The banana peel has become an amusing prop used in movies and TV. Slapstick comedies and cartoons often show characters slipping on a banana peel as a gag and a way to get a laugh. While those characters usually only suffer embarrassment and stand up without injury, an actual slip and fall in real life can be very serious.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year, over 800,000 people are hospitalized because they were injured in a fall. Additionally, the leading cause of ER visits in the U.S. is for falls. Because of Florida’s tourist industry, with its many amusement parks, theaters, and restaurants, slip and falls rank #1 for accidents in these facilities. To protect yourself from potential injury associated with slip and fall accidents, you should understand their causes and what steps to take if you’re hurt. .jpeg)
Common Causes and Locations of Slip and Falls
Unlike other states that deal with cold, wintry temperatures, Florida doesn’t usually see slip and fall accidents due to snow and ice. However, there are other causes of slip and falls that you should be aware of.
Why You Might Slip and Fall in Florida
- Poor lighting
- Wet or slippery surfaces
- Uneven surfaces or walkways
- Lack of handrails or railings on stairs
- Damaged flooring or carpeting
- Liquid spills on tile floors
- Loose cords or wires in walkways
- Objects left on the floor without warning signs posted around them
- Steps that aren’t maintained properly
Where You Might Slip and Fall
- Retail stores, shopping malls, and supermarkets
- Parking lots or garages
- Public buildings such as libraries, museums, schools, hotels, or hospitals
- Restaurants or bars
- Sidewalks outside homes or apartments
- Stairwells in buildings
- Recreational facilities such as waterparks or playgrounds
- Nursing homes
Steps to Take if You Are Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. You should also document and photograph your injuries if you can. Some other steps to take after a slip and fall accident include:
- Gather contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the incident happen.
- Obtain any photos or videos of the accident scene.
- Do not sign any paperwork provided by an insurance company before consulting with a lawyer about your rights as an injured victim.
- Contact a Florida slip and fall attorney as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help review your legal options for seeking compensation for medical bills and lost wages.
Contact Us
Whether you slip on a banana peel or are injured due to negligent building maintenance, contact Browning Law today for help. There are never any legal fees unless we win your case. To schedule an appointment, fill out our convenient online contact form, or call our office at 850-344-1736.
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