How to Deal With Trip and Fall Accidents

You've probably heard of slip and fall accidents - personal injury lawyers mention them from time to time in their commercials. But did you know that there are trip and fall accidents as well?

It's true, all personal injury cases are not lumped together in a single 'slip' category. Let's explore what a trip and fall incident is, and what can be done if you've suffered from one.

The most important factor when considering trip and falls is the introduction of a destabilizing object to the normal walking habits of you or whoever suffered the fall. If there is a protrusion or object out of place that has caused the lose of balance, the accident could be considered trip rather than slip.

Here are some examples of tripping in action:

* Loose, protruding floor boards

* Electrical cord extensions

* Uneven sidewalks / protruding macadam

* Turned up floor matting

Tripping Can Happen From Both Large and Small Objects

It's important to note that tripping can occur very easily, and the size of the object involved is not a determining factor in deciding whether or not you might be entitled to legal recourse.

A large element such as a raised sidewalk can cause serious physical damage to bikers and walkers. Small, hidden elements such as hoses or childrens toys can be just as dangerous .

Do I Have Legal Recourse For My Injuries?

The big question when suffering from a trip and fall accident is whether or not you will have to foot the hospital bills on your own. In certain situations, it could be within your rights to pursue compensation from whomever owns the property in question.

In many states there is a statute known as Premises Liability. This puts the burden of responsibility on the landowner to make sure their property, sidewalk, etc is free from obvious trip and fall elements.

Many times a business or homeowner's insurance will provide coverage for the costs of your injury, but only if you can prove the incidence was due to the negligence of the other party. Furthermore, you're right to sue could be altered by the capacity upon which you were on the premises (for example, a house guest vs a burglar).

States often have different requirements for what they like to see when presenting a trip and fall accident. You're best bet is to find competent legal representation in the area and have them analyze your case personally.