Everyone knows that slippage is a common occurrence in the workplace. The dangers of slip and fall accidents have been well documented. In an era of social media, we can see how easily these types of accidents can be spread around.
Fortunately, there are ways to keep yourself safe while you’re on the job. Before you begin your search for the right slip and fall attorney, however, it is important to understand why you may need legal assistance in this area.
If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of someone else’s carelessness, make sure that you get legal representation from an attorney who specializes in slips and falls cases.
Likely, your current lawyer is not aware of all of the laws related to slip and fall cases or how to handle them successfully. An attorney who focuses on slip and fall cases can provide valuable insight into your rights and possible solutions for a lower cost than you would find from a general practice attorney.
What is a Slip and Fall Accident?
A slip and fall accident is usually caused by someone other than you, your co-workers or supervisors. However, slip and fall incidents can also happen outside of work. You might fall or trip and hurt yourself while out walking or shopping.
ickness, old age, injury or medical conditions can also cause you to slip and fall. A slip and fall incident is when a person’s fall or trip causes damage to property or injuries to others. The person who falls or trips is called the “sender” and the person who caused the incident is called “the taker.”
Slip and fall law does not always require an incident involving physical contact. In some cases, a person who trips or falls unintentionally can be held legally responsible for the taker’s actions or defects.
What Are the Different Types of Slip and Fall Accidents?
There are many different types of slip and fall accidents. Here are just a few of the most common:
Type 1: Heel Fall – This is the most common type of slip and fall accident and usually the easiest to identify. A person walks or lies on the edge of a platform or staircase and falls, causing damage to their foot or leg.
Type 2: Staircase Fall – This is often much more serious and is usually caused by someone else’s carelessness. A person walks or stands on the edge of a staircase and slips, causing them to fall.
Type 3: Rodent Trapping – This is more serious than stairwell or platform falls and results from someone else’s misdirection or creation of a path for a rodent to travel.
Type 4: falling into a hazard – This can happen to anyone, even those who are not carefree walkers. Someone may trip on low-lying objects, stairs, or objects that are not properly aligned with the ground.
Why Does Slippage Happen in the Workplace?
For many, the answer to this question can be found in the previous section. While you’re on the job, you may fall or trip on a colleague or make a mistake that causes damage to your equipment or other people. If this is the case, you may be able to claim that your employer was at fault for your fall or trip. Unfortunately, there are laws in place to make it harder for people to sue their employers.
These are called “fiduciary duties” and are meant to protect employees from having to deal with issues related to their employer’s safety.
A person who falls or trips on the job is considered “at-will” and can be fired at any time for any reason or for no reason at all. This means that a person can be dismissed for anything, including no reason at all.
The Right Slip and Fall Attorney Can Help
If you think you may have a slip and fall accident on your hands, it’s important to get a qualified legal opinion. A qualified slip and fall attorney can help you understand your legal rights and the possible outcomes if you choose to file a lawsuit.
Depending on your specific slip and fall problem, your attorney may be able to provide you with a free “legal guide” that can help you sort through the confusing law and understand your options.
How to Find the Right Slip and Fall Attorney
When you’re shopping for a slip and fall attorney, it’s important to remember that you’re looking for one who specializes in the area. Many general practice attorneys may be qualified to help with slip and fall cases, but they may not have the knowledge or experience to handle your particular situation.
To find a slip and fall attorney in your area, review the directory below and search for attorneys by location, business type, experience and other criteria. If you aren’t sure where to start, consider contacting your local chapter or association of your favourite sports team. These groups may be able to recommend a good slip and fall attorney.
Summing up
If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of someone else’s carelessness, make sure that you get legal representation from an attorney who specializes in slips and falls cases. Likely, your current lawyer is not aware of all of the laws related to slip and fall cases or how to handle them successfully. An attorney who focuses on slip and fall cases can provide valuable insight into your rights and possible solutions for a lower cost than you would find from a general practice attorney.
