For many years now I have represented people who have slipped and fallen at stores, nursing homes, parking lots, you name it. It is human nature to think, “oh, well it was my fault I didn’t see the crack” or “I should have been more careful” and then to just go on about one’s day without thinking about it again. That it, until one’s body starts hurting or bruising. Some of the time it could have been someone else’s negligence that caused your fall, don’t get me wrong, there are cases were we are at fault too.
How do I know if the slip and fall was my fault?
First of all, ask yourself a few questions
- Was there something on the floor that made it slippery? Or, was the concrete cracked or broken?
- Were there any signs warning me to be careful in that area?
- Did I fall just because I lost my footing?
If the answer to the last question was yes, then this is not a case.
However, if the store you were in at the time was negligent by not warning people that the floor was slippery or by not fixing the concrete area, you have a potential case. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, flooring materials and floors in general contribute to more than 2 million fall injuries a year.
What should I do if I slip and fall?
There are five key steps to follow after you or a loved one fall in someone else’s property.
- First off, DON’T ADMIT FAULT!
- Take pictures! Take pictures of the scene (like the crack, the liquid, or break) and of your injury (if applicable).
- Get witness information! Witnesses can be key in cases, get names and phone numbers.
- Get a report filed! It is important that a report is filed with the company and that you obtain a copy.
- Seek treatment! Even if you feel like you’re okay, a quick check up won’t hurt – go to Urgent Care!
Denying Gravity
This weekend I was reading through the Tampa Bay Times and an article talking about a new play focusing on the dangers of seniors falling came up. My first thought “wow.. this is great, it is very important for people to raise awareness to topics like this”.
According to the Tampa Bay Times, this play focused on an elderly woman, Claire, who lost her balance and tumbled to the ground. Claire’s life changed after the fall.
Although, it can be seen as a simple play, to me, it was the start of a chain reaction. I want you to know that some falls can cause more harm than others –especially to the elderly. I want you to know that something can be done. The play itself talk about preventing a fall, but if you can’t then seek help.
Contact Brooks Law Group
If you or a loved one fell because of someone else’s negligence, call Brooks Law Group today at 1-800-LAW-3030. Let the attorneys here help you seek compensation, we work on a contingent base meaning that you don’t owe us anything until your case is settled. If you aren’t sure if you have a case, we will be happy to review it – don’t let this be the reason you don’t seek help.
