Anyone can trip or have a slip and fall accident in a variety of places and circumstances. This may be because of poor design of the premises, neglected maintenance, external conditions or a variety of other factors.
Slip, trips and fall incidents regularly occur on private properties like parking lots, driveways, stores, warehouses or government property. These cases usually fall under the broader category of cases known as “premises liability” claims. The owners of these properties are obligated to take reasonable steps to make their premises reasonably safe.
There are many unsafe conditions like poor lighting, narrow stairs, torn carpets, variations in flooring, or a wet floor that can cause someone to slip, fall and be injured. This can also happen if someone trips on a cracked public sidewalk, or falls down a flight of stairs. In addition, a slip and fall case might arise when someone slips or falls outdoors because of snow, ice, rain, or a hidden hazard.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (United States Department of Labor):
(https://www.osha.gov/dte/grant_materials/fy07/sh-16625-07/slipstripsfalls.ppt)
Slips, trips & falls make up majority of general industry accidents (USDoL):
- 15% of all accidental deaths; 2nd leading cause behind motor vehicles (12,000/year)
- One of most frequently-reported injuries (25% of reported claims/year)
- Over 17% of all disabling occupational injuries result from falls (Most could have been prevented)
The most common injuries associated with slips, trips and fall accidents are: Sprains & strains, Bruises & concussions, Fractures, Abrasions & lacerations. The Typical Injuries by body part are: Knee, ankle and/or foot, Wrist &/or elbow, Back &/or shoulder, Hip, Head.
If you have been injured as a result of a trip, slip or fall accident, it is essential to prove the condition of the premises at the time of the incident. Therefore, it is very important that photographs, videos and measurements be taken at the place of the accident as soon as possible after the accident has occurred. Otherwise, if the conditions change afterwards, it can be very difficult to prove that the premises were in a state of unreasonable repair at the time of the accident.
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall on someone else’s property and are considering a legal claim, you should discuss your case with an experienced attorney. The Law Offices of Brian J. Elbaum personal injury legal team in New York is well versed with the ins and outs of the of laws surrounding these types of incidents. Contact Us for more information
