Slip and fall accidents are one of the most common causes of accidental injury in the United States. While the large majority of slips, trips, or falls result in little more than a bruise or fleeting embarrassment, they also have the capability of causing extremely serious injuries. In fact, the National Safety Council indicates1 that slip and fall accidents are responsible for nearly nine million emergency department visits each year. In cases when these accidents are caused by someone else’s negligence, injured parties can often recover for both their economic and noneconomic losses. An experienced attorney can help ensure that slip and fall accident victims receive the compensation to which they are legally entitled.
Slip and fall accidents can be caused by a variety of conditions
Slip and fall accident claims are a type of legal claim based on premises liability2 law, which is the area of law that operates to hold negligent property owners liable for injuries that people sustain on their property. Importantly, not all slip and fall accidents result in a valid legal claim. In order to recover, a victim must be able to establish that the accident was the result of the property owner’s failure to protect him or her from a dangerous condition on the land. Some of the more common kinds of conditions that can lead to serious slip and fall accident cases include the following:
- Liquid spills
- Cracked floors
- Accumulations of snow or ice
- Inadequate lighting
- Torn carpet
- Debris in walkways
- Uneven stairs
- Slippery floors
- Exposed electrical cords
- Loose floorboards
- Recently waxed floors
- Cracks in pavement
- Potholes
- Lack of adequate handrails
Victims should preserve evidence regarding their accident
After a slip and fall accident, people who are injured should take steps to ensure that they preserve evidence regarding the way that their accident occurred. If possible, take photographs of the condition that caused your accident and obtain contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident take place. Of course, seek medical attention immediately if you are seriously injured or in significant pain. Even if you do not believe that you are seriously injured, you should undergo a thorough medical evaluation conducted by a medical professional after any type of accident occurs. Not only will doing so ensure that your injuries are properly identified and treated, it will also result in the generation of an official medical record establishing the cause, nature, and extent of your injuries.
Contact a Michigan slip and fall attorney today to schedule a free case evaluation
Slip and fall accidents often lead to serious injuries and substantial medical expenses. In addition, people who are by slips, trips, or falls often lose a significant amount of income from not being able to work and experience tremendous physical and emotional pain and suffering. Thankfully for victims, Michigan tort law often entitles victims of preventable accidents to compensation for these and other losses they may experience. To schedule a free consultation with one of our Michigan slip and fall lawyers, call Michigan Injury Lawyers today at (888) 454-0801.
References:
1 http://www.nsc.org/NSCDocuments_Advocacy/Fact%20Sheets/Slips-Trips-and-Falls.pdf
2 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Premises_liability
Thomas L. Stroble
FOUNDER
Mr. Stroble is a highly accomplished graduate of Michigan State University, with degrees in both science and law. He specializes in commercial lawsuits and personal injury cases. Licensed to practice law in Michigan and even the U.S. Supreme Court, he’s a well-qualified legal expert. Besides his career in law, he loves outdoor activities and volunteers as a part-time police officer in Birmingham.
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