As an expert in personal injury law, I have seen countless cases of slip and fall accidents. These types of accidents occur when a person loses traction or trips, causing them to fall to the ground. They are often caused by wet surfaces or slippery objects on the floor, resulting in a loss of balance or contact with the ground. While they may seem like minor incidents, slip and fall accidents can have serious consequences, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to total physical disability or even death. When defining what a slip and fall accident is, it's important to note that it usually involves an object or circumstance that caused the fall, such as a slippery floor or poorly lit staircase.
These accidents can happen on a single level, from one level to another lower level, or while descending several levels, such as stairs. In order to receive compensation for a slip and fall accident, it must be proven that the property owner was at fault. Liability for slip and fall injuries can result from the fact that the defendant owns the premises where the injury occurred, has control of the facilities, or both. This means that if you were injured on someone else's property, you may be entitled to compensation if it can be proven that the property owner was negligent in maintaining their property. However, if a jury determines that you are more than 50% at fault for the accident, you will not be entitled to any compensation. One important factor to consider in a slip and fall case is whether or not you were legally allowed to be on the property at the time of the accident.
If you were considered a guest or had the property owner's permission to be there, they have a duty to take care of you and ensure your safety. This means that if they were aware of a danger on their property and failed to address it, they may be held liable for any injuries that occur as a result. At Ben Crump Law, PLLC, we specialize in slip and fall cases and can help you build a strong case, negotiate with insurance companies, and even take your case to court if necessary. Our team of experienced lawyers understands the complexities of these types of cases and will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), slips and falls are the third leading cause of preventable death in the United States, after accidental poisoning and car accidents. This is why it's crucial for property owners to take proper precautions to prevent these types of accidents from occurring.
They must perform routine repairs and maintenance, as well as address any potential hazards on their property. Slips and falls are especially dangerous for older adults, with the CDC reporting that they are the leading cause of death among people aged 65 and older. In fact, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has classified these incidents as one of the “four fatal causes”, making them one of the four leading causes of workplace death in the country.