While many associate slip and fall accidents with icy winter sidewalks, summer in British Columbia presents its own set of hazards. Wet floors in shopping malls from beachgoers, spills at outdoor festivals, slippery surfaces around pools, and uneven or poorly maintained walkways in parks and public spaces are common culprits during the warmer months. These hazards can lead to serious injuries, including sprains, fractures, or concussions, especially for the elderly or those with mobility issues. Property owners and occupiers have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe year-round, and failing to do so could result in liability.
The British Columbia Occupiers Liability Act
The British Columbia Occupiers Liability Act (OLA) explains the responsibilities of property owners and occupiers concerning visitors to their premises. A property owner or occupier can include businesses, individuals, municipalities, or anyone who has control over the condition of a premises, the activities conducted on it, or who has responsibility for allowing people to enter.
The OLA indicates that occupiers are responsible for taking reasonable steps to prevent people from becoming injured on their property. Reasonable steps include: maintaining clean and dry walking surfaces, repairing broken stairs or uneven pathways, posting warning signs around known hazards, conducting regular inspections, and promptly addressing any safety concerns that arise.
Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip and fall accidents during the summer in British Columbia can occur in many settings, such as around swimming pools, on wet marina docks, uneven patio stones, or at crowded outdoor events. These accidents can lead to a variety of injuries, some of which may have long-term consequences. Common summer slip and fall injuries include:
- Sprained ankles or wrists
- Bruising and soft tissue damage
- Cuts and abrasions
- Broken bones (especially in the wrist, hip, or ankle)
- Concussions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
Even falls that seem minor at first can result in significant medical issues, particularly for older adults or those with existing health concerns.
How to Avoid a Slip and Fall Injury
Preventing slip and fall accidents during the summer starts with awareness and caution, whether you’re a property owner or simply out enjoying the season. Pay close attention to your surroundings. Watch for wet or uneven surfaces, loose gravel, or tripping hazards like hoses or cords at outdoor events. Wear appropriate footwear with good grip, especially around pools or waterparks.
Property owners should regularly inspect and maintain walkways, patios, and entrances, keeping them clear of debris and properly marked if slippery or damaged. Posting warning signs near known hazards and cleaning up spills promptly are also key steps. Taking these simple precautions can go a long way in preventing unnecessary injuries.
Determining Negligence
If you are injured after slipping and falling, determining negligence involves assessing whether the property owner or occupier failed to take reasonable steps to keep the premises safe. To establish negligence, it must be shown that a hazard existed, the occupier knew or should have known about it, and failed to address it in a timely manner.
If you’re injured in a slip and fall, you can help your case by documenting the scene by taking photos or videos of the hazard, gathering contact information from witnesses, and reporting the incident to the property owner or manager. Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor, as records will support your claim. The next steps typically involve speaking with a personal injury lawyer who can evaluate the circumstances, determine if negligence occurred, and guide you through the process of filing a claim for compensation.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
A personal injury lawyer with knowledge of slip and fall matters can be instrumental in helping victims of these kinds of accidents navigate the legal process. They can assess whether a property owner was negligent, gather crucial evidence like witness statements or surveillance footage, and handle negotiations with insurance companies. With a lawyer’s help, injured individuals can pursue fair compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Our team has decades of personal injury experience and a proven track record of successfully representing clients in slip and fall cases across British Columbia. We’re here to advocate for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. If you have any questions about slip and falls, or any other personal injury matter, don’t hesitate to contact us.