Slip and fall accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence in Ontario, causing pain, suffering and even death.
Dangerous situations can often be quite apparent and can easily avoided; At other times these circumstances are more difficult to distinguish. For example, stairs, walkways or sidewalks may appear safe, but turn out to be quite dangerous. The Kahler Personal Injury lawyers have seen many victims injured as a result of obstructed walkways, poorly lit corridors, damaged surfaces, improperly designed stairs, and wet or icy surfaces in both private and public places.
Slips happen when there is limited traction between your feet and the walking surface. Slip accidents are commonly a result of:
- Wet flooring
- Icy walkways
- Freshly mopped floors
- Spills
- Floor surfaces with various traction levels all in one area
Trips occur when your foot is obstructed by an object or circumstance that causes your loss of balance. Trip accidents are commonly a result of:
- Inadequate lighting
- Snow covered walks
- Clutter or debris
- Loose flooring
- Wires and cables
- Wrinkled mats
- Poor lighting
- Holes in pavement
- A sudden change in surface elevation
- Improperly designed or broken stairways
- Weather related hazards
- A safe and level surface for walking is even more important important for children, seniors and people with physical disabilities.
Property owners are obligated to keep their premises safe and hazard free. If the owner fails in this responsibility and someone is injured, the victim may be eligible to claim compensation for medical costs, financial losses, and pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in a slip and fall accident; seek medical attention as soon as possible. Not all slip and fall injuries require the same treatment. Symptoms of soft tissue damage can appear immediately after the incident or many hours after. Get the names and phone numbers of anyone who may have witnessed the accident, then seek the advice of your personal injury lawyer.