Over 540,000 slip and fall injuries occur in North America each year, and they are the foremost cause of emergency room visits (www.floridasurestep.com). For senior citizens over the age of 65, there is an increased likelihood of a fall resulting in hospitalization or a fatality. One in three slip and fall accidents result in death for those over the age of 85. Each accidental fall costs an average of $28,000, not including loss of wages.
Slip and fall accidents are legally addressable when a property owner is responsible for the conditions or circumstances of a fall. Common situations include broken stairwells, wet floors, hazardous areas (such as unfenced pools), slippery sidewalks, uneven walkways and premise obstructions. If it falls within a person’s reasonable legal duty to provide safe conditions for occupancy or trespass, then failure to do so may be considered negligent in a court of law.
If you have been personally injured as the result of a slip and fall accident, you may be able to receive compensation for your pain and suffering as well as medical costs and loss of income during and after your recovery period. To win a slip and fall case, it must first be proven that the property owner knew or should have known of the accident’s cause, and that he or she either acted or failed to act so that it resulted in your slip and fall injury. It is highly suggested that you consult with a lawyer who handles slip and fall cases before negotiating with property owners or their insurance companies to ensure that you are fairly and fully compensated.
If you have experienced a slip and fall or trip and fall accident that occurred at your place of employment, and are seeking worker’s compensation benefits, you may want to retain a dedicated worker’s compensation lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected.
We know how difficult it can be to recover physically, emotionally and financially from a slip and fall accident. Let us help you ease the process by providing thoughtful and efficient legal aid every step of the way to get you the results you deserve. Contact the Law Offices of Gross & Telisman for a free conversation about your slip and fall claim.