Walking from one place to another is not an activity that most people would consider to be dangerous or risky. In fact, when you are walking, you are probably not giving much thought to the factors that could be placing you at a higher risk for an accident. However, property conditions, even outside, could make it more likely that you will be in a slip-and-fall accident that may leave you with painful and debilitating injuries.
If you suffered injuries in a slip-and-fall accident, you may be wondering what this means for you going forward. You might wonder how you can recover from this type of event and who may be to blame. Dangerous and preventable property conditions may be to blame for what happened to you rather than clumsiness or other factors.
Dangerous property conditions
In certain situations, a slip-and-fall accident or trip-and-fall accident could be the result of negligent maintenance and dangerous property conditions. There may be a higher chance of these types of events during the winter months, when ice and snow may hinder safety and lead to a higher chance of an accident. Property owners are typically responsible for accumulations of ice and snow, particularly if it keeps people from safely walking in the area. They should clear hazards in a prompt and timely manner, even if they are naturally occurring.
This is also the case when you are walking outdoors in Missouri public areas. Public sidewalks, parking lots and walkways should be free from debris and other hazards that could cause you to fall. Slip-and-fall accidents may not seem like a serious accident, but they can lead to debilitating pain and injuries that can impact you long-term.
After this type of accident
After a slip-and-fall accident, you will benefit from an immediate explanation of your legal options. It is possible that you are eligible for compensation through a civil claim, but these cases are time-sensitive. It is imperative that you seek counsel regarding how you can move forward with holding the liable parties accountable for your losses, as well as your pain and suffering. You may find it helpful to seek an assessment of your potential premises liability claim as soon as possible.
