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Have You Recently Suffered From a Slip and Fall Accident? We Understand the Pain and Stress That Comes With Such an Incident and We’re Here to Help.
Goldberg & Loren, the leading slip and fall attorneys in Portland, are dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation for those who have been injured due to negligence. With years of experience and a proven track record of success, we have the knowledge and expertise to fight for your rights and help you receive the compensation you deserve.
We know that dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering can be overwhelming. By choosing Goldberg & Loren as your slip-and-fall attorneys, you can have peace of mind knowing that we will handle all aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Don’t wait any longer; contact Goldberg & Loren today for a free consultation.
What is a Slip & Fall Accident?
A slip and fall accident occurs when an individual loses their footing and falls. When this happens on someone else’s property, a person may require a slip-and-fall lawyer. These accidents can happen in various settings, such as retail stores, shopping malls, private properties, and even public spaces.
Slip and falls can result in serious injuries like broken bones, spinal cord injuries, head trauma, or even wrongful death.
Medical costs resulting from slip and fall accidents, including doctor’s visits, hospital bills, medication, rehabilitation, and physical therapy, can quickly add up, causing significant financial strain.
Property owners have a duty of care to ensure that their premises are safe for visitors. This means that they must take reasonable steps to prevent potential hazards and maintain a reasonably safe environment.
When these accidents occur due to hazardous conditions or negligence on the part of a property owner, the injured person may be entitled to seek compensation for their damages.
More than 6.8 million people were treated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries in 2020. [1]
Causes of Slip & Fall Accidents
Poor Lighting
Whether it’s a dimly lit stairwell, a poorly lit parking lot, or a badly lit hallway, inadequate lighting poses serious risks and can lead to severe injuries.
Poorly lit staircases make it difficult for individuals to judge the depth and height of each step, increasing the likelihood of trips and falls. Without proper illumination, individuals may misstep or lose their balance, potentially resulting in broken bones, head injuries, or spinal cord damage.
Dimly lit parking lots not only make it difficult to locate vehicles but also create a breeding ground for accidents. The reduced visibility increases the chances of pedestrians tripping on curbs, potholes, uneven surfaces, or unseen debris. Poor lighting in parking lots can compromise personal safety, making individuals vulnerable to assaults or robberies.
When the responsible party fails to address poor lighting conditions, they put visitors at unnecessary risk of harm. Injured individuals may have the right to pursue legal action in order to seek compensation for their injuries and related expenses.
Wet Floors or Icy Walkways
Whether it’s a spill in a grocery store, a freshly mopped floor in a restaurant, or a wet surface in a public restroom, property owners have a duty to promptly address these dangerous conditions to ensure the safety of their visitors.
Property owners must take reasonable care to prevent accidents caused by wet floors or icy conditions, including promptly mopping up spills, using caution signs to alert visitors to potential hazards, using salt to dissolve ice on walkways, and ensuring proper drainage systems are in place.
Dangerous Conditions or Hazards on the Property
Cracked or uneven sidewalks, loose tiles, or uneven flooring can easily trip unsuspecting visitors, leading to injuries. Property owners should regularly inspect and maintain their property to ensure it is free from hazardous conditions that could cause a slip and fall accident.
Other potential hazards on a property include debris, loose cables, or obstructions in walkways. These hazards can be particularly dangerous in areas with high foot traffic, such as shopping centers or public facilities.
Other Common Causes of Slip & Fall Accidents
Whether it is loose objects, scattered materials, or even trash, debris can create a tripping hazard and increase the likelihood of slip and fall accidents.
Inadequate signage and warnings can also lead to slip and fall accidents. Areas that require caution, such as wet floors or construction zones, should be clearly marked with signs and warnings.
Snow and ice buildup on walkways and parking lots can create slippery surfaces, posing a serious risk to those walking on them.
Improperly designed staircases and ramps can also be a significant factor in slip and fall accidents. When these structures do not adhere to building codes, such as having proper handrails or steps of consistent height, they can cause unsafe conditions for individuals to navigate. Property owners must ensure that their staircases and ramps comply with safety regulations to prevent these types of accidents.
Common Injuries from a Slip and Fall Accident
When a person experiences a slip and fall accident, the consequences can be far-reaching and have a profound impact on their physical and emotional well-being.
Broken Bones
One of the most common injuries that individuals sustain in slip and fall accidents is broken bones. The force of the fall can cause fractures in various parts of the body, such as the wrists, arms, ankles, or hips. These injuries can cause extreme physical pain and may require surgery, immobilization, and physical therapy to heal properly.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Another frequently seen injury in slip and fall accidents is head trauma, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). When a person falls and hits their head, they can suffer from concussions, contusions, or even more severe brain damage. These injuries can have long-lasting effects on a person’s cognitive abilities, motor skills, and overall reduced enjoyment of life.
Spinal Injuries
When the spinal cord is damaged in a fall, individuals may experience partial or complete paralysis. These injuries can severely impact a person’s mobility, independence, and overall well-being. Rehabilitation, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care are often necessary to manage the effects of a spinal cord injury.
Soft Tissue
These injuries involve damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Strains, sprains, and bruising are common soft tissue injuries that can occur in slip and fall accidents.
The trauma of the incident, coupled with the pain and suffering from the injuries, can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Understanding Premises Liability Laws in Oregon
Premises liability laws place a duty of care on property owners, requiring them to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of those who enter their premises.
This means they must regularly inspect the property for potential hazards and take prompt action to address any dangerous conditions.
In Oregon, premises liability laws apply to both public and private properties, including retail stores, shopping malls, restaurants, apartment complexes, and private residences. Whether the property is owned by an individual, a business, or a public entity, the responsibility to maintain a safe environment remains the same.
To establish a premises liability claim in Oregon, the injured person must prove the following:
- The property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition that caused the accident.
- The property owner failed to take reasonable steps to address the dangerous condition or adequately warn visitors about its presence.
- The hazardous condition was the direct cause of the person's injuries.
The injured person’s own negligence can also affect their ability to recover damages in a premises liability claim.
Oregon follows modified comparative fault rules, which means that if the injured person is found to be partially at fault for the accident, their total damages may be reduced by their percentage of fault.
What to Do After a Slip & Fall Accident
In Portland, Oregon, the law is on your side, and you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and related expenses. Here’s what you need to know:
- Seek Medical Attention:
Your health and well-being should always be your top priority. After a slip and fall accident, it's crucial to seek immediate medical care, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not be apparent right away, and a medical professional can assess your condition and provide necessary treatment. - Document the Incident:
As soon as possible, gather evidence to support your claim. Take photos of the accident scene, including any hazards or dangerous conditions that caused your fall. If there were any witnesses, get their contact information. Report the incident to the property owner or manager and ask for a copy of the incident report or police report. - Consult with a Slip and Fall Attorney:
Navigating a slip and fall claim can be complicated, especially when dealing with insurance companies and legal proceedings. Consult with an experienced slip and fall attorney at Goldberg & Loren, who can guide you through the process of legal claims and protect your rights. We will evaluate your case, gather evidence, and negotiate on your behalf for the best settlement possible. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to initiate legal action. Consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet all necessary deadlines and protect your rights.
Have You Recently Suffered a Slip and Fall Injury and Are in Need of Legal Representation?
Look no further than Goldberg & Loren, the leading slip and fall attorneys in Portland. With years of experience and a proven track record of success, our personal injury attorneys are dedicated to fighting for your rights and getting you the compensation you deserve.
Don’t let your slip-and-fall injury go unnoticed or be taken lightly. By hiring Goldberg & Loren, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have a team of skilled attorneys on your side, ready to fight for your rights and hold those responsible accountable.
Contact Goldberg & Loren today to schedule a free consultation, and let us help you navigate the legal process. Don’t delay; your future and financial recovery depend on it.
Source
[1] Slips, Trips and Falls – National Safety Council. (n.d.). https://www.nsc.org/work-safety/safety-topics/slips-trips-falls
Goldberg & Loren Personal Injury Attorneys
6500 S Macadam Ave #300,
Portland, OR 97239
(971) 339-8080
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to a slip and fall or trip and fall accident you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. We can help!
We Represent Slip and Fall Accident Victims the Following Cities and Communities Near Portland, Oregon.
- Beaverton, OR
- Hillsboro, OR
- Vancouver, WA
- Clackamas County, OR
- Clark County, WA
- Columbia County, OR
- Multnomah County, OR
- Skamania County, WA
- Washington County, OR
- Skamania County, WA
- Yamhill County, OR
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