St. Petersburg Slip And Fall Injury Attorneys
Slip, trips and falls often lead to serious injuries, lifelong consequences, and serious financial stress. Let us help.
Summary
- Slips and falls are a serious public health issue. Millions of people experience falls each year, resulting in significant injuries and even fatalities.
- Common slip and fall injuries include fractures, sprains, head injuries, and back and hip injuries.
- Common causes of slip and falls include wet or slippery surfaces, uneven flooring, poor lighting, weather-related hazards, and unsafe footwear.
- Proving a slip and fall case often involves demonstrating four key elements: duty of care, breach of duty, causation, and damages.
- Potential compensation for slip and fall injuries may include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and compensation for permanent disability.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a slip and fall, it’s important to realize that it happens more often than you’d think, but what you do afterward is crucial. Seeking medical attention for slip and fall injuries is obvious, but there are other ways to protect your claim.
Reporting the fall, collecting all relevant documents, and contacting an experienced St Petersburg slip and fall attorney like the team of professionals at Jones Law Group are also important to establishing a case.
Schedule a free consultation today to see how Jones Law Group can help you win the compensation you qualify for. Call (727) 571-1333 or submit a contact form to schedule your free consultation with a capable Florida personal injury lawyer.
How Common are Slip and Falls, and are They Really That Dangerous?
Slips and falls are spontaneous, and may seem like something you could brush off and recover quickly from. However, falls can result in grievous consequences.
The World Health Organization reports that 37.3 million falls occur annually that are severe enough to warrant medical attention. The WHO fact sheet on falls also says that each year 646,000 people die globally from injuries sustained in falls.
Common Injuries from a Slip and Fall
Slip and fall accidents are more common than many realize, often occurring in both public spaces and private homes. These incidents can lead to a range of injuries, from minor bruises to severe fractures and head trauma.
This highlights the importance of being vigilant about our surroundings. Understanding the potential risks and taking preventive measures is crucial to minimizing these incidents and ensuring safety for everyone.
Fractures and Sprains
In a slip and fall accident, individuals are vulnerable to broken bones and fractures. Reaching out to stop your fall with your hands can lead to broken arms and wrists. Also, some trips will cause broken ankles and legs.
In addition, there is a tendency to fall on the shoulder to absorb impact, but that can result in dislocation of the shoulder and even injury to the nerves that connect the spine to the arm and hand.
Head Injuries
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when the head is subject to blunt force trauma, and is a major cause of death and disability in the United States. Falls are one of the most common causes of TBI.
In fact, they account for 48% of all TBI related emergency room visits in 2014 according to CDC data on brain injuries. That has remained true for the last decade.
Back and Hip Injuries
Disc herniation, spinal fractures, and nerve damage are all possible injuries from a slip and fall. These are conditions that can cause immense pain and a lifetime of complications.
Hip fractures are also common in slips and falls, and can be especially detrimental to older adults because the long recovery period causes weakness through muscle loss due to being bedridden.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Understanding the reasons behind slip and fall accidents can help prevent potential injuries and improve safety in everyday environments. By addressing common hazards, you can create a safer space for everyone.
Wet or Slippery Surfaces
One of the leading causes of slip and fall incidents is wet or slippery floors. Spills, water from cleaning, or even tracked-in rain can create a surface where it’s easy to lose footing. Regular maintenance and proper signage can reduce these risks.
Uneven Flooring
Broken tiles, loose floorboards, and significant changes in elevation can trip up even the most cautious individuals, especially on unsafe staircases. These hazards are often found in older buildings or neglected areas, making routine inspections essential to eliminate potential dangers.
Poor Lighting
Dim or inadequate lighting makes it hard to see obstacles in your path. Staircases, parking lots, and hallways are particularly prone to this problem, as poor visibility can cause someone to miss a step or fail to notice a hazard.
Weather-Related Hazards
Outdoor conditions like ice, snow, and fallen leaves often create slippery paths. These issues are more common in colder climates or during seasonal changes. Prompt removal and treatment of these areas can help prevent accidents.
Unsafe Footwear
The shoes we wear play a big role in our stability. High heels, loose sandals, or shoes without sufficient grip increase the chance of a slip, especially on smooth or damp surfaces. Wearing appropriate footwear designed for the environment can greatly reduce this risk.
Proving a Slip and Fall Case and Determining Liability
Slip and fall incidents can lead to unexpected injuries, resulting in both physical and financial hardships. Understanding the legal framework for establishing negligence is crucial in these cases, as it directly affects the outcome of claims.
To win a slip and fall case you need to prove liability, negligence, and responsibility. This section examines the critical elements of negligence and highlights how a skilled St. Petersburg, Florida slip and fall accident lawyer can assist in demonstrating that the other party is liable.
Duty of Care to the Injured Party
The first element in proving negligence is establishing that the property owner owed a duty of care to the injured party. This obligation requires the property owner to maintain a reasonably safe environment for visitors and communicate issues effectively to mitigate harmful outcomes.
A slip and fall lawyer can help compile evidence showing that the owner was responsible for ensuring safety measures on the premises.
Breach of Duty by the Property Owner
Once the duty of care is established, the next step in a slip and fall case is demonstrating a breach of this duty. This occurs when the property owner fails to take appropriate action to rectify or warn against known hazards.
The conditions surrounding the slip and fall must have been known by the proprietor of the establishment where the fall happened. A Florida personal injury lawyer can investigate this, gathering evidence such as maintenance logs or witness testimony to show that the owner neglected their responsibility.
Causation of Slip and Fall Injuries
Causation requires proving that the breach of duty directly caused the slip and fall injury. This can be complex, as it involves linking the hazardous condition to the actual harm suffered to show the slip and fall injuries were obtained within the confines of the incident.
A Jones Law Group slip and fall attorney can work with medical experts and accident reconstruction specialists to establish a clear connection between the negligence and the resulting injuries. Negligence will be decided if the conditions that caused the injury could have been remedied or were not clearly identified.
Damages Related to the Slip and Fall Accident
Finally, it is necessary to demonstrate that the injured party suffered actual damages due to the fall. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Experienced Florida slip and fall lawyers can help quantify these damages. Additionally, they can present a compelling case for compensation based on documented evidence of the impact the injury has had on the victim’s life.
Slip and Fall Accidents That Occur at the Workplace
Slips and falls are not limited to any particular industry, they occur in the workforce everywhere. According to NSC data on slip and falls, in 2016, 48,060 people fell in the workplace and were injured badly enough that they needed time off from work. The same year, 831 people died from lower and same level falls.
If you slip and fall at work, you may have the opportunity to pursue a workers’ compensation claim for your injuries through your employer. If your employer doesn’t offer workers’ compensation, you may be able to recover damages through a personal injury lawsuit.
What Can I Be Compensated for After Suffering a Slip and Fall Injury?
After experiencing a slip and fall injury in St. Petersburg, Florida, understanding the potential compensation available is crucial for recovery. Victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation.
This can include medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress, which can significantly aid in rebuilding their lives. Processing these claims with the assistance of legal professionals ensures that you fully comprehend your rights and receive the maximum support you deserve.
Medical Bills
If your fall was caused because of negligence, then you may be able to receive compensation for any medical bills that you incurred because of the slip and fall accident.
It’s important to keep a record of any bills you paid in relation to your accident. This can include bills for hospital visits, surgery costs, doctors visits, physical therapy, and any prescription costs.
Lost Wages
Due to the serious nature of slip and fall injuries, many people need time off from work to recover. You may be able to successfully recover lost wages, as well as wages that you miss in the future because of your injury.
Also, if your fall injury diminishes your capacity or impairs your ability to continue working, you may be entitled to additional compensation. That depends largely on the degree of impairment and the amount of time you stand to lose to recovery.
Pain and Suffering
Chronic pain and disability from slips and falls are not uncommon, especially when injuries are severe. For example, traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries are both common types of injuries in slip and fall accidents.
Both can cause disability or paralysis. Because of this, you may be able to recover damages for pain and suffering. The jury calculates this number based on your injuries and the case your attorney makes for you in court.
Permanent Loss and Disability
If you’re permanently disabled because of your slip and fall accident, you may never be able to work again. You’ll be able to collect damages for loss of future wages as well as for loss of earning capacity, if you can no longer perform your job (or any job).
While many can receive these damages, your St. Petersburg FL slip and fall attorney may also direct you to the Social Security Disability Insurance program. That way, you can further receive income throughout your life.
How the Slip and Fall Lawyers of Jones Law Group Can Assist You
Facing life after a slip and fall accident can be overwhelming. However, you don’t have to handle it alone. The experienced St. Petersburg personal injury attorneys at Jones Law Group are here to guide you through the process.
With a deep understanding of Florida’s legal landscape, our slip and fall lawyers can help recover the compensation you deserve.
- Comprehensive Case Evaluation: Our team will thoroughly assess your case to identify the strengths and potential challenges. We’ll work tirelessly to establish a clear path forward.
- Evidence Gathering: Our skilled personal injury attorneys will collect and preserve crucial evidence. This can include photographs, witness statements, and medical records, to build a solid case.
- Expert Negotiation: Leveraging our negotiation expertise, Jones Law Group slip and fall lawyers will engage with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement on your behalf.
- Litigation Support: If necessary, our St. Petersburg slip and fall injury lawyers are prepared to take your case to court. Then, we will advocate fiercely for your rights and interests.
- Personalized Legal Strategy: Tailoring our approach to your unique circumstances, your legal team will develop a strategy that aligns with your needs and goals.
- Ongoing Communication: Throughout the entire process, you will receive regular updates and clear explanations. We will keep you informed and empowered every step of the way.
By choosing Jones Law Group, you gain a dedicated partner. We are unapologetically committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your Florida slip and fall injury claim.
Contact an Experienced St. Petersburg Slip and Fall Attorney Today
At Jones Law Group, we understand that it can be disorienting trying to navigate legal issues after being injured in a slip and fall. Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to help you with your slip and fall claim.
Contact an experienced St. Petersburg slip and fall attorney today to set up a free consultation. See for yourself how our incredible team can best represent you.
Reach out by calling (727) 571-1333, filling out our online contact form, or by using our Chat feature below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after a slip and fall accident?
Following a slip and fall incident, it’s crucial to take immediate steps. First and foremost, seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not manifest immediately.
Secondly, document the slip and fall accident thoroughly. Take photographs and videos of the accident scene, including the area where you fell, any hazards that may have caused the fall, and any visible injuries.
Also, be sure to gather information from any witnesses who may have observed the slip and fall accident. Notify the property owner or manager about the incident as soon as possible.
Keep a detailed record of your injuries, medical treatments, and any limitations caused by the fall. Finally contact a Florida slip and fall lawyer near you.
How much time do I have to file a slip and fall claim in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including slip and fall accidents, is generally two years. This means you have a two-year window from the date of the accident to initiate legal proceedings.
Why is it important to hire a Florida slip and fall lawyer?
Engaging a Florida Slip and Fall Lawyer offers several significant advantages. Firstly, they possess in-depth expertise in Florida law pertaining to slip and fall cases, enabling them to navigate the legal complexities effectively.
Secondly, skilled attorneys are adept negotiators who can advocate for a fair settlement with the insurance company on your behalf. Additionally, if a settlement cannot be reached amicably, your attorney can represent you in court.
Lastly, hiring an attorney provides peace of mind knowing that your case is in the capable hands of experienced professionals.
