non-fatal cause of workplace injuries. And that is not the only place they can happen, either.
Some slip and fall accidents happen because someone was negligent. If this is the case, then hiring a slip and fall lawyer may be necessary as it means your accident has happened as a result of someone else not taking the proper care to prevent it from happening.
The Most Common Reason for Slip and Fall Accidents
The most common cause of slip and fall accidents is wet and uneven surfaces. It makes up about half of these types of accidents, and negligence is the primary cause.
The various hazards include:
- Worn and torn carpet and mats
- Unstable and loose floorboards
- Clutter
- Defective sidewalks and potholes
- Dangerous staircases
- Water collection
- Mopped and waxed floors
Slip and fall accidents happen at home, at work, or in public places. The best we can do is create a safe environment for ourselves and those around us and we can use grit bins to keep the road clean and safe. However, when others don’t, it is sometimes their responsibility to compensate you for medical bills and other expenses due to the slip and fall.
Other Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Sometimes a slip and fall accident happens because of the weather. Unfortunately, the fact is, no one can control the climate. However, people can take steps towards creating weather safety procedures that will help prevent these sorts of accidents.
An example is winter safety protocols. It is up to business owners and local governments to plow roads, shovel sidewalks, and have fully stocked grit bins to hand, so they can salt walkways easily when needed to prevent others from slipping and falling.
When it comes to the workplace, they occur most often because of improper training. Your training relies solely on what your company provides you and your coworkers. The CDC has released guidelines to help prevent slip and fall accidents, but that does not mean they get followed.
It is up to companies to train their employees to use the equipment and tools necessary for the job. It also means providing workers with safety equipment and knowledge to do their tasks safely. The failure in training could leave an employer negligent and liable for damages.
Nursing Home Negligence
It is normal for people to occasionally just fall. However, as we get older, it becomes more common and sometimes can lead to severe injury and even death.
In nursing homes, some accidents are the result of negligence. For example, if a slip and fall accident happens because a nurse or aid did not help or monitor a resident, the facility is responsible. You should contact an attorney for a free consult if your family member is a victim of nursing home negligence.
How to Pursue a Slip and Fall Accident Claim
You have a right to compensation if you are a victim of negligence. The injuries of a slip and fall accident can range from bumps and bruises to broken bones and death. A slip-and-fall attorney is critical not only for getting compensation; they work as an advocate and help you through a devasting time in your life.
An investigation is part of the slip and fall accident claim process. Attorneys that specialize in slip and falls do the leg work to gather as much information as they possibly can to ensure a positive outcome to your case, including:
- Thoroughly examining the scene of the accident
- Taking collecting photo and video evidence of the scene and injuries
- Interviewing witnesses, medical professionals, and others with knowledge of the slip and fall
- Gathering information related to slip and fall – maintenance, procedures, training, etc.
Throughout the process, your attorney will assess your injuries and determine the impact on your life. You can help them through this part of your claim by keeping your medical history journal post-accident. Your records are what your lawyer will use to negotiate the right compensation for you.
Often, all parties agree to a fair settlement. However, that is not always the case. The inability to reach an agreement is the primary reason that you want an attorney that specializes in slip and fall accidents. In addition, you want someone who knows the law and understands how these sorts of cases work. It is about negotiating and fighting for the best outcome for you.
