What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in a Parking Lot ?

Did you know that around 21% of all ER visits are a result of slip and fall accidents? According to the CDC and the National Safety Council, more than 8 million people end up in the ER after a slip and fall accident. Many of them occur in parking lots.

If you have had a slip and fall accident in a parking lot in Boston, then you should immediately contact a Boston personal injury attorney to help you get the compensation you deserve. 

Why are Slip and Fall Accidents in Parking Lots Common?

Parking lots are crowded places. They provide convenient access to stores, offices, and other establishments,  but they can also be hazardous and parking lot hazards can lead to slip-and-fall accidents. 

Slip and fall accidents can occur due to various reasons, such as wet surfaces, poor lighting, or uneven surfaces.

Below are some of the most common causes of slip-and-fall accidents in parking lots:

• Rain and Snow

One of the primary reasons why slip and fall accidents are common in parking lots is the presence of ice, snow, and rain. During winter or rainy seasons, parking lots can become slippery and this increases the risk of accidents. Additionally, parking lots may have poor drainage, which can result in standing water, creating a slippery surface.

• Poor Lighting 

Dimly lit parking lots can make it difficult to see potential hazards, such as potholes or uneven surfaces. This can cause individuals to trip, stumble, or fall, leading to severe injuries.

• Crowds

Parking lots are also often crowded, with cars and people constantly moving in different directions. In this environment, it’s easy to become distracted, lose focus, and not pay attention to where you’re walking, leading to accidents.

• Uneven Pavement

Parking lots are often not maintained with pedestrians in mind, unlike sidewalks, which are usually regulated with higher safety standards. This lack of attention to foot traffic can make it easy for people to miss potential hazards, such as cracks in the pavement, especially when they have their hands full with grocery bags or work gear. 

Unfortunately, this can lead to accidents that cause serious injuries, such as broken bones or sprains.

• Shopping Carts

Parking areas must be kept clear of obstacles and clutter to ensure the safety of pedestrians. However, many times, business owners do  not prioritize the maintenance of their outdoor premises, leading to hazards in parking lots. 

If you’ve been to a grocery store, you may have noticed shopping carts scattered throughout the parking lot, along with food waste, packaging, and garbage. These items create tripping hazards that increase the likelihood of pedestrians losing their footing and getting injured while walking to their car or to the building.

What are Common Slip and Fall Injuries in Parking Lots?

In parking lot slip and fall accidents, victims often make direct contact with hard and unyielding asphalt, leading to severe physical injuries. Some of the most commonly reported injuries among slip and fall accident victims in Boston include:

• Head and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Broken bones
• Torn ligaments and tendons
• Bruises
• Spinal cord injury

There are cases in which  people have even suffered paralysis or permanent disability after a slip and fall accident in a parking lot in Boston.

What Should You Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in a Parking Lot?

If you are involved in a slip and fall accident in a parking lot, it’s crucial to take certain steps to protect your health and legal rights. 

Here are some tips about  what you should do:

• Seek Medical Attention

Your first priority after a slip and fall accident should always be to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as head trauma or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. A doctor can diagnose any injuries and provide you with the necessary medical treatment.

• Report the Incident

Report the slip and fall accident to the property owner or manager as soon as possible. Make sure to document the date, time, and location of the incident and ask for a copy of the incident report.

• Contact an Attorney

If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, it’s important to contact an experienced Boston personal injury attorney. A lawyer can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of seeking compensation for your injuries.

Conclusion

Slip and fall accidents in parking lots can cause severe injuries, including head and traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, torn ligaments and tendons, bruises, and spinal cord injuries. 

Seeking medical attention and reporting the incident to the property owner or manager are critical steps to take after a slip and fall accident. Contacting an experienced Boston personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of seeking compensation for your injuries. 

Don’t hesitate to seek legal help if you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident in a parking lot.

FAQs

Question: How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer varies depending on several factors. Some personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.

Other lawyers may charge an hourly rate for their services. Discuss fees and payment arrangements with any potential  personal injury lawyer before hiring them.

Question: How Do I Find the Best Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me?

You can check online directories and read reviews from past clients. Schedule consultations with potential lawyers to assess their experience, expertise, and communication skills before choosing the one who meets your needs.

Question: How will a Personal Injury Attorney From Your Firm Help Me?

We investigate the incident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for your rights in court if necessary. Our goal is to ease the burden on you and provide you with the legal support you need to move forward.