May 8 2023 | Zayouna Admin

Different Types of Slip and Fall Accidents in Burlington

When you think of a devastating accident, your mind might go to thoughts of car accidents, severe storms, or recreational incidents like skiing collisions or climbing falls. But what about a simple slip on a wet floor in a grocery store or on an icy sidewalk? 

The unfortunate reality is that slip and fall accidents are up there with motor vehicle collisions as one of the leading causes of injury for Canadians. Unintentional falls account for roughly one-third of emergency department visits in Canada.

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere from sidewalks to department stores to private homes. A simple slip can lead to serious injury resulting in expensive medical bills, loss of wages, and of course, a long stressful recovery period. 

In Ontario, property owners are legally responsible for providing an environment free of fall hazards. Understanding the different types of slip and fall accidents in Burlington can help Burlington property owners and residents take steps to protect themselves and others from injury. 

Common Types of Slip and Fall Accidents in Burlington

Slips, trips, and falls can be caused by countless specific hazards. Sometimes these falls are the result of partaking in high-risk activity, inattention, or carelessness. In many cases, though, slip and fall accidents are ultimately the result of negligence on the part of the property owner or manager. 

The common causes of slip and fall accidents can be categorized by the hazard and type of fall it causes. Slip and fall accidents can either be same-level accidents or falls from height. Roughly 70% of falls are on the same level. Falls from height, though less common, tend to result in more severe injury.

Slips

Slips are typically caused by some loss of traction on the floor’s surface. Common causes of slips include:

• Wet or greasy floors
• Icy or snowy surfaces
• Spills
• Unsecured floorings like mats, carpeting, or covering
• Wearing improper footwear

Trips

Trips, on the other hand, are usually caused by some obstruction in a walking path that causes someone to lose their footing. Some common causes of trips are:

• Poor lighting
• Debris in the walkway
• Lack of support railings 
• Protruding objecting
• Uneven surfaces
• Disrupted view of the path

Falls

Slips and trips can be broadly categorized as types of falls. Most slips and trips happen on the same level of surface. While slips and trips may cause a fall from height, these are more common when working or engaged in an activity at height. 

Accidents involving ladders, stairwells, or roofs are some of the most common causes of falls from heights. Many falls from heights can be prevented by diligently following safe practices when using a ladder, accessing elevated surfaces, or otherwise working at heights. 

Common Slip and Fall Injuries in Burlington 

Slip and fall accidents can result in a wide variety of injuries, from small bruises to severe brain injury. Here are some of the most common slip and fall injuries:

• Soft tissue injuries: Sprains and strains are some of the most common injuries, and can take an unfortunately long time to heal, depending on severity.

• Fractures: Upper and lower limb fractures are particularly common in slip and fall accidents, especially in older adults whose bones tend to be more fragile, making them more vulnerable to severe fractures of bones like the femur or pelvis.

• Back and neck injury: Any pain in the neck or back after a fall should be taken seriously. Spinal cord injuries are no joke, but they are not the only injury that can be debilitating. Whiplash, herniated discs, and ligament sprains can all be caused by a fall.

• Head and brain trauma: Things like concussions are caused by sudden movements or collisions of the head and can result in serious long-term health complications.

Slip and fall accidents can affect anyone. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, about 70% of emergency room visits for fall accidents are by people under 65 years old, but around 70% of fall-related hospital stays are in citizens older than 65. Some injuries can have an insidious onset, so you should seek out medical attention right away if there is any pain or discomfort after a fall. 

Notice and Limitation Periods

If you are involved in a slip-and-fall accident on private property, be sure to give notice to the property owner right away. There are specific time restraints around when you must notify the property owner of an accident if you intend to file a legal claim for the incident. In some cases, this notice period is as short as 10 days after the accident.

Similarly, different slip and fall accidents can have time restraints for how long after the incident you can file a legal claim. The limitation period is typically two years after the accident for most slip and fall claims, but may differ depending on the case. 

Notice and limitation periods are just one reason why you should contact a slip and fall lawyer right away after an injury.

When to Contact a Slip and Fall Lawyer

Property owners have a duty of care to anyone who visits their property. This includes maintaining a space free of slip and fall hazards. Failing to uphold this duty of care is a form of negligence. If you or a loved one was injured in a slip and fall accident that you believe was caused by the negligence of the property owner, you should contact a slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible.

An experienced Burlington slip and fall lawyer will assess your specific case and help you understand your options under Ontario law. They will explain any notice or limitation periods, help you gather and submit evidence for your case, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and represent you in court, if necessary. 

Book a Consultation with a Burlington Slip and Fall Lawyer 

At Zayouna Law Firm, our lawyers have decades of experience representing clients in slip and fall cases. We offer a free initial consultation where you can meet with a lawyer to discuss your case, explore your options, and plan the next steps. Contact us today to book your free consultation.