Each year, approximately 1 million people go to the emergency room because of injuries from slip and fall accidents. The injuries from these accidents range from minor scratches and bruises, to broken bones, head and spinal cord trauma, and even death. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), slip, trip and fall accidents account for about 15% of all accidental deaths.
Just as the type of slip and fall injuries vary, so do the causes of slip and fall accidents. Review these three most common causes of slip and fall accidents, to help reduce your risk of injury from a slip and fall accident.
Poor Surface Conditions
Whether walking across a floor or pavement, poor surface conditions can cause slip and fall accidents. Such conditions include:
- Loose floorboards, rugs or mats
- Torn carpeting
- Parking lot potholes
- Cracked sidewalks
- Recently waxed or mopped floors
- Spilled liquids, grease or oil
- Uneven surfaces (floors or pavement) with no warning signs
- Unsalted icy surface
Environmental Conditions
A walking surface could be perfect, but if problems exist in the surrounding environment, it could cause slip and fall hazards. Hazardous environmental conditions include:
- Debris or cords on the floor
- Open drawers and doors
- Poor lighting makes it difficult to see any obstacles
- Bright lighting that may reflect on a shiny floor and cause a glare
- Transitioning from one type of surface to another without warning
Unsafe Ladders and Stairways
Slip and fall accidents caused by using unsafe ladders and stairs can lead to some of the most severe slip and fall injuries. Unsafe conditions could include:
- Not securing a ladder while in use
- Using a chair or something else to stand on instead of a ladder
- Lack of handrails or not using a handrail
- Worn or warped steps
- Debris and trash on stairs
- Rushing while taking the stairs or taking more than one step at a time
Slip and Fall Accident Liability
Most slip and fall accidents are preventable with proper care and attention. However, many businesses and property owners fail to prevent hazardous conditions that could lead to slip and fall accidents. If neglecting to provide safe conditions, businesses and property owners can be held liable if someone gets injured in a slip and fall accident while on their property.
If you have received injuries from a slip and fall accident because of someone’s negligence, you could be eligible for compensation. Property liability claims can be complex. The burden of proof lies with the injured party, and property owners will have insurance companies that will try to make things difficult. You may need the help of an experienced personal injury attorney to help fight for your rights.
Brock & Stout’s personal injury attorneys of over 26 years of experience helping clients receive compensation for slip and fall injuries. Contact us for a free evaluation to see if we can help you.