When to Take Action after a Slip and Fall Incident

Today, slip and fall incidents occur rather often. In fact, according to the National Floor Safety Institute, more than one million of these incidents result in visits to the emergency room each year. In many cases, these types of traumatic injuries are the result of negligence on the behalf of the property owner.

Causes of Slip and Fall Incidents

There are several circumstances that can lead to a slip and fall accident. From puddles to torn carpet, it’s the property owner’s responsibility to maintain easy to navigate and safe conditions that prevent the occurrence of slip and fall accidents. A few of the common causes of a slip and fall accident can be found here:

• Slippery or wet indoor surfaces

According to information from the National Floor Safety Institute, these types of hazardous surfaces result in approximately 55 percent of all slip and fall incidents. In many cases surfaces are wet, which makes them slippery, due to a spill or having been recently mopped.  Employers and business owners are required to either take action and dry the surfaces or to warn people coming onto the property about the potential hazard present.

• Bad weather

While it’s not possible to control the weather, any property owner needs to know the proper way to respond to any adverse weather conditions both responsibly and promptly. This means that they must take action to clear away icy or snowy walkways. They must also clean up any debris – such as a fallen tree branch – after a storm comes through. According to Accuweather, the issue of “unnatural accumulation” is a key cause of slip and fall cases.

• Clutter

Believe it or not, having a bunch of “stuff” lying around is actually quite hazardous. Business owners need to keep their premises free from any obstructions that may injure either employees or customers.

Common Injuries with a Slip and Fall Accident

A slip and fall incident can lead to a number of devastating injuries. Some of the most common seen include:

• Head injuries
• Hip fractures
• Shoulder dislocation
• Ankle sprains
• Slipped or herniated discs
• Lacerations

In severe situations, a slip and fall accident can even cause wrongful death.

When to Take Action after a Slip and Fall Incident

If you were involved in a slip and fall accident that was caused by negligence, then you might be considered responsible for the damages that occur.  For this reason, it is crucial that you seek proper medical attention as soon as you can to help you minimize the damage to your overall health and provide you with the documentation necessary for your personal injury case (if you move forward).

After you have completed the medical evaluation, be sure to contact a personal injury lawyer. An attorney will ensure that all the necessary evidence is gathered to build a strong case and help you get the compensation you deserve for the injuries you suffered. Unfortunately, there are many premise owners who fail to maintain properly safe conditions. The good news is, it is possible to hold these negligent businesses, and these individuals, accountable. To learn more, contact Hastings and Hastings in at 800-975-0080.