The warm sun draws people out to enjoy the beach. Too many of them, however, have their beach vacation ruined by a hazardous condition that causes serious injuries.
People often think of sharks and rip tides when they think of dangers at the beach, but they overlook one of the most common sources of injury—slip and fall accidents. Sometimes a fall damages nothing more than your ego, but unfortunately, the consequences are much more severe in many cases.
Visitors and residents alike find that a beach slip and fall lawyer can help determine whether someone’s negligent action was the cause of their fall and fight to get them fair compensation for their injuries. But if you know what to watch for, you can help prevent falls and keep from losing your health and your precious vacation time.
Common Reasons for Slip and Fall Accidents at the Fort Lauderdale Beaches
The relaxing vibe at the beach masks a situation that has more than usual hazards. Sand and water may not seem too problematic on their own, but when you add them to a tile floor or wooden boardwalk, they create unusually slippery surfaces that can easily lead to a fall. A beach injury lawyer lawyer frequently sees slip and fall accidents caused by circumstances such as:
- Water or sand on the ground in the outside seating area of a restaurant
- Swimming pool decks made from unsuitably slippery material
- Weeds, algae or moss on the floor of an outdoor shower
- Nails protruding from floorboards
- Composite surfaces warped from wear or improper installation
- Split, broken, or rotting boards on a boardwalk, walkway, or stairs
- Spilled food or drinks
- Uneven walking surfaces that cause people to trip
Surfaces of floors and furniture at the beach are subject to severe wear and tear from the elements and users. Additionally, those who provide facilities for guests and profit from their visits are aware of the need to inspect and replace or repair parts frequently. That said, when they fail to act responsibly, they can and should be held accountable.
Types of Injuries Caused by Slip and Fall Accidents at the Beach
Fall injuries often appear minor at first but can later turn out to be serious. When someone falls, particularly in a place as public as the beach, the adrenaline from the situation can mask symptoms of their injuries. Moreover, many serious injuries such as internal bleeding and traumatic brain injuries are not immediately apparent. A beach slip and fall lawyer knows it is crucial for anyone injured in a fall to receive a prompt and thorough medical exam to detect hidden injuries.
Injuries common after a slip and fall accident include:
- Broken bones
- Back injuries
- Sprains
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Torn tendons
- Spinal cord injuries
While many injuries will heal with proper medical treatment and a considerable amount of time, the accident victim may be unable to work or perform routine living functions. Expenses for medical care, help with basic tasks and other needs swallow up valuable resources at a time when the victim is unable to work to cover the costs. Rehabilitation can take years, and the victim may never be able to do some of the same activities they used to enjoy before the fall. It is only fair to require someone else to cover some of the expense when their negligence caused the fall.
A Beach Slip and Fall Lawyer Can Help Find Out Who’s Responsible for the Accident
In many cases, the owner of the property where the slip and fall incident occurred may be held liable for injuries under the theory of premises liability. This legal doctrine requires property owners to protect guests they invite onto their property from hazardous conditions. When a business is open for customers, they are considered to be invited onto the property for the benefit of the owner. That owner and others responsible for maintaining the premises have a duty to repair or warn about dangers and inspect regularly for potential problems.
It is important to collect evidence to show the factors that contributed to the cause of a beach fall. For instance, having a photo of rotten boards or a witness who can testify that they told a restaurant manager about a spilled drink an hour ago but no one cleaned it up could prove very helpful in demonstrating liability. Evidence is most available right after a fall, so it is a good idea to consult a knowledgeable beach slip and fall lawyer right away for assistance with gathering and preserving evidence. If the fall occurred on public property, your time for taking action can be quite limited.
Contact The Maus Law Firm Today to Get the Help You Need
When you take action against a property owner, manager, or another party who allowed a dangerous condition to cause your injuries, you not only protect yourself and your family but also help provide a safer environment for others who come to the beach. Property owners need to understand the importance of the duties they owe to the public.
To learn more about how an experienced beach slip and fall lawyer can help you recover compensation for your expenses, pain and suffering, and other effects, contact the dedicated legal team at Maus Law Firm today for a free consultation.