Accidents of all kinds can be dangerous and even life-altering. Slip and fall accidents in particular are all too common, yet many people don’t realize just how frequent they can be. According to a slip and fall attorney from our friends at David & Philpot, P.L., you may be surprised to learn just how common slip and fall accidents can be, and how important it is to know your rights if you find yourself involved in one.
People Slip and Fall All the Time
Even seemingly minor slips can result in long-term pain, disability, and medical bills. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, slip and fall accidents account for over one million emergency room visits every year. The elderly are especially vulnerable to falls, as older adults often suffer from chronic conditions or take medications that can contribute to unsteadiness. In fact, falls are the leading cause of death for adults aged 65 or older. As such, it’s important to always stay alert and be aware of your surroundings when walking on wet surfaces, uneven floors, or poorly lit spaces.
The Injuries Can Be Severe
Slip and fall accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from scrapes and bruises to serious bone fractures or even head trauma. Depending on the severity of the accident, you could end up with lasting physical or mental effects that may require long-term medical care. In some cases, even death can result from a slip and fall accident. That’s why it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, always watch your step, and take precautions to prevent accidents. Plus, even if the injuries don’t seem severe at the time of the accident, they could develop into something more serious over time. Long-term physical effects from a slip and fall accident are not uncommon, so it is important to keep track of any pain or other symptoms that you experience after the accident.
Most People Don’t Have Insurance
Even if you are careful and never had a slip and fall accident before, the unexpected medical bills can pile up quickly. If you don’t have insurance, you could be stuck with the bill for all of your expenses. This is one of the reasons why it’s so important to talk to an attorney if you have been involved in an accident. An experienced attorney can help you determine what kind of coverage you might be entitled to, as well as helping you fight for compensation from the responsible party. With an attorney on your side, you can make sure that your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you deserve.
The Statute of Limitations Is Short
Across the United States, the statutes of limitation vary from state to state. In the state of Florida, for example, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is four years from the date of the incident.
This means that after the four-year mark has passed, you cannot bring a lawsuit against anyone who may be at fault for your slip and fall. So, it’s important to seek legal help as soon as possible to make sure you are within the statute of limitations. Additionally, some states have statutes of repose which impose strict deadlines, regardless of when you realized that you have suffered an injury from the incident.
If you have experienced a slip and fall accident, contact a slip and fall accident attorney near you for help!