Property Owners Can Be Held Responsible for Fall-Related Brain Injuries

In Las Vegas, slip and fall incidents occur frequently at casinos, hotels, and other establishments where visitors rely on property owners to maintain premises. However, when owners neglect to address these hazards, slip and falls can occur and result in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even a minor fall can lead to cognitive issues, chronic pain, and emotional turmoil.

Since March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, now is a good time to raise awareness about the serious consequences of fall-related TBIs. If you or a loved one suffered a head or brain injury in a Las Vegas slip and fall, it's important to understand your rights and consult an experienced lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process of recovering compensation for your losses.

How do fall-related brain injuries occur?

TBIs from falls can happen in different ways. Direct impact happens when the head hits the ground, a wall, or any other object, resulting in blunt force trauma. A strong blow can result in concussions, skull fractures, or internal bleeding.

Even if the head doesn’t actually contact anything, the effect of the fall can shake the brain. This is the situation where the sudden movement causes the brain to collide with the inside of the skull. The damage may not be visible but can lead to cognitive and neurological complications.

A lot of slip and fall incidents can be avoided by taking precautions and keeping the premises maintained as per the responsibility of property owners. Most slip and falls in Las Vegas are the result of:

• Slippery surfaces: Wet floors often catch people off guard, whether it's a drink spillage or a freshly cleaned surface without any warning signs in place.
• Tripping hazards: Uneven flooring, such as cracked sidewalks, loose carpets, or sudden changes in elevation, pose a risk. Additionally, cluttered walkways with wires and furniture out of place often lead to slips and falls.
• Poor lighting: Insufficient lighting can also pose safety risks in staircases, hallways, and parking areas where dim or malfunctioned lights hinder people from noticing potential dangers.
• Lack of handrails: The absence of handrails can be risky on stairs and elevated walkways, where people rely on them for support and stability.

Common fall-related brain injuries

Slip and falls can cause all sorts of brain injuries that need intensive therapy and care over a long period. One of the most common brain injuries is a concussion. While considered "mild," this type of TBI can cause dizziness, nausea, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating. Some concussions are temporary, while others can result in persistent cognitive dysfunction, especially repeat concussions.

More forceful falls can result in contusions, which are bruises on the brain itself. In some cases, operating and removing the affected part of the brain may be necessary. Hematomas, i.e., blood clots between the brain and the skull, can also develop. These clots press on the brain and may need urgent surgery to release the pressure.

In the worst case, a person can suffer from a diffuse axonal injury. This is brain damage that occurs when the brain moves violently within the skull, which can lead to permanent disability or even coma.

When is a property owner liable for a fall-related brain injury?

Under Nevada law, property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe for visitors. If they fail to do so, they can be held responsible for injuries that occur on their property.

A property owner may be liable if they knew about a hazardous condition and failed to fix it. For example, if a business owner was aware of a leaking pipe that caused a slippery floor but didn’t repair it, they can be held accountable. They can also be liable if they failed to warn visitors about dangers, such as not placing caution signs near a freshly mopped floor or a broken step.

Building code violations also lead to liability. The owner may be held responsible for any injuries if a property lacks required safety features such as handrails, proper lighting, or slip-resistant flooring.

What evidence can help prove liability in a slip and fall?

A strong case requires solid evidence. Some of the most critical pieces of proof include:

• Incident reports: If the fall happened in a business, an official report documenting the incident can help establish liability.
• Surveillance footage: Security cameras may have captured the fall and the hazardous condition that caused it.
• Photographs: Pictures of the scene, including any hazards and lack of warning signs, provide strong visual evidence.
• Witness statements: Testimonies from people who saw the accident or knew about the unsafe condition can strengthen the case.
• Medical records: Documentation from a doctor showing the extent of the brain injury helps prove your damages.

What compensation can I get for a fall-related TBI?

A brain injury can result in medical bills, lost income, and significant pain and suffering. If you suffered a TBI from a fall, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, and rehabilitation.
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity if the injury affects the ability to work.
• Pain and suffering, covering physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Long-term care costs, such as in-home nursing, therapy, or assisted living if necessary.

Get help from a trusted Las Vegas slip and fall lawyer today

If you or a loved one suffered a brain injury in a slip and fall accident, Lasso Injury Law is ready to fight for you. Since 2003, we have been dedicated to helping injury victims in Las Vegas recover the compensation they deserve. Attorney Al Lasso has a proven record of success, including a $16.4 million verdict, the largest slip and fall verdict in U.S. history.

Our legal team conducts thorough investigations, gathers evidence, and takes an aggressive stance against insurance companies that try to deny your claim. We handle cases involving injuries in casinos, hotels, restaurants, and other properties throughout Las Vegas on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Your initial consultation is free, and we are here to answer your questions and help you understand your legal options. Contact us online or call us today to get started.

“Seriously, I have to give it up to Al & Christine. Day in & day out, they worked around the clock to make sure my case was handled properly. They performed beyond my expectations & God forbid I'm ever injured again, but if it happens, I'm calling Al!” – G.P., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐