Legally Reviewed and Edited by: Terry Cochran

Published on: August 5, 2024

Being pregnant is an exciting and transformative time, but it also comes with challenges and risks. One concern many expecting mothers face is the possibility of a slip and fall accident.

Slip and fall accidents while pregnant can be alarming, as they not only put the mother at risk but also pose a danger to the unborn baby. Whether it’s a slip and fall at work while pregnant, in a store, or on a slippery sidewalk, knowing how to handle the situation and understand your rights is essential for your claim.

At Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C., we recognize the unique challenges pregnant women encounter in slip and fall incidents. Our skilled premises liability attorneys, including nurse attorney Eileen Kroll, will advocate for your legal rights and help secure the compensation and support you and your unborn child need.

The Increased Risk of Falls During Pregnancy

Many physical changes happen during pregnancy that can increase the likelihood of falls. As your pregnancy progresses, your center of gravity shifts, making it harder to maintain balance. This change, combined with the added weight and sometimes reduced visibility of your feet, increases the risk of a slip and fall at work while pregnant.

Even everyday activities like walking down stairs, stepping out of the shower, or navigating a wet floor can become risky as your balance is compromised. As your pregnancy advances, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings and take extra precautions to avoid a slip and fall incident, especially as your pregnancy advances.

What Happens If You Slip and Fall While Pregnant?

If you experience a slip and fall at work while pregnant, it can lead to injuries to you or your unborn child. These injuries and complications can include:

• Bruising or cuts. Minor falls can result in bruises or cuts, but if you hit a sharp or hard surface, these could become severe and need medical care.
• Sprains or fractures. Falling awkwardly can lead to sprained ankles or wrists or broken bones, complicating mobility and increasing discomfort during pregnancy.
• Abdominal injuries. A direct impact to your abdomen can cause internal bruising or bleeding, potentially reducing the baby’s oxygen and nutrient supply and increasing the risk of preterm labor.
• Placental abruption. A fall can detach the placenta from the uterus, depriving the baby of oxygen and nutrients and risking developmental problems or premature birth. For the mother, it can cause severe blood loss and serious health complications.
• Premature labor. The physical and emotional stress from a fall can induce premature labor, risking respiratory, digestive, and neurological complications for the baby and health risks for the mother.

The Legal Aspect: Understanding Your Rights

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall incident while pregnant, you may be entitled to compensation, especially if the fall was due to someone else’s negligence.

Property owners are responsible for maintaining a safe environment, and if they fail to address a dangerous condition that leads to your fall, they could be held liable.

Common examples of negligence:

• Unmarked wet or slippery floors during cleaning
• Cluttered pathways with boxes or equipment
• Poor lighting in hallways or stairwells
• Faulty stairs or unreliable handrails
• Uneven surfaces without warning signs
• Insufficient safety measures for fall prevention
• Icy entranceways without salt or sand treatment
• Poorly maintained parking lots with potholes or cracks
• Sidewalks in disrepair leading to trip hazards

If you fall at work, consult a personal injury attorney experienced in managing slip and fall cases involving pregnant women. Our experienced slip and fall attorneys at Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C. will guide you through the legal process, gather evidence, and pursue full compensation for all damages to you and your developing baby.

What To Do if You’re Injured in a Slip and Fall While Pregnant

If you’re injured in a slip and fall while pregnant, the most important thing is to prioritize your health and the health of your unborn baby. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t feel injured.

Your doctor can conduct a thorough physical examination and may order imaging tests like an ultrasound to ensure the well-being of your unborn child and check for any internal injuries. Depending on the specifics of the fall, additional tests such as blood work or a CT scan might be necessary to assess any less obvious damage.

This immediate and detailed medical evaluation creates a vital record of your condition following the accident. These medical records link your injuries directly to the fall, strengthening your claim if you seek compensation for the incident.

Once a doctor assesses your condition, focus on protecting your rights with the following steps:

• File an official report. Complete an official incident report at your workplace. Include details like the date, time, and circumstances of the fall, along with witness accounts, and get a copy for your records.
• Gather evidence. Secure any relevant information that could support your claim, such as photos of the accident site, witness statements, and detailed records of the conditions that led to the fall. Maintain a diary of your symptoms and medical visits post-accident to bolster your claim.
• Speak with an attorney. Consult a lawyer specializing in slip and fall cases. Our team has years of experience with slip and fall cases under complex circumstances. We will explain your rights and help you seek a fair recovery award for all economic and emotional damages.

How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

Managing your health and pregnancy after a slip and fall accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re concerned about the well-being of your unborn child. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court, if necessary, to secure the compensation you deserve.

Compensation in slip and fall cases can cover medical expenses, including the cost of emergency care and any ongoing treatment related to the fall. It may also include compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages if you’re unable to work, and any other financial losses resulting from the accident.

Eileen Kroll, a partner attorney and registered nurse at our firm, brings specialized expertise in birth injuries and medical malpractice. With her understanding of pregnancy and birth-related injuries, Eileen accurately calculates any damages for you and your unborn child, working to ensure you receive the maximum compensation.

Preventing Slip and Fall Accidents During Pregnancy

While not all slip and fall accidents can be prevented, you can take action to reduce your risk. Consider the following tips to help you stay safe during pregnancy:

• Wear appropriate footwear. Choose shoes with good traction and support to help maintain your balance on different surfaces.
• Be mindful of your environment. Pay attention to wet floors, uneven surfaces, and poorly lit areas. If something doesn’t look safe, take precautions or avoid the area.
• Use handrails and support. Stabilize yourself when walking on stairs or slippery surfaces with handrails or other supports.
• Take your time. Don’t rush, especially in potentially hazardous areas. Moving slowly and deliberately can help you maintain your balance.
• Stay active. Regular exercise during pregnancy can help improve your balance and strength, reducing your risk of falls. Light yoga or lower body strength-training routines are good options.
• Ask for help. Ask others for assistance when carrying heavy items or navigating difficult terrain. This allows you to hold on to handrails or focus on maintaining your center of gravity for better balance.

Protect Your Rights and Well-Being After a Slip and Fall at Work While Pregnant

Slip and fall at work while pregnant are serious matters that require prompt medical attention and, in many cases, legal guidance. The health and safety of you and your unborn child are the priority, but understanding your rights and knowing when to seek legal help is also crucial.

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall incident during pregnancy, reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney at our law firm. We can help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Our contingency fee basis means we only get paid if we win your case, so there is no financial risk to you to get started. Call our law firm today at 1-866-MICH-LAW and schedule your no-obligation, free case evaluation.

Disclaimer : The information provided is general and not for legal advice. The blogs are not intended to provide legal counsel and no attorney-client relationship is created nor intended.