Slip and fall accidents can occur in a variety of settings and cause many types of injuries. If you have recently been a slip and fall accident, you may want to discuss your legal options with a slip and fall lawyer. You may be entitled to compensation.
Here are some common causes of slip and fall accidents.
Wet Floors
Wet floors cause a large percentage of slip and fall accidents in the U.S. Whether it’s a milk spill or moisture collection from the rain, these conditions can make the floors very slippery and dangerous. That’s why property owners must keep an eye out for wet floors and clean them immediately.
Broken Handrails
Many people rely on handrails to safely walk up and down staircases. However, if the handrails are broken, they can’t do their job properly. As the legal professionals at Cohen & Cohen can confirm, people are at risk of suffering slip and fall accidents without adequate handrails. If you fell due to broken handrails, you deserve to be compensated.
Stray Cords
Stray cords present tripping hazards in many settings, from workplaces to grocery stores. Property owners and managers should make sure that cords are always tucked away and kept out of walking areas so that people don’t get hurt.
Improper Footwear
The shoes that you have on your feet can also lead to a slip and fall accident. For example, if you wear flip-flops by the side of a pool or other wet area, you may slip and fall. Likewise, boots and sneakers can also be dangerous if they are worn out or don’t have the proper traction.
Poor Lighting
Places that are poorly lit are more likely to result in slip and fall accidents. When people can’t see where they’re going, they can fall and hurt themselves. Property owners are responsible for making sure that the common areas are properly lit at all times. They should periodically check their lightbulbs to make sure they are still working.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident
Getting into a slip and fall accident can be a very shocking experience. However, it’s important to take proper steps afterward to ensure your right to compensation. Begin by letting the property owner know about the hazardous situation. If it’s a place of business, like a grocery store, they may file an accident report. Try to take photos of the accident scene with your smartphone camera, if feasible.
Slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries, like broken bones and head injuries, so seek immediate medical treatment. A doctor should evaluate your injuries and recommend the proper treatment.
It’s also important to speak to an experienced slip and fall accident lawyer. A lawyer can help you file a claim against the negligent parties and negotiate with the insurance party. He or she will guide you through the entire process and give you peace of mind.
Schedule a consultation with a slip and fall accident lawyer today.
