Slip and Fall Accident Attorney Overview

Lawyer Representation in Premises Liability Cases

When someone loses their balance, leaves their feet, and falls to the ground, they are likely to be embarrassed, but they may also harm much more than their dignity. These types of accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, dislocated joints, traumatic brain injury, and damage to the back, neck, or spine.

If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident that occurred on someone else's property, a personal injury attorney can help you understand your options for pursuing compensation for your damages. A skilled lawyer can help demonstrate that the injury was caused by a property owner's negligence, showing that they are responsible for your injuries.

Common Reasons for Slip and Fall Injuries

Slip and fall accidents occur in a wide variety of locations, and they are often caused by a property owner's failure to properly maintain their premises. Situations that can cause injuries include:

• Wet or slippery floors - Property owners should provide proper warnings if floors are slippery because they were recently cleaned or due to weather, or they should close off areas in which slipping hazards exist. Hazardous conditions can also be created if floor wax or treatment is applied improperly or inconsistently.
• Ice or snow on sidewalks - People may suffer slip and fall injuries if a property owner does not properly remove snow or ice from walking surfaces, or if water accumulates and freezes because of improper drainage methods.
• Dangerous stairs or defective escalators - Falls from a higher level to a lower level can occur if stairs become worn out or damaged, or if escalators malfunction due to improper maintenance.
• Uneven pavement, flooring, or carpet - Cracked or uneven sidewalks, floors with loose or missing tiles, parking lots with potholes, or torn or loose carpets can create tripping hazards.
• Missing, damaged, or defective railings - When handrails on walkways or stairs break, or when proper rails are not installed, people can suffer serious injuries, especially if they fall from a significant height.
• Improper lighting - When people have difficulty seeing curbs, steps, or debris in a walkway because of insufficient lighting, they may be unable to avoid being injured by these or other hazards.

Following a slip and fall injury, it is important to gather evidence, such as photographs of the hazard and statements from witnesses. A premises liability attorney can help you understand how the laws of your state apply to your situation, and they can show that your injury was the result of a property owner's negligence, allowing you to receive compensation for your medical treatment, lost income, and pain and suffering.