Slip and Fall
Greg
Jan 29, 2025

What is a slip, trip, or fall? What is the difference? Slips, trips, and falls are part of a broad category of personal injury accidents used to describe an event where a person loses their balance. In some cases, these accidents may cause injuries. Poor floor conditions, wet surfaces, uneven surfaces, and cluttered walkways are just a few causes of these incidents.

From a legal perspective, slips, trips, and falls are a type of premises liability claim. This means if a negligent property or business owner is to blame for your injuries, you may be able to recover compensation. Contacting a Philadelphia Slip and Fall Lawyer can be a prudent first step in the event of an accident.

What Is a “Slip”?

Slips happen when there is not sufficient friction between a person’s feet and the ground. In these cases, a person’s foot or feet may “slip out” causing them to fall backwards or forwards. 

Some examples of slip hazards are:

  • Poor footwear
  • Wet floors or spills
  • Snow or ice
  • Objects or clutter in walkway

It’s important to note that slips and falls are one of the most common types of workplace accidents. Employers and employees should take steps to prevent workplace injuries. Injured employees will want to be certain to report the accident, any injuries, and secure their right to workers’ compensation.

What Is a “Trip”?

Trips happen when a person’s foot comes into contact with an object causing them to lose their balance. These events may cause the person to stumble or fall, usually forward. Trips may sometimes cause injury.  

Some examples of trip hazards are:

  • Uneven surfaces
  • Poor lighting
  • Loose rugs, carpeting, or flooring
  • Cords, trash, or clutter 
  • Sudden changes in walkway level

While the difference between a slip and trip may seem small, this fact may be critical to an injury claim. Showing the cause of the accident and how the injury occurred is key to proving liability and recovering damages.

What Is a “Fall”?

A fall is when a person unintentionally loses stability and comes to rest on the ground or a lower level. Falls are one of the leading causes of accidental death and personal injury and the number one cause of emergency room visits.

Some examples of fall hazards include:

  • Slipping or tripping
  • Dangerous stairs or ladders
  • Lack of handrails  
  • Health conditions that affect balance or cause walking difficulties

Fractures, head injuries, knee, and ankle injuries are the most common injuries resulting from slip, trip, or fall accidents. Death, paralysis, and other catastrophic injuries may also occur if there is sufficient momentum. If you’ve been hurt, you should consider contacting a Personal Injury Lawyer for legal help.

How Can You Prevent Slips, Trips And Falls?

Property owners and business owners are responsible for maintaining their property and keeping it safe for visitors. Slips, trips, and falls safety is the number one way to prevent these accidents. 

Property owners and business owners should conduct regular, comprehensive risk assessments of the premises. Some ways owners can reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents include:

  • Removing or warning of hazards
  • Compliance with OSHA regulations
  • Safety training for employees
  • Properly installed handrails
  • Thorough cleaning procedures and maintenance
  • Keeping walking surfaces clean and clear

Similarly, individuals will want to take safety precautions to prevent slip, trip, and fall accidents. Some actions you can take include:

  • Obeying any warning signs 
  • Wearing slip resistant shoes
  • Complying with workplace safety rules
  • Using caution and watching for any hazards like clutter, obstructions, spills, or poor lighting

It is critical to be aware of any fall risk factors you may encounter or if there is a risk specific to your situation. For example, older individuals or those suffering from certain health conditions may be at an increased risk of falls. 

Contact A Lawyer For Legal Help

Slip, trip, and fall injury claims can be complex. Property and business owners may try to deny liability or shift the blame onto you. Taking prompt action to secure your legal rights is essential. 

If you’ve experienced a slip, trip, or fall, the Law Offices of Greg Prosmushkin, P.C. is here to help. We can assist you with your injury or workers’ compensation claim. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation.

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