Slip & Fall Accident Lawyers

When most people hear the word “accident,” they think of auto crashes. That said, accidents can happen in a wide array of circumstances, and often, they occur as a result of dangerous property conditions, which, in many cases, result in slips, trips, and falls. If you were injured in a slip or trip and fall accident due to dangerous property conditions, a seasoned Central Washington personal injury lawyer from Calbom & Schwab Law Group, PLLC can help you fight for the compensation and justice you deserve. Contact our slip and fall accident lawyers today to learn more about how we can assist you through every step of the personal injury claims process ahead.

Common Causes of Slip & Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can happen for a multitude of reasons, but some of the most common causes of these accidents that we see are as follows:

• Wet or recently cleaned floors: spills that are left unattended, freshly mopped surfaces without proper warning signs, or even water tracked in from outside can create conditions that are far more dangerous than they may initially appear.
• Uneven or damaged walking surfaces: cracked sidewalks, loose tiles, worn carpeting, and potholes are all examples of hazards that can develop over time when property maintenance is neglected.
• Poor lighting conditions: when stairwells, parking lots, or hallways are not properly illuminated, it becomes significantly more difficult to identify and avoid potential hazards.
• Ice, snow, and weather-related hazards: in Central Washington, seasonal conditions can quickly create slippery surfaces, and property owners are generally expected to take reasonable steps to mitigate these risks.
• Missing or unstable handrails: staircases without secure handrails can pose a serious danger, particularly for individuals who rely on them for balance and support.
• Cluttered or obstructed walkways: items left in aisles or entryways, whether temporarily or otherwise, can create unexpected tripping hazards.
• Improper flooring choices: certain materials may be overly slick or inappropriate for specific environments, especially in areas where moisture is common.
• Lack of routine inspection and maintenance: when property owners fail to regularly check for hazards, small issues can quickly become dangerous conditions.

Common Injuries Sustained in Slip & Fall Accidents

The injuries that result from a fall can vary quite a bit, depending on how the fall occurred and the circumstances surrounding it. Some people are able to walk away with minor bruising, while others face far more serious consequences. Some of the most common injuries sustained in these accidents are as follows:

• Fractures: particularly in the wrists, arms, hips, and ankles, which often occur when someone instinctively tries to break a fall.
• Head injuries: including concussions and traumatic brain injuries, which may not always show symptoms right away.
• Back and spinal injuries: these can involve disc damage or nerve issues that may lead to long-term complications.
• Sprains and strains: soft tissue injuries that can limit mobility and take time to fully heal.
• Cuts and lacerations: visible injuries that may require stitches or other medical treatment.
• Shoulder injuries: including dislocations or tears that can impact range of motion.
• Knee injuries: such as ligament damage that may require physical therapy or surgery.
• Chronic pain conditions: ongoing discomfort that can develop well after the initial injury has occurred.

What to Do if You’ve Sustained a Slip and Fall Injury

After a slip and fall accident, it is not always clear what steps should be taken next. That said, the steps you take can drastically impact the outcome of your case. If you can, you should do everything in your power to take the following steps:

1. Seek medical attention: even if your injuries do not seem severe at first, a proper evaluation can identify underlying issues and create a record of your condition.
2. Report the incident: notifying the property owner, manager, or appropriate authority helps ensure that the event is documented.
3. Document the scene: taking photographs or videos of the hazard, surrounding conditions, and any lack of warning signs can preserve important evidence.
4. Gather witness information: speaking with individuals who saw the accident and collecting their contact details can support your account of what happened.
5. Preserve evidence: keeping the clothing and shoes you were wearing may become relevant if questions about conditions or traction arise.
6. Be cautious with insurance companies: providing statements without fully understanding your rights can sometimes complicate your claim.
7. Follow your treatment plan: attending appointments and following medical advice shows the seriousness of your injuries and supports your recovery.
8. Contact a Central Washington slip and fall accident lawyer: a legal professional can help evaluate your situation and explain how Washington law applies to your case.

Recovering Compensation

When a slip and fall accident is caused by another party’s negligence, the injured individual may be entitled to compensation for a variety of losses. The exact nature and extent of these damages will depend on the circumstances of the case.

• Medical expenses: this can include emergency care, hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing treatment needs.
• Lost wages: income lost due to time away from work while recovering from your injuries.
• Loss of earning capacity: compensation for reduced ability to earn income in the future if your injuries have long-term effects.
• Pain and suffering: the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and its aftermath.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: limitations on your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
• Rehabilitation costs: expenses related to physical therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling.

Contact Our Central Washington Slip & Fall Accident Lawyers

If you’ve been injured, we can help. Here at Calbom & Schwab Law Group, PLLC, we have decades of experience representing those injured due to negligence in the Central Washington area, and we stand ready to put that experience to work for you as well. Contact our slip and fall accident lawyers for a free initial consultation today.