Slip and Fall Accidents

Understanding Premises Liability Law in New Hampshire

All property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe for visitors, customers, and guests. If you were hurt in a slip and fall accident while on the property of another, you may have a cause of action against the person or company responsible for maintaining the property.

To be legally responsible (or “liable”) for a slip and fall accident on someone else’s property, one of the following must be true:

• The owner of the property or an employee must have caused a spill or other slippery or dangerous surface or item to be underfoot;
• The owner of the property or an employee must have known about a dangerous condition or surface bud done nothing about it, or
• The owner of the property or an employee should have known about a dangerous condition or surface because a reasonable person taking care of the property would have discovered the condition or surface and removed or repaired it.

It can be difficult to establish that someone should be held liable for the injuries you suffered as a result of a slip and fall accident. In most slip and fall accident cases, expert witnesses are required to testify about certain issues. Most property owners have property insurance, and property insurance company lawyers will fight hard to defeat your case.

These are some of the many reasons why it is critical to hire an experienced premises liability lawyer if you have been involved in an slip and fall accident.

Common Causes of Slip & Fall Accidents

Common causes may include:

• Wet or Uneven Surfaces: Wet or uneven surfaces are among the most routine causes of slip and fall accidents. This includes spills on floors, wet entryways, and areas with poor drainage. Additionally, uneven tiles, loose floorboards, and torn carpeting can pose significant tripping hazards.
• Weather Conditions: Unfavorable weather conditions like rain, snow, and ice significantly increase the risk of slip and fall accidents. Property owners must maintain safe walkways by shoveling snow, applying salt, or using mats to reduce slip risks.
• Poor Lighting: Inadequate lighting can obscure hazards that lead to slip and fall accidents. Dark stairwells, dimly lit hallways, and poorly lit parking lots are common areas where insufficient lighting can result in serious injuries.
• Obstructions and Debris: Cluttered walkways, scattered debris, and unexpected obstacles can cause individuals to trip and fall. This is especially problematic in high-traffic areas such as shopping centers, office buildings, and construction sites.
• Lack of Handrails and Safety Features: Staircases, ramps, and other elevated surfaces can lead to falls without proper handrails or safety features. Property owners must ensure that these areas comply with safety regulations to prevent accidents.

Common Injuries in Slip & Fall Accidents

Here are some of the most common injuries resulting from these accidents:

• Fractures and Broken Bones: Fractures, particularly in the wrists, arms, hips, and ankles, are among the most common injuries in slip and fall accidents. These injuries often occur when a person tries to catch themselves during a fall or lands awkwardly.
• Head Injuries: Head injuries, which inlcudes concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are serious consequences of slip and fall accidents. These injuries can lead to long-term cognitive problems, memory loss, and even permanent disability.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Falls could lead to severe spinal cord injuries, including herniated discs, fractures, and even paralysis. Spinal cord injuries often demand extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries, like sprains, strains, and torn ligaments, are common in slip and fall accidents. These injuries can cause significant pain and limit mobility, often requiring physical therapy for recovery.
• Cuts and Bruises: While cuts and bruises may seem small, they can still be painful and lead to complications such as infections. In some cases, deep cuts may require stitches or other medical interventions.
• Knee Damage: Knee injuries, including torn ligaments and meniscus tears, can occur when a person twists or lands on their knee during a fall. These injuries can be particularly debilitating, often needing surgery and extensive rehabilitation.