What conditions are likely to cause a slip-and-fall accident?

As any California resident knows, sometimes accidents just happen. This could occur because one is clumsy, careless or even negligent. However, other times accidents occur because another party is negligent. This unfortunately could be the case when you enter the property of another. Whether it is public or private property, a property owner could be held liable for a slip-and-fall accident that results in injury.

What conditions are likely to cause a slip-and-fall accident? With regards to public places, a slip-and-fall incident could occur for a wide variety of reasons. These are often due to hazards or dangerous conditions inside the building such as a wet floor, improperly waxed floors, torn carpet or a bulging rug or carpet. Dangerous conditions can also exist outside a building but still on the property. This could include weather conditions not addressed such as snow and ice. A slip-and-fall accident could also occur due to inadequate lighting or the poor maintenance of a parking lot or sidewalk.

It should be noted that when a slip-and-fall accident occurs, the property owner is not automatically liable because the accident took place on the premises. Liability is based on the property owner's duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions and whether he or she knew or should have known of the dangerous condition that led to the slip-and fall accident.

If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, it is important to understand your rights and options. In cases where negligence and liability of a property owner is at question, a premises liability suit could help an injured party hold a negligent property owner liable while also helping with the collection of compensation for losses and damages suffered.