We have all done it: walking down the street, texting or scrolling through social media, or just watching a video on our phones. Perhaps we do it a lot these days in such an increasingly interconnected world where distracted walking has now become part of our regular lives. However, no one else really knows how dreadful slip and fall accidents this harmless habit could lead to.
If you ever get into a slip and fall accident, you can speak to Karnas Law Firm who can guide you through the legal procedure and ensure you get compensation.
How could distracted walking affect slip and fall accident claims?
Distracted walking can really impact your slip and fall accident case in Arizona. Arizona follows comparative negligence law.
Under this law, you would pay a reduction according to the percentage of your contribution to the accident. In general, it should be noted that if you were 50% or more culpable for the accident, you would probably receive no compensation at all.
Consider this example: Walking down the sidewalk lost in the text on your phone, you do not notice what is clearly in your way ahead. You trip, fall, and are hurt. The property owner may argue that your distraction greatly contributed to the accident. This may limit your recovery or possibly even prevent your damages.
Comparative Negligence in Arizona
Arizona follows the rule of comparative negligence, which means:
- Your award could be less if the level of your fault is decided.
- You are awarded nothing in situations where you are more than 50% responsible.
For example, if the owner of a property happened to catch a glimpse of you texting your way down the sidewalk, the apparent hazard you tripped over kept him or her from suing you as well, solely for that accident. Still, they did use it to try to prove that you were at least partially responsible for your injuries.
Documentation Challenges
Distracted walking can complicate the documentation of your accident:
- Security cameras might show you looking at your phone
- Witnesses may testify about your distracted state
- Your phone records could be used as evidence
Impact on Premises Liability
Property owners in Arizona have certain responsibilities:
- Maintaining safe premises
- Warning visitors about potential hazards
- Regular property inspections
However, your distraction can affect how these responsibilities are viewed in court.
Possible Injuries from Distracted Walking Accidents
Not paying attention to the environment one is in, you could suffer from very minor scrapes or sometimes life-altering injuries. It means that understanding the types of injuries that could result from distracted walking is crucial for Arizona residents.
Minor Injuries
Even seemingly minor injuries can impact your daily life:
- Sprains and Strains
- Bruises and Contusions
- Cuts and Abrasions
Moderate Injuries
These injuries often require medical attention and can affect your ability to work:
- Fractures and Broken Bones
- Knee Injuries
- Concussions
Severe Injuries
These life-altering injuries can have long-term or permanent effects:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Internal Injuries
Long-Term Complications
- Some injuries can lead to ongoing issues:
- Chronic Pain
- Psychological Impact
Seek Professional Assistance From a Lawyer!
After sliding and falling in Arizona, among the issues you ought to be most concerned about is seeking legal representation. A proficient attorney specializing in personal injury litigation has irreplaceable knowledge of the field, which will help you in your case as you take the necessary steps to deal with complicated legal implications that arise after such accidents.
From all sides, your lawyer will analyze your case with all the factors taken into consideration, like the place where walking might have diverted attention due to the accident; they will handle the procedures related to law, which sometimes could be unbearable for accident victims, and you can therefore concentrate on recovery while your lawyer handles the paperwork and deadline besides communicating with insurance companies.
