Virginia Beach Slip and Fall Injury Lawyer

Warm weather is finally here, and this means that more people are spending time outdoors. Many children take advantage of the nicer days and spend their time outside, running around with their friends and family. As fun as outdoor activities can be for kids, they unfortunately run the risk of being injured in a slip and fall accident. If a child falls and hits his or her head, it could lead to a catastrophic injury, such as a traumatic brain injury. Traumatic brain injuries can be lifelong and can lead to complications or even death. For these reasons, it is beneficial to be aware of common slip and fall hazards and how you can teach your child to avoid these dangers.

Remind Your Child to Look Before Taking a Step

Children are not the most aware of their surroundings and need some reminding that they need to look around before taking a step. Ensure that your child knows to look at the ground before getting out of the car, and watch for puddles, and “wet floor” signs. It is also important to teach kids to walk and not run, especially in a crowded area or on uneven pavement.

Shoes Should be Worn at All Times

As tempting as it is to go barefoot, teach your child to always wear shoes when outside. Wearing shoes can help prevent foot injuries and are necessary when playing outdoors or in a public place. If shoes are not worn, your child is at a higher risk of falling if the ground is slippery or wet.

Do Not Leave Your Child Unsupervised

Younger children should not play outside without an adult watching them. To learn right from wrong, a child needs an adult who teaches them how to safely engage in activities outside.

What Symptoms Should You Look for if an Accident Does Occur?

If your child does slip and fall, look for these symptoms:

Vomiting
Increased tiredness and difficulty waking up
Head, neck, or back pain
Lack of focus in the eyes
Seizures
Difficulty running or walking

If any of these symptoms occur after a slip and fall, obtain medical attention immediately.

How Does Premises Liability Apply?

Accidents can happen at anytime and anyplace. If an injury occurs, the property owner can be held responsible under premises liability law. If the owner failed to keep the property safe or lacks hazard signs, he or she will be held accountable. Examples of premises liabilities include slipping on a wet spot in a grocery store and tripping in a poorly maintained parking lot. These kinds of situations can lead to injury or death. Children are usually less aware of hazards and are more prone to injuries compared to adults.

To sue a property owner for injuries that your child is suffering from, the plaintiff must successfully show that the owner failed to maintain the property or warn visitors of hazards. To be entitled to compensation, the person suing should keep all medical bills and a record of other expenses that stem from taking care of the injured child. You may be entitled to compensation that covers the child’s medical bills, a parent’s missed wages, and the mental and emotional stress that the child has gone through.