A slip-and-fall accident is a type of premises liability incident—meaning someone is injured on another person’s property due to a dangerous condition. These accidents can cause serious injuries, including broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
At Berg Injury Lawyers, our team of experienced Fresno slip-and-fall attorneys can help you recover the compensation you deserve. We have a proven track record of success in slip-and-fall cases and are committed to fighting for our clients’ rights.
Where Do Slip-and-Fall Accidents Happen?
Premises liability is a legal doctrine that holds property owners responsible for keeping their premises safe for visitors. This includes taking steps to prevent slip-and-fall accidents, such as repairing broken sidewalks, removing ice and snow, and warning visitors about potential hazards.
Here are some of the most common places where slip-and-fall injuries happen:
- Grocery Stores and Retail Shops: Grocery stores and retail spaces are common sites of slip-and-fall accidents due to spills, cluttered aisles, and wet floors.
- Restaurants: Restaurants can also be dangerous due to spills and wet floors.
- Sidewalks: Sidewalks can pose a risk due to cracks, uneven surfaces, and ice or snow.
- Stairs: Stairs can be hazardous if they have loose railings, uneven steps, or inadequate lighting.
- Parking Lots: Parking lots are another common site of slips and falls due to potholes, cracks, ice, and snow.
- Pool Areas: Swimming pools can pose a risk with slick surfaces and a lack of proper warning signs.
- Apartment Complexes and Private Residences: Apartment buildings or private homes can be hazardous due to slippery floors, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting.
Being aware of these common hazard zones can help you stay vigilant and reduce your risk of a slip-and-fall injury.
Common Slip-and-Fall Injuries
Unfortunately, slip-and-fall accidents can cause a variety of injuries, including:
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries such as sprains and bruises are common in slip-and-fall accidents.
- Broken Bones: Broken bones are also often sustained in slip-and-fall accidents, occurring most frequently in the arms, legs, and hips.
- Head Injuries: Head injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries resulting in long-term physical and cognitive impairment.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries can cause paralysis, loss of sensation, and other serious problems.
Get medical attention immediately if you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident. Even if you’re not in a great deal of pain, these types of injuries often worsen if left untreated. Getting medical treatment can also create valuable evidence for your case if you file a slip-and-fall injury claim.
What to Do After a Slip-and-Fall Accident
In addition to seeking immediate medical attention if you slip and fall on someone else’s property, follow these steps to protect your well-being and rights:
- Report the accident to the property owner or manager as soon as possible. Obtain a copy of that report or save a copy of that communication.
- Take photos of the accident scene.
- Get contact information from any witnesses.
- Keep copies of any medical expenses and records related to your injuries.
- Contact an experienced Fresno slip-and-fall attorney to discuss your legal options.
A Fresno slip-and-fall lawyer can:
- Investigate your accident to determine the cause and identify the liable parties.
- Gather evidence to support your claim, including medical records, witness statements, and photographs of the accident scene.
- Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to try to reach a fair settlement.
- If a fair settlement cannot be reached, prepare to take your case to court.
Contact Berg Injury Lawyers to Get Compensation
If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The amount of compensation you’re entitled to will depend on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of your accident. An experienced Fresno slip-and-fall attorney from Berg Injury Lawyers can help you determine the value of your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.