From time to time, we hear about or witness injuries resulting from slip and fall accidents. It’s quite likely that you, too, have tripped or lost your balance and fallen while walking. Slip and fall accidents are common for many of us, especially seniors over the age of 55. Unfortunately, when such an accident occurs, the situation is rarely straightforward. Slip and fall incidents can happen anywhere and at any time. It is essential to be cautious and observe all safety measures to prevent these undesirable events. Such accidents can occur in various locations, including parking lots, sidewalks, vacation rental properties, school or childcare playgrounds, shopping malls, or any other places with unsafe conditions.
In many cases, people assume that slipping and falling is their fault. However, this is not always true, as business owners, landlords, property owners, and other responsible parties may be negligent in their duties. These individuals are responsible for maintaining the properties and surfaces under their control. Any act of negligence that leads to a slip and fall is referred to as premises liability. Since it may not be your fault, you deserve compensation from the responsible party.
The effects of a slip and fall accident can vary from minor bruises to severe injuries like sprains, spinal injuries, or even death. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the common causes, example scenarios, statistics, and how you can seek compensation with the help of a lawyer. This guide will provide you with essential information about slip and fall accidents and direct you to the best personal injury law firm in California to approach if you find yourself in such a situation.
Most Slip and Fall Accidents Can Be Prevented Many slip and fall accidents are avoidable. These incidents are very common and costly, thus considered a public health issue. Preventing slips and falls requires businesses and individuals to take the necessary precautions to ensure their properties are safe for customers, guests, and employees.
The United States Department of Labor has published guidelines for property owners and employers on maintaining safe workplaces to minimize slip and fall accidents. It is alarming that, according to the National Safety Council, a significant percentage of unintentional deaths in the U.S. result from slip and fall accidents. These accidents can be prevented or minimized if everyone fulfills their responsibilities.
The most common cause of slip and fall accidents worldwide is wet and uneven surfaces. These conditions account for more than half of all reported slip and fall cases in the country. Concerning wet and uneven sidewalks, the following associated instances can be very dangerous.
Loose floorboards, mats, and worn-out carpeting are significant hazards. Freshly waxed or mopped surfaces, parking lot potholes, defective sidewalks, poorly constructed staircases, cluttered floors, and moisture collection also contribute to the dangers of wet and uneven surfaces. These conditions make slip and fall accidents common in various settings, including domestic, commercial, industrial, and public places. It is everyone’s responsibility to address these issues to prevent injuries and fatalities. Ensure floors are uncluttered and promptly fixed whenever uneven or wet surfaces are identified.
Weather is an uncontrollable natural occurrence and a leading cause of slip and fall accidents globally. Winter activities require extra caution, and building owners have a legal responsibility to shovel sidewalks, plow streets, and salt walkways. Neglecting these duties can result in liability for slip and fall accidents caused by weather conditions.
Inadequate training is a prevalent cause of slip and fall accidents in the construction industry. Both employees and employers must undergo proper training to prevent such incidents at work. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, along with other organizations, provides guidelines to educate people on avoiding slip and fall accidents. Proper training is essential for everyone on construction sites, including how to navigate the site and use various tools and equipment. Employers are liable for damages if proper training is not provided.
Stray electrical cords and wires are common hazards that cause slip and fall accidents. These cords can hook onto shoes or cause legs to slide, leading to falls. This issue is often encountered on busy streets. It is the responsibility of relevant parties to address and rectify this hazard. An experienced injury attorney can assist in securing compensation in such cases.
Many slip and fall cases occur in nursing homes, where vulnerable patients are often left unattended. Aging and sick individuals have a reduced sense of balance, increasing their risk of falls. These accidents can be life-threatening or exacerbate existing conditions. Ward administrators and nurses must assist and monitor patients to prevent such incidents.
Improper footwear is a top cause of slip and fall accidents. It’s not just high heels that pose a risk; even work boots and sneakers can contribute if they lack proper traction. Wearing the right type of shoes with adequate traction is crucial to avoid slipping and falling.
Handrails support people walking on pavements or staircases, and many slip and fall cases are linked to broken or missing handrails. Handrails are also important in bathrooms. If a fall occurs due to the absence of handrails on private premises, compensation is warranted.
Poor lighting in buildings and pavements is a common cause of slip and fall accidents. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates well-lit workplaces and public properties. Proper lighting improves visibility, especially at night. Employers must ensure adequate illumination of walkways, sidewalks, and staircases. Failure to provide proper lighting can lead to accidents, making the property owner liable for damages.
Other significant causes include fraud, poor stairway maintenance, pavement defects, snow and ice accumulation, torn or worn carpeting, and spilled liquids on the floor. Examples of negligence in slip and fall claims in California include:
If you are involved in a slip and fall accident, the experienced injury lawyers at Avian Law Group can assist you. We help assess the value of your claim and determine the appropriate course of action for compensation. We prepare your case to hold the responsible party accountable for your injuries and damages. Recovering from a slip and fall accident is stressful, and having a reputable injury lawyer is essential.
Slip and fall cases can be complex, and handling them alone can be overwhelming. Our expertise has resulted in over $100 million in recoveries for our clients. We investigate and gather key evidence to build a strong case. As the go-to slip and fall attorneys in California, we ensure that the responsible party is held accountable.
Avian Law Group services all of California and has won over $200 million for clients. As the premier slip and fall attorneys in the state, our consultations are always free, and we charge no fees unless we win your claim. If you are injured in a slip and fall accident in Los Angeles, Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto, San Diego, San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, or anywhere else in California, contact us at (888) 465-0540 immediately. We will ensure you receive the medical care you need promptly.
The sooner you reach out to us, the faster we can assess your situation and determine your compensation value. We are dedicated to fighting for our clients until they receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Working with Avian Law Group ensures you get the best medical coverage and a victorious outcome for your slip and fall accident lawsuit.