We often think of our children as pretty resilient, especially when it comes to slips and falls. But falls are the leading cause of nonfatal injury in children, making up 8,000 visits to the hospital each year. However, serious or life-threatening injuries from falls aren’t at all uncommon.
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What are the 5 Common Causes for Slip and Fall Accidents?
If you’re a parent or daycare center, it’s your duty to maintain your property in a safe condition, which includes repairing hazardous conditions or removing dangers immediately. In cases where you can’t remove or repair your property, you must post a warning sign in clear view.
Like adults, children can slip and fall due to spills, debris, uneven flooring, slippery floors, bad lighting, broken stairs, or cracks. Children are most likely to get hurt in specific locations, like:
- Playground: It’s possible to fall from great heights when on the playground.
- Camps: Dangerous conditions or activities could hurt unsupervised children.
- Schools: Unwatchful teachers or daycare staff may be too distracted to stop a fall.
- Sports: Equipment or fields that aren’t well maintained could cause a fall.
- Cycling: Nearly 254,000 children are injured as a result of bike accidents.
If you can prove negligence on behalf of the person or organization who looked after your child, you may be able to file a slip and fall claim. If you live in Chicago, you can contact one of Abels & Annes experienced slip and fall accident lawyers who can help you reach a fair settlement.
How Can Parents Prevent Slips and Falls?
Slips and falls can happen anywhere and at any time, but if you have some control over the situation, there are ways to prevent them. Here are some tips any parent can use:
- Don’t leave children alone while they’re on the bed or on other furniture.
- Childproof against slips and falls, such as using gates on stairs.
- Strap children into high chairs, changing tables, and shopping carts.
- Teach children to wear protective gear when playing sports.
These tips are also necessary after your child experiences a fall to prevent a worse injury.
What Should Parents Do Immediately After a Slip and Fall?
If your child fell on public property, you should do the following, even if you don’t file a claim:
- Report the accident to the owner of the premise.
- If they aren’t available, send a letter to the business.
- Get the names of witnesses, if there were any.
- Take pictures of the accident scene or ask for camera footage.
- Seek medical treatment for your child.
- Explain how your child got hurt to the medical professional.
- Fill out an accident report form.
- Avoid giving a recorded statement.
- Attend scheduled medical treatments.
- Find a lawyer who can take your case.
Whether your child was injured inside a shopping center or a park, you can avoid a negligence claim if you follow the appropriate steps. Keep in mind that children under seven (in most states) can’t be found negligent, as they lack experience and have a limited ability to navigate dangers.
When Should You Consult an Expert Slip and Fall Lawyer?
You should contact a slip and fall lawyer immediately after your child receives medical attention for their injuries (a day or two). If you wait too long, your lawyer may not be able to file a petition with the court to obtain approval of a settlement, and you might not have grounds to sue.
Parents have two options when they file a slip and fall claim: settlement and litigation. A parent can receive a settlement from an insurer if they don’t want to go to court. However, parents will receive a higher compensation package for their child if they’re able to win inside a courtroom.
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