How Can Uneven Surfaces Lead to a Slip and Fall Injury?

One of the many ways Floridians sustain injuries is through slips, trips, or falls, which often are prompted by uneven surfaces. These accidents can occur in a variety of settings and sometimes premises liability claims follow.

When you are aware of different types of uneven surfaces that can cause slip and fall injuries, you can take precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones. To learn more about your right to compensation, have a conversation with an experienced Delray Beach personal injury attorney who is familiar with the types of businesses where these incidents typically happen and how to hold the owners and managers of these organizations accountable.

Examples of Uneven Surfaces Leading to Harm

Poorly maintained walking surfaces that can lead to accidents. When falls happen, people may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. This can be true if a person hurts their arms or hips, areas that are particularly vulnerable during a fall. Ankles and wrists are also commonly sprained or strained in a slip incident, leading to pain and limited mobility.

• Cracked and broken sidewalks. When there are cracks, holes, or uneven surfaces within a walkway these risks can easily trip pedestrians. These defects are particularly hazardous in areas with high foot traffic.
• Loose floorboards and carpeting. Inside buildings, loose floorboards, tiles, or wrinkled carpeting can create trips. These risks are often found in older buildings and establishments that are not maintained on a regular basis.
• Poorly maintained staircases. Steps and staircases that are not unkempt or without proper handrails pose significant risks. Even a slight variation in step height can lead to a dangerous fall.
• Parking lot potholes. Parking lots with potholes or uneven surfaces can cause vehicles to become unstable and pedestrians to trip and fall, especially if the area is poorly lit.
• Sloped walkways. When a walkway has unexpected inclines or declines, especially if not marked or equipped with non-slip surfaces, slips may occur.
• Wet or surfaces. Floors that are not level and also wet or slippery due to spills, rain, or cleaning can dramatically increase the risk of a fall.

The severity of slip, trip, and fall injuries varies. Some falls result in concussions or traumatic brain injuries, which can have long-term effects on cognitive and physical abilities. Others lead to cuts and bruises which are not serious but can still be painful and require medical attention.

Possible Premises Liability Claims

Businesses that have faced premises liability claims include retail stores, restaurants, office buildings, hotels, and apartment complexes. Share the specifics of your situation with a Delray Beach personal injury attorney to explore monetary settlement options. To successfully file a claim, the injured party must prove that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to address it.

Is your documentation enough to hold a property owner responsible for your injury expenses? Detailed documentation of the accident scene, witness statements, and medical records can build a strong case. The lawyers at Earnhart Law in Delray Beach can collect the necessary evidence on your behalf. Call 561-265-2220 or contact us online.