Personal Injuries Due To Slips and Falls
In a related post, we discussed the most common types of people who are likely to be involved in pedestrian accidents. With increasing numbers of out-of-state motorists and tourists in the Palmetto State on summer vacations, these injuries focused on those resulting from motor vehicle accidents and being hit by a car while walking. In addition to traffic incidents, another common type of pedestrian accident concerns slip and fall injuries. Many of these accidents occur as the result of unsafe conditions, such as wet floors and uneven sidewalks, and under the legal theory of premises liability, victims injured in these accidents may be entitled to compensation through an insurance claim or through a personal injury lawsuit. While it may seem embarrassing to slip and fall in a public place, the injuries caused by these types of accident are no laughing matter. The following provides information on the conditions most likely to result in a slip or fall during the summer months, as well as the types of injuries that can result.
Common Conditions That Result in Slip and Fall Accidents
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), slip and fall accidents are among the most common types of accidental injuries, sending as many as eight million people to hospital emergency rooms each year. These types of accidents can happen anywhere, such as in grocery or department stores, restaurants and taverns. The NSC reports that the most common conditions under which these types of accidents occur include the following:
- At doorways, entrances, and exits to establishments
- In areas with crowds and heavy traffic, such as at amusement parks, concerts, and sporting events
- In cluttered aisles or hallways
- On uneven walkway surfaces, such as in a resort or strip mall
- On wet and slippery floors, such as in restaurants and grocery stores
- On stairs, such as in department stores, due to poor lighting and lack of handrails
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Injuries That Can Result from Slip and Falls
Slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries, even if there are no immediate symptoms. According to the Brain Injury Institute, these types of accidents are the leading cause for traumatic brain injury (TBI), a potentially life threatening condition with symptoms which can take days, weeks, and even months to fully appear. Other serious and, in some cases, disabling types of injuries that can occur as the result of a slip and fall include:
- Muscle and tendon strains, sprains, and tears
- Broken bones and multiple fractures
- Slipped and herniated disks
- Cuts, lacerations, and contusions
- Displaced joints and cartilage damage
In the event you suffer a slip and fall accident in a public place, notify the owner or supervisor for the establishment and either fill out an accident report or file a police report documenting the incident. Get medical care immediately, and follow all of your doctor’s instructions.
Get Help
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries as the result of slip and fall accident, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm. Our experienced personal injury lawyers provide the legal representation you need to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
