Slips, trips, and falls (STF) can occur anywhere, anytime, and to anyone. They are the most common accidents in Idaho and across the USA, leading to serious injuries or even fatalities. Slips happen when one loses footing on a surface that is slippery or wet, trips occur when a person stumbles over an obstacle, while falls happen when one loses balance due to a variety of causes such as uneven floors, poor lighting, or faulty equipment. Regardless of the nature of the accident, Idahoans need to understand their legal rights regarding STFs.
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Causes of STF accidents
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), STFs account for over 1 million annual falls in the United States and are a leading cause of death for people aged 65 and above. Some of the common causes of STFs in Idaho include:
- Poor lighting
- Uneven floors or pavement
- Wet or slippery surfaces
- Loose or torn carpets
- Missing or inadequate handrails
- Exposed cords or cables
- Cluttered walkways or obstacles in walking areas
Legal rights regarding STF accidents
If you suffer an STF accident due to another person’s negligence, such as a property owner, you have the right to seek compensation for damages. Some of the laws and regulations that protect your rights in Idaho include:
- State liability laws: These laws hold property owners responsible for ensuring that their premises are safe, and that any hazards that could cause STFs are removed or clearly marked. Failure to adhere to these laws makes them liable for any accidents that happen as a result.
- Comparative negligence: In some cases, victims of STF accidents could have contributed to their own injuries, for instance, by ignoring warning signs or running in a slippery area. In such cases, Idaho’s comparative negligence law allows for a partial recovery of damages based on the degree of fault assigned to each party.
- Workers’ compensation laws: If you suffer an STF accident while at work, Idaho’s workers’ compensation laws require your employer to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other related expenses.
What to do if you suffer an STF accident
If you suffer an STF accident, here are some steps to take to protect yourself and your legal rights:
- Seek medical attention immediately even if you think you are fine. Some injuries such as concussions or spinal cord injuries may not present visible symptoms but can be life-threatening.
- Notify the property owner or manager of the accident and request an incident report. Ensure that the report includes all relevant details such as the date and time of the accident, the location, and possible causes.
- Take pictures or videos of the accident scene, including any obstacles or hazardous conditions that led to your fall.
- Gather the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident happen.
- Seek legal advice from an experienced Idaho STF attorney who can help you determine the best legal options to pursue and represent you in negotiations or court proceedings.
Conclusion
Slips, trips, and falls are common in Idaho, and they can cause severe injuries or even fatalities. If you or a loved one suffers an STF accident due to another party’s negligence, you have the legal right to seek compensation for damages. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to learn more about your legal options. Additionally, property owners should ensure that they adhere to relevant laws and regulations to minimize the risk of STF accidents.