4 common causes of slip-and-fall accidents
As you can imagine, a slip-and-fall accident can happen anywhere. However, depending on the conditions you find yourself in, you might end up with a higher chance of tripping or slipping and suffering a serious injury. This is why, in situations where property owners neglect to resolve issues that increase the chances of a slip-and-fall event, the property owners can be held liable for injuries that result.
One way property owners can help keep visitors safe is by understanding the four main reasons why slip-and-fall accidents happen:
- Slippery surfaces: Surfaces and floors can get slippery for many reasons. Perhaps the property owner didn’t sweep dust and dirt from the floor and it became slippery. Maybe the property owner didn’t use nonslip floor wax. Perhaps the floor was wet due to a spill, or maybe the surface became oily, icy, dusty or greasy. Any substance or condition on the floor that reduces traction could result in a slip.
- Loose and bumpy surfaces: Any walking surface that isn’t perfectly flat, but has bumps on it, could result in an unexpected fall. Similarly, a floor might have a loose rug or carpet that slips under someone’s foot resulting in a fall. Worn out wood floors and staircases also create serious fall hazards.
- Bad housekeeping: If someone doesn’t clean up cluttered walkways, organize cables and cords or keep boxes out of traffic areas, it can result in a trip or a fall, as well as serious and catastrophic injuries in some cases.
- Bad design: Sometimes properties are designed in ways that promote falls. Poor lighting, lack of handrails, insufficient signage and other issues can result in serious injuries.
Were you injured due to one of the situations described above? You may be able to file a lawsuit to seek personal injury damages relating to your injuries and the costs associated with your medical care.