Written by Maurice Davis
Slip and fall accidents are often seen as minor mishaps, but they can lead to serious injuries and long-term consequences.
In Michigan, especially during the icy winters, slip-and-fall accidents are common. They can be quite dangerous.
If you were hurt because of someone’s negligence, you could be owed compensation. Learn about the hidden dangers involved, and why pursuing a premises liability claim with the help of a lawyer is crucial.
Common Misconceptions About Slip & Fall Accidents
Many people think that slipping and falling is just a minor incident that everyone experiences at some point. However, this is far from the truth.
Slip-and-fall accidents can cause serious injuries that can have lasting impacts on a person’s health and quality of life.
It’s important to take these accidents seriously and understand that they can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens.
What Are The Hidden Dangers of Slip & Fall Accidents?
Slip-and-Falls Can Cause Severe Physical Injuries
One of the biggest hidden dangers of slip and fall accidents is the potential for severe physical injuries.
These can include fractures and broken bones, especially in the wrists, arms, and hips. Traumatic brain injuries can occur if the person hits their head during the fall.
Spinal cord injuries are also a possibility, leading to long-term mobility issues.
Soft tissue damage, such as torn ligaments and muscles, can cause chronic pain and limit a person’s ability to move freely.
Accidents Often Have Long-Term Health Complications
The injuries from a slip and fall accident can lead to long-term health complications.
For instance, a person might experience chronic pain that affects their daily activities and quality of life.
Reduced mobility can make it difficult to perform even simple tasks.
Ongoing medical treatments and rehabilitation may be necessary, adding to the physical and emotional burden.
Certain Age Groups Are More Vulnerable to Slip & Falls
Some age groups are more likely to have a serious slip and fall accident.
Elderly individuals are at a higher risk of severe injuries due to weaker bones and reduced balance.
Children can also suffer serious injuries from falls, which can affect their development.
People with pre-existing conditions may find that a fall exacerbates their health issues, leading to more severe outcomes.
What Are the Financial Consequences of Slip & Fall Accidents?
Slip and fall accidents can also have significant financial consequences.
Medical expenses can quickly add up, including costs for emergency care, surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing treatments.
If the injuries are severe, a person might not be able to work, resulting in lost wages and a diminished earning capacity.
Beyond the physical pain these accidents cause, the emotional and psychological impacts, such as stress and anxiety, can further affect a person’s ability to work and enjoy life.
How Does Negligence Affect Slip & Fall Claims?
Many slip and fall accidents happen due to hazardous environments.
Common causes include wet floors, icy sidewalks, uneven surfaces, and cluttered walkways.
Property owners have a responsibility to keep their premises safe for visitors. In Michigan, this means taking reasonable steps to remove snow and ice within a reasonable time after it accumulates.
Proving negligence is essential in a premises liability claim. This involves showing that the property owner failed to maintain a safe environment, leading to the accident and injuries.
What Are the Elements of Negligence in Slip & Fall Cases?
There are generally four elements to prove negligence in slip and fall claims. You must show that the landlord owed had a duty of care to protect everyone’s wellbeing.
You must show that they breached that duty by not correcting a hazard on their property. You must have been injured because of that breach.
Finally, you have to show that your damages are connected to the injury caused by the hazard on the liable party’s property.
How Do I Pursue a Premises Liability Claim?
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your rights.
Seek Medical Attention & Document Your Injuries
First, document the scene and your injuries. Take photos of the area where you fell, noting any hazards that contributed to the accident.
Seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Medical records can provide important evidence in your claim.
Investigate Your Accident & Collect Evidence
Gathering evidence and witness statements is crucial. If there were people who saw the accident, get their contact information and ask them to describe what they saw.
Their statements can support your case and help prove that the property owner was negligent.
Call a Slip & Fall Lawyer in Detroit As Soon As Possible
A Detroit slip and fall lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and increase your chances of getting fair compensation.
A lawyer can help prove negligence by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting experts if needed. They can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If necessary, they can represent you in court to fight for your rights.
Call the Davis Injury Lawyers Today
Slip and fall accidents are more dangerous than many people realize. They can cause severe injuries, long-term health complications, and significant financial burdens.
Fighting for the compensation after a slip and fall can be challenging, especially when you’re focused on your recovery. That’s where Attorney Maurice Davis can help. The Davis Injury Lawyers know how complex these fights can be. That’s why we’re ready to help you.
Call our office at 313-462-7979 or fill out our online form to get started with your consultation.