What Are Types of Slip and Fall Accidents That Occur at Businesses?
Slip and fall accidents are one of the most common causes of serious and sometimes fatal injuries in Georgia and across the country. Yet, these accidents are preventable if the appropriate steps are taken to address potential hazards. While slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, they are particularly common in the workplace. All business owners have a responsibility to provide a safe work environment for employees and consumers alike. If you or someone you know is injured in a slip and fall accident in the workplace or on business property, do not hesitate to contact an experienced slip and fall lawyer at your earliest convenience.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents?
In any situation where floors, sidewalks, parking lots, or other surfaces are slippery, cluttered, poorly lit, or present other potential hazards, there is an increased risk of a slip and fall accident. The following are examples of common causes of slip and fall accidents that can cause employees or customers to suffer serious injuries:
- Wet or Uneven Surfaces: This is one of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents. They include recently waxed or polished floors, spills that have not been cleaned up, unsalted or unplowed sidewalks and parking lots, loose rugs and mats, uneven flooring or pavement, and broken, worn, or bulging carpeting.
- Cluttered Work Areas: If there are tools, electrical cords, equipment, or other debris obstructing the walkways, it can create a tripping hazard. All walkways must be clean, organized, and free of debris or other tripping hazards.
- Poor Lighting: Poorly lit hallways, stairwells, corridors, and loading docks make it difficult for people to see where they are going, which creates a slip and fall hazard.
- Exposed Cables or Wires: If there are wires, cables, or electrical cords on the floor that are not properly secured, this is a tripping hazard.
What Are Examples of Slip and Fall Injuries?
A slip and fall accident can cause injuries ranging from minor cuts and scrapes to serious head injuries that result in permanent physical and cognitive impairments. The following are examples of common injuries caused by slip and fall accidents:
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue injuries, including injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments
- Sprained ankles or wrists
- Knee injuries
- Dislocated shoulders
- Spine and nerve damage
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Chronic pain
Who Is Liable for a Slip and Fall Accident?
Whoever owns or controls the property where you were injured in a slip and fall accident is liable for your injuries. This may include the landowner, property managers, contractors, and easement owners. An experienced slip and fall lawyer will identify all potentially liable parties and pursue the maximum financial compensation you deserve. In order to have a successful slip and fall claim, you will need to prove that negligence was involved. The following are the elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care: This means that the business owner has a legal responsibility to maintain a safe property and take the necessary steps to address any issues that could cause a safety hazard.
- Breach of Duty of Care: If the business owner fails to maintain a safe property, this is a breach of care.
- Injuries: You suffered injuries as a result of the breach in care.
- Damages: You suffered financial losses, as well as pain and suffering as a result of the injuries.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Slip and Fall Claim?
If you are injured in a slip and fall accident in Georgia, you must file a claim within two years of the date you were injured. If you file a claim after the deadline has passed, your claim will likely be denied, and you will be unable to recover any damages. However, there are certain circumstances where the filing deadline may be extended.
Savannah Slip and Fall Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Represent Victims of Slip and Fall Accidents
If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a slip and fall accident, it is highly recommended that you contact the Savannah slip and fall lawyers at Kicklighter Law as soon as possible. We will review the details of your case. To schedule a confidential consultation, call us today at 912-754-6003 or contact us online. Located in Springfield, Georgia, we serve clients in Effingham County, Savannah, and the surrounding areas.