Not So Funny in Real Life — Slip & Fall Accidents

On television and in the movies, pratfalls are the stuff of comedy. However, when it happens in real life, you can suffer serious and debilitating injuries. Slip and fall accidents are no laughing matter, especially during the winter months, when slipping hazards seem to be everywhere. And when you’re injured on someone else’s premises due to their negligence, things get complicated. A personal injury lawyer can help you sort through the intricacies of your accident and give you the time and peace of mind you need to recover.

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Types of Slip and Falls

Slip and fall accidents can happen indoors or outdoors. They usually happen when a dangerous condition exists on someone else’s property, and you suffer injury as a result. Following are some common causes of slip and fall accidents:

• Wet floors from tracked-in rain, snow, or spills
• Damaged floors or stairs, including loose floorboards, ripped carpet, or loose tiles
• Improper lighting
• Dangerous floors due to clutter, causing tripping hazards
• Damaged walkways, including uneven sidewalks, potholes, or cracks

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Conditions like these can cause serious harm. Slip and fall lawyers commonly see these types of injuries:

• Spine, neck, and back injuries
• Head or traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Torn ligaments or tendons
• Broken bones, especially the hips or pelvis in older people

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A slip and fall injury can cost untold financial hardship in medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

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Premises Liability, Explained

Don’t automatically attribute your slip and fall to your own clumsiness! The legal concept of premises liability means the owner or manager of the property may hold responsibility for your injuries. Property owners have a legal obligation to keep their premises safe from dangerous conditions. You might have a case for premises liability when the following conditions are met:

• The owner caused the dangerous condition (for example, failing to clear up ice or snow)
• The owner was notified of the hazard, but didn’t clean it or repair it in a reasonable amount of time
• The owner was aware of the hazard, but made no effort to rectify it

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Premises liability cases regarding slip and fall accidents can be complicated. Many factors come into play, including the insurance company. The property owner’s insurance company will likely contact you after a slip and fall. Although the insurance company may act like your ally, never sign paperwork or agree to a settlement without consulting a personal injury lawyer. You deserve the maximum compensation for your injuries.

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Slip and Fall Attorneys Helping You Up

If you suffer injuries from a slip and fall accident, Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq can help. Please call 1-800-923-3456 or contact us online to speak with our compassionate personal injury team.