Accidents happen every day, and the outcome for some can be more unfortunate for others. A slip and fall accident can usually result in several injuries, which means you can be entitled to financial reimbursement for your damages.

Typically, businesses are held liable if proper warnings and safety measures were not taken to prevent slip and fall accidents. Connect with an accident lawyer to discuss your slip and fall accident and whether a legal case can be made from it.

For now, continue reading this legal crash course on a slip and fall situation.

The Causes Behind a Slip and Fall Accident

Many slip and fall accidents can take place when a person is in a public place, such as a grocery store, restaurant, retail space, or office building. These accidents occur because the premises are not properly maintained or when there are hidden dangers that are not evident to a person. Some common and certain causes of a slip and fall accident include:

• Excessive water, grease, or oil on a floor or aisleway
• Unbalanced objects placed on a bed or aisleway
• Irregular floor surfaces that cause tripping
• Improper lighting and dangerous areas in a building
• Improperly secured items that are placed near walkways
• Inadequate security measures
• Inadequate warnings or signage

The Sudden Occurrence of a Slip and Fall Accident

A slip and fall accident can happen to anyone unfortunate enough to slip on an uneven area on a floor. A slip and fall accident is also possible if a person steps in a puddle of water or a spilled substance or if a person's feet are tripped by an object that was not secured properly.

An individual who suspects they may have been injured in a slip and fall accident should have their medical condition assessed by a doctor or medical professional. This individual should make sure to take pictures of the suspected accident site, as it appears right after the event, for future litigation purposes.

The Injuries Within a Slip and Fall Accident

Slip and fall accidents can result in personal injuries, which can vary depending on the severity of the accident. These injuries can affect a person's back, neck, head, and more. Some may experience sprains and strains at most from a slip and fall accident, along with the emotional trauma that comes from the situation.

However, there can also be more severe outcomes from a slip and fall accident, such as broken bones and teeth. Disfigurement, lacerations, and cuts can also come from certain slip and fall accidents, which does entail several medical expenses for the treatment and recovery of the person involved.

The Liability in a Slip and Fall Accident

The liability in a slip and fall accident is usually the business entity that owns the premises that the accident happened on. As mentioned, a slip and fall accident can be caused by many factors, such as grease, water, or oil on the floor. Accidents can also be caused by an object that was left on the floor or lighting that is not adequate.

This is because a slip and fall accident is considered to be negligence and the fault of the business owner. Compensation is possible if the person can prove that the business or owner of the property where the accident occurred was negligent or was aware that the area where the accident occurred was hazardous.

The Proof of a Slip and Fall Accident

An individual who wishes to recover compensation for the injury will have to prove that the damage was due to the negligence of another, whether it is the property owner or another individual. There are several ways to obtain acceptable legal proof.

As mentioned above, it is important for the injured individual to take pictures of the accident scene and the injuries sustained from the accident. A slip and fall accident can also be reported to the police for official documentation.

Another significant step to take is to have a medical examination after the accident. An official medical review is important because it will make the investigation of the accident easier, as the lawyer can use the medical details to build the case.

The Counterproof in a Slip and Fall Accident

The business entity or property owner will almost always provide counterproof that the accident took place due to the negligence of the injured individual. The counterproof is usually a claim that the injured party was not paying attention.

Aside from that, the other party may argue that the injured were under the influence of alcohol or drugs, putting them at fault for the slip and fall. Another is that the person was not following the rules that were placed on the premises. 

The legal system can declare the case in favor of the business or property owner if the counterproof is effective. Essentially being put in a place of negligence can negate the issue. Seek the help of an experienced accident lawyer to challenge those defenses.

The Claims Made in a Slip and Fall Accident

In a slip and fall accident case, several legal claims can be made. These claims can provide valuable compensation to the injured party in order to cover the damages and expenses incurred throughout the accident.

If an injured party was successful in proving that the other party was negligent, this individual used the compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Some people may also seek counseling for whatever emotional pain, suffering, and trauma were experienced.

Compensation can also include payment for special, unique injuries. Special injuries can be anything that was incurred during a slip and fall accident that was not directly related to the accident, potentially aggravated by the slip and fall accident.

Conclusion

A slip and fall accident can happen to anyone. And while accidents do take place, the person who is injured may be entitled to financial reimbursement. Seek the assistance of an experienced accident lawyer to further explain your legal situation.

Looking for accident lawyers in Los Angeles? Mendez and Sanchez Law attorneys and team members are here to help you through the difficult legal landscape as we pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us for your Slip and Fall case and other legal needs today!