Slip-and-fall accidents are common in Las Vegas and the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls among adults aged 65 and older led to over 36,000 deaths, making it the leading cause of injury death for this group. Additionally, these incidents resulted in 3 million emergency department visits. The financial impact of these falls is substantial, with an annual cost of $50 billion in medical expenses, most of which are covered by Medicare and Medicaid.
If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident due to the property owner’s negligence, it is essential to speak with a qualified Las Vegas slip-and-fall lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can assist you in filing a claim and seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
At Temple Injury Law, we understand how difficult slip-and-fall injuries are and have extensive knowledge of the laws surrounding these claims. We also understand that dealing with injuries can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. However, we are committed to providing you the guidance you need during this difficult time.
Common Injuries After a Slip and Fall Accident
Slip and fall accidents can lead to a variety of injuries.
- Concussions and head injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Broken or fractured limbs
- Severe sprains
- Lacerations, abrasions and contusions
There are many different things that you can be compensated for due to a slip and fall injury:
- Prescriptions and medical bills
- Loss of wages from missed work
- Future lost wages as a result of a long-term disability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Reduced ability to enjoy life
Common Types of Slips and Falls and Where They Occur
Slip and fall incidents are often divided into four categories:
- Slip and Fall: Occurs when you slip on the walking surface because of the presence of a substance.
- Trip and Fall: The most common cause is an object left on a walkway that causes a person to trip over it and fall.
- Stump and Fall: A surface obstruction or obstruction on a walkway usually causes this.
- Step and Fall: This usually occurs after someone trips over a defective surface or steps into a hidden hole.
Slips and falls are often caused by substances that cover walkways or uneven walkways. Slip and fall injuries can also be caused by damaged stairways, ramps, missing or poorly lit railings, and non-slip coverings. In addition, slip and fall injuries are often caused by slip and fall due to the failure of property owners to clear snow, ice, and other debris from walkways.
What To Do After a Slip and Fall Injury Occurred
After experiencing a slip and fall injury, knowing the steps to protect your health and legal rights is crucial. Such incidents can occur anywhere, from commercial properties to private homes, and the consequences can be physically and financially draining. Whether it’s a result of a wet floor, uneven pavement, or any other hazardous condition, knowing how to proceed can significantly impact the outcome of a potential claim for damages.
Here’s a guide on what to do after a slip and fall injury, incorporating the requested keywords:
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health is the top priority. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, getting a medical evaluation is essential. Some serious injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not be immediately apparent. Documenting your injuries through medical records is also crucial in a premises liability claim.
2. Report the Incident
Immediately notify the property owner, manager, or responsible party about the fall accident. If the slip and fall occurred in a business establishment, ensure an incident report is filed and request a copy for your records. The property owner must be made aware of the accident.
3. Document Everything
Collect as much evidence as you can. This includes taking photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any conditions contributing to the slip and fall, such as icy pavements, wet floors, or uneven surfaces. Gather the names and contact information of any witnesses. Your documentation can play a significant role in your slip and fall case.
4. Avoid Making Detailed Statements
Be cautious about what you say following the accident. Avoid admitting fault or making detailed statements to property owners, insurance companies, or their representatives. Your comments can be used against you in your premises liability claims.
5. Contact a Slip and Fall Attorney
Consult with a specialized attorney. Ideally, one experienced in handling fall accidents in your area. For instance, contacting Las Vegas slip and fall lawyer would be beneficial if the incident occurred in Nevada. A skilled lawyer can provide legal advice, help you understand your rights, and guide you through filing a slip-and-fall case.
What is Contributory Negligence, and how can it be prevented?
Slip-and-fall cases often involve a failure to protect consumers. Risks are inherent in how the establishment operates, including policies disregarding safety. For example, a bar without a clear policy for cleaning up spilled drinks could be considered negligent. Slipping and falling can easily result from spilled drinks left on the ground at a busy bar.
Contributory negligence is a common cause of slip-and-fall accidents. It involves the plaintiff’s share of the blame for the accident. A defendant might claim that the plaintiff contributed to their injuries by ignoring their surroundings. Depending on how much they are responsible, the plaintiff may have her compensation reduced by the court.
Let’s say, for example, that the courts assign 20% fault to the plaintiff because she texted and walked in a slip-and-fall case. In this example, the plaintiff would be awarded $80,000 from a $100,000 award. However, the plaintiff can still be eligible for compensation if they are not more than 50% at fault for the accident.
How a Las Vegas Slip and Fall Lawyer Can Help You
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, seek legal help from an experienced slip and fall attorney. At Temple Injury Law, our team has extensive experience helping individuals who have suffered injuries due to a slip-and-fall incident.
Whether you were injured at a casino or another business in Las Vegas, we can help you in seeking the compensation that you rightfully deserve. Our legal team will work tirelessly to build a strong claim on your behalf. If necessary, we will be prepared to represent you in court to get your desired outcome. To learn more about how we can help with your slip and fall claim, schedule a consultation with us.
