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Summer is not even over but with the return of school, we now realize that winter is right around the corner. Our winters can be brutal so it’s important to keep in mind safety issues when we’re out and about during winter weather.
As temperatures drop, ice and snow create hazards that impact people every day. Slipping accidents are often just that — accidents. But in many cases, as Sarnia personal injury lawyers, we bring slip and fall claims against owners of private and public areas who are negligent in maintaining those properties in order to be as safe as possible.
Minor to Life-Altering
Slip and fall accidents can range from minor to life-altering. Our elderly are often the greatest sufferers of these dangerous accidents. But the elderly are not the only ones who suffer each year from slip and fall accidents. In fact, according to OSHA, more than 42,000 Canadians are injured each year as a result of slip and fall accidents.
Slip and Fall Accidents Due to Negligence
A slip and fall accident is one where injuries are sustained due to negligence on the part of a property owner, manager, or other “occupier”. These can run a range from too little traction, surfaces being wet and slippery, insufficient lighting, hazards and clutter littering the walkway, or any of a myriad of other potential hazards. If negligence is involved, any injuries can result in a slip and fall claim in order to compensate the victim for their injuries.
What to Do Immediately After a Fall
If you are involved in a slip and fall injury, you want to make sure that you do the following, both for your own health and safety and also to document anything for a potential claim.
● Seek medical attention immediately. Your health is your first priority. Get checked by a physician even if you are not sure of an injury.
● Get the names of anyone who may have witnessed the fall.
● Report your fall to the owner or manager of the property.
● Take photographs of the area where the fall took place.
● Keep any footwear or clothing you were wearing at the time of the fall.
You Are Entitled to Compensation for Injuries
Although you may be reluctant to file a claim, if the owner or occupier was negligent, others may also become victims. And you have a legal right to having the cost of injuries and damages compensated. These can include:
● Any medical costs including medications
● Physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other therapies
● Lost wages
● Support workers or attendant care
● Pain and suffering
Keep Safe
As winter draws near, remember to keep as safe as possible on our slippery outdoor surfaces. Keep watchful and diligent wherever you are walking. Make sure to wear suitable shoes or boots with good traction. Report any obvious hazards to the owner or manager of the property so others are not injured.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, get the advice of a Sarnia injury lawyer. You may be entitled to file a claim for your injuries. Call the legal team at BLFON Personal Injury Lawyer to understand your rights after a slip and fall accident.