What if I Am Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident in New York?

A person usually does not think twice about walking up or down stairs or crossing a hallway. However, one obstacle on those surfaces can land someone in the ER, and in some cases, it can result in permanent damage. When someone hears the phrase “slip and fall,” he or she may not think that type of accident would cause significant injuries. However, the damages a person may suffer in these cases can be severe and have lifelong consequences. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), injuries suffered in slip and fall accidents lead to approximately 9 million hospital visits each year, and they are one of the leading causes of unintentional death in the United States. If a property owner does not take care of his or her premises, he or she may be found liable if his or her negligence caused another party’s injuries.

Common Injuries from Slipping and Falling

Injuries from a slip and fall accident can affect many parts of the body. For instance, an individual can hurt his or her head, arm, leg, or foot. Depending on the severity of these injuries and the victim’s age and health, they can require surgery and/or physical therapy. A traumatic brain injury may heal with proper rest, but it could also cause ongoing seizures, cognitive impairment, personality changes, or other debilitating conditions. Spinal cord damage can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis or neurological impairments. A person who is hurt may be unable to work and therefore lose his or her income, putting a significant strain on his or her financial situation.

Steps That Should Be Taken to Avoid Slip and Fall Injuries

There are certain safety precautions that can help prevent someone from slipping and falling. For example, simply cleaning up after a spill, whether it be liquid or another substance, will reduce the likelihood of a person slipping on a floor. Maintaining traffic areas free and clear of garbage or items that a person could trip over would also help eliminate slips and falls. Here are some basic actions a property owner should take to protect the safety of those who use their property:

• Clean up spills immediately.
• Keep walkways clear of clutter, debris, and obstacles.
• Keep desk and cabinet drawers closed when not in use.
• Cover cords or cables in walkways.
• Replace light bulbs promptly once they burn out.
• Install textured floor mats.
• Replace old or worn-out flooring.

Contact a Brooklyn Personal Injury Attorney

A slip and fall accident may seem minor at first, but the resulting injuries can have lasting effects. If you or a loved one is hurt on someone else’s property, he or she may be held accountable for your damages. One of our experienced New York City slip and fall accident lawyers will carefully review the circumstances of your case to determine whether negligence occurred and help you understand your options for pursuing a premises liability lawsuit. To schedule a free consultation, call 718-514-9516 today.

Sources: 

https://www.nsc.org/work-safety/safety-topics/slips-trips-falls
https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/14029-preventing-slips-trips-and-falls