While slipping and falling may not result in an injury for most young people, falling can be much more severe for people 65 and older. In fact, falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries for older adults according to the Centers for Disease Control.
We understand how premises liability works in slip and fall injuries and have helped many of our clients with their claims.
What causes an increased risk for the elderly?
As you age, changes take place in your body that can make it more difficult to do simple tasks. For example, your eyesight may not be as good as it once was. You may find it hard to walk or balance yourself properly without a walking aid. Even medicines can contribute to poor balance. Additionally, bones become more brittle and more likely to break as you age, making it much more dangerous.
When is an accident the fault of the property owner?
If you slip and fall in a location other than your home, the property owner could be responsible for the accident. Slip and fall cases can seem complicated, but property owners must keep their locations reasonably safe for the public. For example, if you slip and fall in a grocery store, there may have been something that the owner could have done to prevent your accident. If someone mops the floor but forgets to put up a sign to warn that it is slippery, this would not be a reasonably safe environment.
In Pennsylvania, more than one party may share liability for your injury. More information about this topic is available on our website.
