Slip/Trip and Fall Accidents
A simple fall can change your life in an instant. Whether it happens in a grocery store, office building, apartment complex, or mall, a slip and fall or trip and fall accident can lead to serious injuries, lost wages, and ongoing pain.
Slip and trip and fall cases are often challenged by property owners and insurance companies. They may argue that you weren’t paying attention or that the danger was obvious. At Jeremy Pineres Law, we help injury victims in Georgia hold negligent property owners accountable and recover the compensation they deserve.
What Is a Slip or Trip and Fall Case?
Slip or trip and fall accidents are a type of premises liability claim. These cases arise when someone is injured because a property owner or occupier failed to maintain safe conditions or warn about known hazards.
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Common causes include:
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Wet or slippery floors with no warning signage
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Broken or uneven sidewalks or pavement
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Loose rugs or torn carpeting
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Cluttered walkways
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Poor lighting in stairwells or hallways
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Broken or missing handrails
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Potholes or unsafe parking lot conditions
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Unsecured electrical cords or equipment
The above list is not exhaustive. As each case may be different, legal representation is critical for these types of accidents.
Slip and Fall vs. Trip and Fall: What’s the Difference?
While both result in similar injuries, the mechanism of the fall can affect how liability is argued in court.
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Slip and Fall:
Occurs when the foot loses traction, often due to:
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Wet floors
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Oil or grease
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Ice or snow
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Loose rugs
Typically the hazard is not easily seen.
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Trip and Fall:
Happens when the foot catches on or strikes an object, such as:
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Uneven pavement
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Exposed cords or wires
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Broken steps
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Parking lot curbs
These hazards may be visible, making “foreseeability” a legal issue.
What to Do After a Fall
Because these claims typically happen at managed properties, taking the following steps can help with proving a fall:
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Report the incident to the property owner or manager immediately
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Document the scene (photos, videos, witness names)
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Seek medical treatment, even if injuries seem minor
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Avoid giving statements to insurers before talking to a lawyer
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While some falls result in minor bruises, many cause severe, long-lasting injuries, especially for older adults.