Each year, more than 1,000,000 people in the U.S. are involved in a slip and fall accident. Slip and fall cases are generally centered on premises liability claims, and are the third largest cause of injuries in the workplace
Slip and fall incidents can be attributed to a number of different hazards. Some of the most common of these dangerous conditions are sudden changes in the heights of surfaces, slick surfaces, an uneven rise of steps, inadequate lighting, and icy or wet conditions.
In general, liability in a slip and fall case rests in the occupier of the property where the unsafe condition exists. This does not necessarily limit responsibility to the owner, but can also hold tenants, those in control of the property, and those controlling activities taking place on the grounds liable as well. Those in control of a property have a duty of care to all those invited onto their property, and are responsible for any reasonably foreseeable dangers.
In order to reduce the chances of an injury, or a slip and fall lawsuit, certain steps should be taken by any property owner. This includes a proper inspection plan and maintenance system, as well as a means of warning the public of hazards.
If a slip and fall injury does occur, there are a variety of forms of compensation which may be available. This includes compensation for pain and suffering, loss of income, reimbursement of medical expenses, loss of life’s enjoyment, and any other resultant out of pocket expenses.
Expert witnesses and scientific analyses sometimes play a large role in slip and fall claims.