Slip and fall accidents are extremely common in the United States. They are a leading cause of injuries for all age groups and can result in serious and long-lasting injuries. Over one million people go to the ER for injuries sustained due to a slip and fall. Regardless of what the accident was caused by, slip and falls can be painful and costly. For assistance in your injury case a Pike County, KY premises liability lawyer can help. Contact a skilled attorney today.
What Are the Main Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents?
Slip and fall accidents can be caused by various hazards and dangers in stores, hotels, parking lots, hospitals, restaurants, swimming pools, and private residences. The following are some leading causes of slip and fall accidents.
- Wet floors are often a contributing factor to slip and falls. Whether water has covered a walkway from splashing at a pool, a drink has been spilled, or there is a leak in the ceiling, wet floors mean slippery floors, and an accident is bound to happen.
- Uneven surfaces can also cause falls especially when it is unexpected. Rippling in carpet, loose tiles, insecure flooring, cracks in pavement, and potholes can all become dangers for unsuspecting visitors.
- A person’s foot or shoe may catch on a tripping hazard as well. If tools or toys are left out, wiring is laid across a pathway, or other objects are scattered where people walk, it can create a tripping hazard and cause guests to fall and hurt themselves.
- Weather can contribute to slip and falls as well. Ice, snow, and sleet can cause slipping hazards in the winter months if a walkway or parking lot is not salted or shoveled.
Can I Pursue Legal Action?
You may be able to pursue legal action after suffering an injury in a slip and fall accident. Accidents occurring on both public and private property can fall under what is known as premises liability law.
Under this legal theory, property owners can be found liable for a lawful visitor’s accident or injuries if it occurred on their property and due to some behavior of the owner. Property owners must maintain a reasonable level of safety on their property. If they neglected this duty and some preventable danger caused an accident, you may be able to file a claim or lawsuit against them to pursue compensation.
What is the Statute of Limitations for a Slip and Fall in Kentucky?
The statute of limitations for a slip and fall accident varies depending on the state where it occurred. In Kentucky, a victim of a slip and fall accident can begin the process of pursuing legal action for up to one year after the date of the accident. Once the one-year time frame has passed, so has the victim’s opportunity to seek justice and damages for the costs associated with their accident.
Filing a claim or lawsuit can be overwhelming and it is important to meet deadlines and abide by the correct policies. Obtain help from a trusted attorney to ease your legal worries and ensure you are fairly compensated for your medical and other expenses.
