Slip and fall injuries in public transportation are an unfortunate reality that can happen at any time to anyone, resulting in both physical and emotional trauma as well as financial burdens for victims. Here, we discuss the causes of slip-and-fall injuries in public transportation as well as potential outcomes and what you should do if injured.
Causes
Slip and fall injuries in public transportation may be due to many different causes, including:
Slippery or wet floors: Slip and fall injuries on public transportation are one of the leading causes of injuries caused by wet or slippery floors, such as those created by spills, rainwater run-off, snow accumulation, or ice formation. These issues can often result in accidents.
Uneven surfaces in public transportation such as steps, ramps, or potholes can lead to accidents by tripping and slipping hazards that result in injuries to passengers.
Poor lighting: Low light levels on public transportation can make it more difficult to detect potential dangers or obstacles, increasing the risk of slip and fall injuries and leading to slip-and-fall incidents.
Negligent maintenance: Public transportation vehicles and facilities require regular maintenance to ensure passenger safety, but negligent practices such as failing to repair broken handrails or stairs could result in accidents.
Injuries
Slip and fall accidents on public transport can range from minor to serious injuries, with some of the more prevalent examples including:
Fractures: Slip and fall injuries may lead to bone fractures that require extensive medical treatment, which can be both painful and costly.
Traumatic Brain Injuries: Slip and fall injuries can result in head traumas, including traumatic brain injuries that have long-term implications on cognitive and physical capabilities.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Slip and fall injuries can also result in spinal cord injuries, which may cause paralysis and long-term disabilities such as paraplegia.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Slip and fall accidents often result in soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains that limit mobility and cause chronic discomfort.
What to Do if You Were Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident on Public Transportation
If you have been involved in a slip-and-fall incident while using public transport, here are some steps you should follow:
Promptly seek medical attention: Following any accident, it is crucial that you seek medical advice as soon as possible in order to assess the extent of the injuries and receive proper treatment.
Report the Incident: Submit your accident report immediately to the relevant transportation company/authority and be sure to get a copy.
Document the Accident: Take pictures of the scene, including any potential hazards that caused your fall, in order to document this incident for later legal actions if desired. Having this documentation will aid any possible litigation efforts against those responsible.
Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer: Speak with a personal injury lawyer about your legal options and to see if compensation might be available to you.
Slip and fall injuries in public transportation can have devastating physical and emotional repercussions as well as financial burdens. Therefore, taking proactive steps to prevent these accidents by maintaining transportation vehicles and facilities properly is imperative to their prevention. If injured in such an incident on public transit, seek medical attention immediately, report it immediately, document everything about the incident as much as possible, and consult a personal injury lawyer regarding potential legal options.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to someone else’s carelessness or fault, Darfoor Law Firm is here to provide support and suggest the best course of action.
Accidents can be difficult to deal with; that is why having someone who understands and empathizes is so important.
Call us at +1-833-DARFOOR for a complimentary consultation and case evaluation.
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