San Diego Slip-and-Fall Lawyer

When a person falls due to hazardous conditions on someone else’s property, this is commonly referred to as a slip-and-fall incident. These incidents are often caused by wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or cluttered walkways. Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions and address potential hazards. If they fail to do so and someone is injured as a result of their negligence, the injured victim has legal rights to recovery.

Slip-and-fall accidents are a leading cause of injury in the United States. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, falls account for over 8 million hospital emergency room visits every year. That is over 20% of all emergency room visits. Specifically, slips and falls makeup over 1 million of these visits.

Slip-and-fall accidents not only can lead to significant physical injury, but also emotional and financial strain for victims and their families. Injuries from slip-and-fall accidents can range from minor bruises to severe, life-altering injuries and, in some cases, may even result in death.

If you or someone close to you has been affected by a slip-and-fall accident, it’s important to know that you don’t have to face the California legal system alone. Conger Law is here to provide expert consultation for individuals and families dealing in the aftermath of a slip-and-fall incident. Navigating a slip-and-fall case can be daunting, but our team is dedicated to offering the support and guidance needed during this challenging time.

What to Do After Experiencing a Slip-and-Fall

If you or a loved one has suffered from a slip-and-fall incident in San Diego, it’s crucial to follow specific steps to ensure your rights are protected and you can effectively seek compensation.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Injuries from a slip-and-fall, regardless of their initial appearance, may require immediate medical attention. Sometimes, injuries that seem minor, turn out to be serious. This is especially true for elderly victims, or victims with prior disabilities. Examples of such injuries include:

Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

When a person hits their head on a hard surface or edge, it may take hours or days for cognitive symptoms to present. A minor bruise on the head could be a concussion or a serious brain injury.

Spinal Cord Injuries

What starts as back pain might be indicative of a more serious spine injury.  Spine injuries can potentially lead to chronic pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis.

Internal Bleeding

Bruising or mild abdominal pain might be a sign of internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and treated.

Fractures

Hairline fractures or small bone breaks may not cause immediate, intense pain but can worsen without proper medical intervention, leading to complications in healing and mobility.

Document Everything

It’s vital to document every aspect of the incident following a slip-and-fall. Note the exact circumstances under which the fall occurred, including the location, conditions that contributed to the fall (such as wet floors or uneven surfaces), and any visible hazards. If possible, take photos and gather information about the property owner and any witnesses present. Photographs of your injuries, photographs of the incident, and photographs of any relevant disrepair or deterioration of the property can be powerful evidence for your case.

Preserve Medical Records

Maintain comprehensive records of all medical treatment following a slip-and-fall. This documentation should include details of emergency services, any follow-up visits, prescribed medications, and communications with healthcare professionals regarding your injury. These medical records are pivotal in illustrating both the severity of your injuries and the consequent financial impact.

Report the Incident

Ensure the slip-and-fall incident is reported to the relevant authorities or the management of the premises where the accident occurred. Reporting is important to protect other individuals from getting injured and also so that there is a record of documentation for your legal case.

Following these steps diligently after a slip-and-fall accident can significantly help protect your rights and strengthen your claim for compensation.

Contact a Slip-and-Fall Injury Lawyer

Legal matters arising from slip-and-fall incidents require a nuanced understanding and strategic approach. If you believe your slip-and-fall accident was the result of negligence, securing legal counsel promptly is essential.

An attorney with expertise in slip-and-fall injuries can comprehensively assess your case and advocate for you. For specialized advice and representation in San Diego, consider consulting with Conger Law Injury Attorneys.

Citations

NFSI Slip & Fall Quick Facts
https://nfsi.org/nfsi-research/quick-facts/