Summer is here in Upstate New York, and everyone looks forward to spending time outdoors. Boats are back on the water. Flip-flops and sneakers have replaced snowshoes and boots.
The slush and ice may have vanished but slip and falls unfortunately turn into trips and falls when on another’s property, whether on a broken step, loose concrete in a sidewalk at the mall, or worn carpet in a restaurant. These types of hazards can cause people to suffer sprains, broken bones and sometimes even catastrophic injuries, including coma and death.
How to Prevent Falls
Catastrophic injuries or death can happen instantly when someone slips or trips and suddenly loses control of their body. There is the immediate physical and emotional pain that comes with the fall, but unfortunately lost income and permanent disability can devastate families and force once-independent people to become a financial burden on loved ones.
In New York State, fall-related injuries are the leading cause of hospitalizations for children 14 and under and adults over 25.
Everyone suffers because of injuries, which add up to $1.3 billion in statewide hospitalization costs.
Be aware of the surface you are walking on, wear shoes with adequate tread, and slow down where lighting isn’t good. Keep an eye on the sidewalk, pavement, or floor surface ahead of you, as inadequate maintenance often results in unsafe walking surfaces, and an accident waiting to happen.
Fight for Fair Compensation
Property owners must keep their premises safe from hazards that can cause falls. Clumsiness has nothing to do with it. If you are injured because of someone else’s negligence, a personal injury claim may be available to compensate you for pain and suffering, medical costs and lost income.
An experienced attorney such as those at Anderson, Moschetti and Taffany will advise you of your rights and help you build a strong case to enable you to receive full compensation for your injuries and economic loss.