Accidents happen to everyone and it’s easy to get flustered and not take the right course of action after an accident occurs. Slip and fall accidents can happen easily if you are not paying attention to your surroundings. It’s easy to not notice an obstruction in your path at work or on the sidewalk outside and suddenly find yourself injured on the ground. Here are some frequently asked questions with respect to slip and fall accidents.

How do slip and fall accidents generally occur?

A slip and fall accident can happen quickly and very easily. There are a number of potential causes but here are a few of the most common for slip and fall accidents:

• Poor lighting
• Dangerous weather
• Mats that aren’t tied down properly
• General clutter
• Slick flooring

Sometimes no matter how cautious you are, your surroundings can simply be conducive to a slip and fall.

How to proceed after a slip and fall accident

Firstly it is important to be sure you are not seriously harmed. Serious injury can result from even the most simple slip and fall accident, so assess your personal wellbeing before making any big moves. It is important to seek medical assistance even if your injuries are minor, you never know how serious an injury is until it’s properly assessed. Common injuries associated with slip and fall accidents include bruises, broken bones, muscle damage, torn ligaments, concussions, and other head injuries.

Once you have received proper medical care it is important to document the slip and fall. The big question to ask is who is responsible for the premises you fell on?

If the fall happened at work, your boss needs to fill out the appropriate forms to submit to the worker’s compensation board. There are strict timelines on this process and your boss will be able to assist you with the necessary forms.

If the fall happened on a municipal street you need to inform the municipality as soon as possible. Time is of the essence if you wish to sue and each municipality has their own strict filing time limitations. In Ontario, a municipality must receive written notice of the details of the fall and the intention to pursue a claim within 10 days of the accident.

When to seek a lawyer

Slip and fall accidents can be tricky because you may be unsure who is ultimately at fault. The truth of the matter is you must look out for your own best interests. Accidents of any variety can impair your ability to work and earn a living. They can also cause painful injuries that can lead to a lifetime of costly discomfort.  With a lawyer fighting for your case, you can rest assured that your voice will be heard and possibly be the recipient of a much-needed settlement to help with the post slip and fall cost of living.

Contact Zuber Brioux Ontario Injury Lawyers for your free initial consultation to protect your legal rights and discover whether you are entitled to compensation.