Slip and Fall Accidents

Slips and falls can be funny in slapstick comedies when stunt specialists--protected with padding and knowing how to fall properly--take on-screen tumbles.

But in real life, slips and falls are a leading cause of serious injury. Even the smallest trip-up can result in a significant injury to ankles, legs, arms, hands, lower back or the head.

Generally, property owners in much of Ohio, including Columbus, can be fined for not cleaning the "natural accumulation" of snow and ice from parking lots, driveways and sidewalks. However, once you begin to clear snow and ice, you have an obligation to perform the job completely and you expose yourself to civil liability (being sued) if you fail to use reasonable care. Once you attempt to clear snow and ice, you can be responsible if someone subsequently slips and falls there.

However, if you make no attempt to clear ice and snow you may be subject to a fine, but you are not liable if someone slips and falls on your property. In the eyes of the law, people should know that snow and ice create slippery conditions, and the accumulation of snow and ice serves as its own obvious warning to others.

What are other causes for falls? Slippery materials on floors, stairs with faulty handrails, uneven concrete or slate sidewalks, improperly secured carpets or mats: all of these conditions can also cause falls.

Anyone who has a slip-and-fall accident and experiences injury should do several simple things. First, get immediate medical assistance and follow your physician's instructions. Second, ask for the names, addresses, and phone numbers of witnesses who saw the fall. Third, try to save any evidence related to the fall, remembering that the best evidence is always photographs taken at the scene. Fourth, consult a lawyer about your potential legal rights.

For more information, visit www.nfpa.org or www.aaa.com.