Slip and fall accidents are one of the most common causes of injuries among personal injuries within the U.S., and result in thousands of people into the emergency department every year. Though seemingly simple accidents, slip and fall incidents have most likely been caused by hazardous conditions on the property, which a property owner must have prevented. A fall in a grocery store, apartment complex, or public sidewalk may find its cause, in turn, in the determination of liability and the protection of your rights.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents on Public and Private Property
1. Wet or Slippery Surfaces
Wet floors rank as one of the foremost hazards of slipping and falling injuries. Spilled drinks may be only the beginning of other cleansing residues, leaks, or rain tracked in. The duty of property owners or managers is to promptly clean up a spill and also place visible signs to warn visitors that it is a “wet floor.”
Prevention:
Primarily, inspection and maintenance are required, which solves most of these cases. For the public property, removal of snow and ice is highly needed for safety purposes.
2. Uneven or Damaged Flooring
Unbalanced surfaces, loose tiles, frayed carpets, and cleaved sidewalks account for dangerous trips and falls. Deficiencies in flooring are mainly present in older buildings, but still pose a preventable risk.
Prevention:
Routine Inspection and immediate repairs are essential. Immediate repair should be made by property owners regarding these problems or at least indicated to the point where they lie until made repairs.
3. Poor Lighting
Poor illumination in hallways, stairwells, or parking lots may cause difficulties for people to see obstacles or changes in elevation. Poor visibility at night increases the risk of falling even more greatly.
Prevention:
Install proper lighting and check bulbs and fittings.
4. Clutter and Obstacles
Boxes, cords, trash, or other types of objects that are in the way can easily cause a fall. Such hazards can be found in retail environments, warehouses, and even in apartment hallways.
Prevention: Clear walkways and have a consistent housekeeping practice, for clear passageways may reduce risk. Training staff to keep areas accessible to the public and clear of clutter can dramatically reduce risk.
5. Unsafe Stairs and Handrails
Broken stairs or missing handrails, or stairs with different heights, can present real dangers. Falls on steps often result in very serious injuries like fractures or head trauma.
Prevention: Regular inspection and repair of stairways and railings are essential for normal building safety codes and the protection of visitors.
This article was written by Alla Tenina. Alla is one of the best tax attorneys in Los Angeles, California, and the founder of Tenina Law. She has experience in bankruptcies, real estate planning, and complex tax matters. Click here for more information. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. This website contains links to other third-party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser; the ABA and its members do not recommend or endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
