When you are out and about in public, you are likely not thinking about the various ways that you could experience an injury. You probably do not view your activities as dangerous, and you may assume that you are perfectly safe. However, the risk of injury is present in every public place, often in the form of unseen and unmarked hazards. These things could increase the chance that you could suffer an injury in a slip-and-fall accident.
A slip-and-fall accident is often a relatively minor incident, perhaps causing bruising or scrapes. However, there are times when this event results in more serious damage, such as a traumatic brain injury. While rare, this type of fall could lead to grave injuries that could impact the rest of your life. People have the right to seek justice and a fair recovery if they are the victims of negligent maintenance or other preventable factors.
The extent of your injuries
Every person is different, but if you hit your head in the course of a slip-and-fall accident, you may experience a range of side effects that can include everything from headaches to memory loss. A traumatic brain injury can range in severity and impact, and it is important not to underestimate the potential impact of your injuries. Some of the dangerous property conditions that could contribute to the possibility of a serious slip-and-fall accident include:
- Unmarked slippery floors
- Oil or grease on the floor
- Loose carpeting or mats
- Loose boards
- Uneven surfaces or flooring pieces
- Debris or clutter
- Inadequate lighting
- Power cords
Any of these issues are easily preventable, and New Mexico property owners should strive to ensure that they are properly addressing anything that could lead to the harm of visitors, patrons and others. It is the responsibility of the property owner to properly mark hazards in situations in which a quick fix is not effective or possible.
Justice for accident victims
If you are the victim of a slip-and-fall accident that was the result of the reckless or negligent actions of another person, party or property owner, there are legal options available to you. One of these may include pursuing compensation through a civil claim. An assessment of your case can determine if this is the most appropriate way to move forward after suffering a traumatic brain injury in a fall.