SLIPS, TRIPS & FALLS
February 24th, 2015 by admin
Sometimes falls can be comical, but lets keep that on screen only. “Slip and fall” is a term used for a personal injury case in which a person slips or trips and falls on your property. These cases usually fall under the broad category known as “premises liability” claims.
This can occur because of:
- wet or greasy floors
- torn carpeting
- poor lighting
- narrow stairs
- clutter and debris
- uneven surfaces
- improper cleaning
- lack of hazard identification
- broken or cracked public sidewalks
- rain, ice, or snow
- hidden hazard, such as a pothole in the ground.
- possible fraud
So when you or your business opens your doors to the public, potential liability for a slip and fall accident also opens up as well!
Personal
It is likely that you will rely on your homeowner’s insurance for a lawsuit against you for a slip and fall accident in your home. Homeowner’s insurance companies will likely investigate the accident, and ask you for:
- Photos
- Facts about what happened and how the injured party fell
- Condition pre-accident
- Who was involved and why
- Were you aware of the condion’s existence before the accident
Commercial
There is no specific way to determine when a business owner is legally responsible for a customer’s injuries; each case turns on whether the business and/or property owner took preventative measures to insure safety and whether the customer was careless.
It might be a visitor. It might be a customer. It might be your own employee.
- Offer medical attention
- Gather and record information
- Report the accident
- Define facts and circumstances
- Preserve an accident injury management record
- Notify your insurance company of any new information you may receive or develop
Routine inspection and maintenance should be a regular part of your safety program to help prevent falls for both your visitors and employees. Good housekeeping and proper lighting can go a long way!