What Is The Difference Between A Slip And Fall & Trip And Fall Accident?

The last thing you should have to worry about when you go on to another person’s property is that you will get injured. However, there are times when the careless or negligent actions of a property owner allow for hazards that can create slip or trip incidents. At the Dan Doyle Law Group, we want to discuss the difference between a “slip and fall” accident and a “trip and fall” accident. While this may seem like a minor distinction, there are some key differences between the two.

Similar results, different causes

In many cases, you will see the terms “slip and fall” and “trip and fall” used interchangeably. In most instances, it is okay to use either term. However, when it comes to a premises liability lawsuit, it is important to use words wisely. There is a difference between the two mechanisms of injury.

Understanding a slip and fall incident

Slip and fall incidents are going to revolve around a person slipping on a substance that makes the floor unsafe. This will be caused by loss of traction between a person’s footwear and the walking surface. For example, suppose a person is walking down a local grocery store aisle, but there is a broken jar of pickles that they do not notice. While this person is looking for relish, they unintentionally step into the pickle juice, which causes their leg to hyperextend, and they subsequently fall to the floor and break their arm. This is an example of a slip and fall accident.

Some of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents include:

• Spilt liquids on the floor that have not been cleaned
• No “wet floor” sign after mopping
• Wet entrances on rainy or snowy days
• Loose flooring material

Understanding a trip and fall incident

A trip and fall accident is going to be a little different. Returning to our grocery store scenario, suppose there is no broken jar of pickles. Now, there is an extension cord going across a grocery store aisle leading to the floor buffer an employee is using in another aisle. Suppose a shopper fails to notice this cord while looking for their relish, and the cord catches their feet, causing them to fall and break their arm. This is an example of a trip and fall accident.

Some of the common causes of trip and fall accidents include:

• Merchandise that has fallen off the shelves
• Cords running across the floor
• Low-lying obstacles, such as boxes, cleaning supplies, etc.

Our team is ready to help you today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall or trip and fall accident, speak to a qualified attorney immediately. At the Dan Doyle Law Group, our knowledgeable and experienced team will investigate all aspects of your case to secure the compensation you deserve. This could include:

• Coverage of all medical bills related to the fall
• Any lost income and benefits you incur
• General household expenses
• Physical therapy costs
• Pain and suffering damages

If you need a Philadelphia slip and fall accident attorney, you can contact us by clicking here or calling 215-987-3730 for a free consultation.