Every year thousands of people in California are injured in slip and fall accidents. These accidents can happen literally anywhere but frequently occur at locations such as retail stores, commercial buildings, on sidewalks, and in parking lots. Many of these accidents are preventable and result from the Negligence of property owners. Slip and fall accidents can lead to serious injury and are particularly dangerous for elderly people.
Slip and fall accidents can be caused by a variety of hazardous or dangerous conditions. Common causes include the presence of liquids or slippery substances on floors, inadequate lighting, improper handrail installation, building code violations, unsafe stairs or escalators, and uneven pavement or debris in walkways and parking lots. Slip and fall injuries can be caused by anything from a shopkeeper failing to clean up a spill in a timely way to a city contractor neglecting to mark or cover an open manhole.
Injuries from a slip and fall accident can range from minor superficial injuries to serious trauma. Simple injuries such as sprains, bruises and pulled muscles can still be painful and require medical care, especially for elderly people. More serious slip and fall injuries such as broken bones, back injuries, head trauma and neck injuries always require immediate medical attention. Some injuries from slip and fall accidents may not be obvious right away and symptoms may develop or worsen over time. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Depending on the location of the accident, several different parties may be liable for a slip and fall accident. Many lawsuits involve claims against homeowners, business owners, contractors, employers, vessel owners or operators and even government agencies. The most common theory of liability in a slip and fall case is Negligence or property, home and business owners generally owe a duty to maintain a reasonable level of safety on their premises. Business owners, such as department stores, grocery stores, and hotels are required to take particular care in preventing injuries to the public. Failing to take reasonable precautions to prevent an accident, such as removing liquid from floors or failing to warn of dangers, may render a property owner liable for damages to an injured person.
If liability is found, damages from a slip and fall accident may include past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It is important to note that injury claims related to slip and fall accidents are subject to various Statutes Of Limitations which limit the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit.
If you or someone close to you has been injured in a slip and fall accident, call The Scranton Law Firm today for a free consultation with one of our experienced California accident attorneys. The Scranton Law Firm has been representing injured people for over 30 years – call us today and find out how we can help you too.
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