Suddenly, you step in a puddle of tomato sauce, lose your balance and fall to the floor. You sustain a serious neck and spinal cord injury, causing you to be paralyzed for a month. You are unable to work. You lose wages. You have an array of medical expenses. You experience much pain and suffering.
Unfortunately, you have experienced a slip and fall accident. What should you do now? Contact an experienced Florida slip and fall accident attorney to file a successful claim and receive the financial compensation you deserve. Our experienced lawyers at the Law Offices of Brent C. Miller, P.A. can help you every step of the way.
Slip and fall accidents are becoming increasingly common
Many sources indicate that slip and fall accidents make up roughly half of all premises liability claims. In other words, slip and fall accidents are extremely common. Many innocent people have been injured (or worse) due to unsafe and dangerous conditions that influence slip and fall accidents.
Not only does this mean that many people are suffering due to property negligence, but it means that many property owners and professionals are not adhering to basic safety protocols. When this happens, we will do everything we can to hold them accountable for their actions or lack of action.
Causes of slip and fall accidents
Slip and fall accidents are caused because of hazardous environments. Below are the most common factors that contribute to slip and fall accidents:
Common slip and fall injuries
Slip and fall injuries vary. While some may be minor, others may be severe. Young children and the elderly have a higher likelihood of experiencing severe damages. Below are the most common injuries that result from slip and fall accidents:
- Neck and spinal cord injuries
- Severe scarring, bleeding or bruising
- Muscle and knee injuries
- Broken/fractured bones
If you have experienced an injury due to a slip and fall accident, you should contact an experienced slip and fall attorney to file a successful claim and receive compensation for your general pain and suffering, lost wages and medical expenses.
Determining liability in "slip and fall" cases
Slip and fall settlements are not easily delivered. Many times, thorough research and investigation by an experienced slip and fall lawyer is necessary to prove that there is someone that is responsible for the slip and fall accident. Because many people act "reasonably", that is, acting in a cautious and common-sense manner, many slip and fall claims are unsuccessful. While people should exercise a general sense of care when on the property of others, property possessors and corporations are responsible for slip and fall accidents if they:
- Knowingly disregarded or failed to correct a hazard, defective product or spill
- Failed to thoroughly inspect the property for unsafe conditions
- Failed to properly label and warn property guests and/or consumers of spills, hazards, wet floors, etc.
- Failed to follow basic safety protocols
What to do after a slip and fall accident
If you have experienced a slip and fall accident, the first thing that you should do is remain calm. It is frightening to experience a fall, but you may overwhelm yourself if you overreact. You should seek medical attention to gain a diagnosis and the necessary steps to heal and recover.
Then, you should report the incident with local authorities and/or with the company. Gather and exchange contact information (including witnesses).
Next, collect and retain as much evidence as possible. Take photos of the place in which you fell and take photos of your injuries. Preserve your clothing in a plastic bag. You should also keep records of your medical visits and any time that you may have to spend away from work.
Finally, you should contact a slip and fall attorney for assistance with filing a claim.
Aggressive slip and fall accident lawyers in Central Florida
Our Central Florida slip and fall accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Brent C. Miller, P.A., have seen all sorts of slip and fall cases. We know what evidence to look for and what strategies work best when it comes to such complex cases. We will go above and beyond to prove liability and get you the benefits and compensation that you deserve. Put your trust in us. Contact our law firm and schedule your free case evaluation right now.