What you need to know about Slip, Trip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall liability is defined as a failure of the owner or operator of a property – the building and the land on which it sits – to protect visitors against injury due to negligently maintained premises and dangerous conditions on property. Visitors can be anyone including apartment tenants and guests, customers or vendors. Municipalities are subject to the law as well, which covers all public sidewalks, parks, parking facilities and government-owned buildings.
How to act before calling a Slip, Trip and Fall Accident Lawyer
1. Record details of your injury – Write down everything you can observe about the conditions of the premises at the time of your accident. Take measurements and check functioning mechanisms such as stair steps and other features related to the injury.
2. Photograph the premises – Include your approach to the exact accident or injury site, to indicate blind spots or hazards (if any).
3. Save clothing worn at the time – Shoes in particular, but all items of clothing may bear evidence (e.g., traces of an oil slick left on your shoes). Shoe traction may also be a consideration in a court of law.
The following scenarios are subject to premises liability litigation:
Cracked sidewalks
Broken steps
Merchandise littered store aisles
Unmarked changes in elevation
Poorly lit passageways
Slippery surfaces due to leaks, spills or worn surfaces
Tree roots above ground in walking areas
Uneven floor surfaces
