As fall turns into winter, a new atmosphere transforms the environment into a soft and magical scene. The sparkling appearance caused by the frozen dew and the snowflakes that color the landscape white gives a sense of calm and serenity. Unfortunately, these breathtaking changes come with increased slip and fall accidents. The sidewalks, parking lots, and footpaths become slippery, leading to falls that may cause:
- Sprains and fractures to the wrist, arms, or legs
- Back and spinal injuries
- Head injuries
- Bruises and contusions
Did you know you can receive compensation for damages after a New Jersey slip and fall accident? The following section explains how to decrease your slip and fall risk, what qualifies as a slip or fall case, and who’s responsible for injuries sustained.
Decrease Your Slip and Fall Accident Risk in New Jersey
Being aware of your surroundings is crucial in reducing the risk of a slip-and-fall accident. Additional steps to take include:
- Wearing shoes with good traction
- Using a cane or walker
- Watching out for black ice
- Making use of handrails
- Taking short small steps
- Bend slightly forward while walking
- Keeping your hands out of your pocket
- Clearing ice or caked snow from your shoes
Despite your efforts to avoid a slip-and-fall accident, some conditions increase the risk. That’s when a slip-and-fall claim emerges.
What Qualifies as a Slip and Fall Case
Not every slip-and-fall accident in New Jersey is your fault. Sometimes, it’s the place you were that had not taken enough measures to prevent an accident from happening. A slip and fall case or claim encompasses slips, trips, or falls that result in a person acquiring an injury.
A slip occurs when a person’s feet slide uncontrollably because of a lack of friction on the walking surface. A trip means staggering or stumbling over an obstacle, such as a heap of snow or an object not easily seen due to snow coverage. These two scenarios can lead to a fall that qualifies for a slip and fall claim. However, not all slip-and-fall incidents meet the criteria for a legal case. A New Jersey Personal injury attorney can help determine if you have a slip and fall case.
Who’s Responsible for Slip-and-Fall Accidents in New Jersey?
Anyone responsible for maintaining the premises where you fell is likely liable for your slip and fall injuries. The people involved could be:
- Commercial or private property owners
- Property managers
- Maintenance companies
- Custodians
- Tenants of a rental unit
- State and local governments
You may have legal grounds for a claim if you experience a slip and fall injury on these premises or premises where safety measures are dictated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) laws. A Newark personal injury lawyer can help you assess the payout you may receive and the period you may have to pursue the claim.
Book a free consultation with the Law Office of Peter Briskin, P.C. if you have sustained injuries from a slip and fall Accident in New Jersey.