Virginia Beach Slip and Fall Injury Lawyers

Slip and fall accidents can happen at any time, but most of them can be prevented by implementing simple safety methods. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that in this country, more than one million people are injured in slip and fall accidents every year. Between 20 to 30 percent of these injuries are considered moderate to severe; injuries can range from bruising to bone fractures and head injuries.

Fortunately, most slip and fall accidents can be prevented with the right safety precautions. Good lighting in stairwells, walkways, and anywhere that has high volume foot traffic is an important feature that reduces numerous slip and fall accidents.

Slip and Fall Accident Injuries

The CDC classifies a fall in two ways, a fall from a height and a same-level fall. Most slip and fall accidents are same-level falls, this includes when a person slips on a wet floor or trips over debris. Slip and fall accidents can cause painful and debilitating injuries, including:

Back and spinal cord injuries.
Broken bones including hip fractures.
Cuts and bruises.
Neck injuries.
Traumatic brain injuries.

Falls are especially common among seniors because vision and balance tend to decline with age. Seniors are more likely to be hurt in a fall, and it takes their body longer to recover from injuries. It also takes seniors more time to adjust their eyes to the dark. That is why it is important to ensure that they have good lighting in their homes, floors, steps, and handrails.

Poor Lighting and Falls

When we cannot see where we are walking, we are unable to avoid hazards like potholes, cracks in the pavement, and wet floors. For that reason, home and commercial property owners are expected to maintain adequate lighting to reduce the chance of a slip and fall accident. That means replacing light bulbs, making sure all lights are properly working, and having enough lighting to ensure good visibility in areas where people are walking.

Slip and Fall Injury Claims

When we invite people to our home or place of business, we have an inherent obligation to ensure our property is safe. That means making sure it is well lit and free of other slip and fall hazards like spills, trash, and uneven, damaged floors. Homes and businesses have the same expected safety expectations. If you are hurt because of hazards that could have been prevented, you may consider bringing a premises liability claim against a negligent property owner to recover the costs of your medical care and other significant losses.