How Serious Are Slip and Fall Accidents?

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Slip and Fall Accidents

It is easy to mistake footing and trip, but what happens if a slip and fall is caused by property owners’ negligence? Property owners have a responsibility to keep their home or business safe for other invited occupants. A slip and fall may not sound like a big deal, but they can leave permanent damage, or even death, to a victim. If trauma is caused to an individual because of negligence, they may be eligible for compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages.

What Is Negligence?

In regards to property, negligence is knowing about or ignoring an issue, that caused a person to get hurt. Property owners, both private and businesses, are expected to keep reasonable maintenance of a property for the safety of invited parties. A personal injury case relies on the plaintiff being able to prove negligence. For example, if a person slips in a grocery store and sustains a head injury, they may have a case for negligence if there was no wet floor warning. Who is allowed on the property is also a contributing factor in whether someone can call negligence. If someone trespasses in an abandoned barn and the floor collapses, and the trespasser obtains a head injury, the property owner would not likely be held liable because the injured person was breaking the law.

It is not always possible to bounce back up after a slip and fall. Falls account for over 8 million hospital visits a year according to the National Floor Safety Institute. Slip and falls specifically make up 12% of that annual numbers which is approximately one million hospital visits.

Head injuries, soft tissue damage, and broken bones are some of the most common serious injuries that can result after a slip and fall. A cut or broken bone is easier to detect, so if a person hit their head after a fall, they should seek immediate medical assistance. Especially if the victim loses consciousness, is confused, or vomits. A minor concussion will heal itself, but it is best to make sure a head injury is not more serious. Traumatic brain injuries can have lasting effects that can affect a person’s ability to work or their quality of life.

Contact an Illinois Slip and Fall Attorney

A serious injury in any instance is stressful, but when a slip and fall could have been prevented, a victim deserves fair compensation. If you are suffering due to a property owner’s negligence, contact an experienced Orland Park slip and fall attorney to discuss your options for a personal injury case. Set up a free consultation by calling our office at 708-966-2408.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html

https://nfsi.org/nfsi-research/quick-facts/