Unintentional falls are one of the leading causes of accidental death and lead to countless injuries each year. These accidents can take place anywhere, from private homes to grocery stores to public lands, and they are almost always the result of unresolved hazards.
Some of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents include:
Surface Conditions
Wet and uneven walking conditions are the most common cause of slip and fall accidents. These conditions may be the result of:
- Mopping and waxing
- Snow, ice, and wet weather
- Spills
- Leaks
- Moisture collection
- Loose floorboards, rugs, or mats
- Worn-out carpeting
- Trash or debris on the floor
- Clutter
- Stray cords and electrical wires
- Defective sidewalks
- Potholes in parking lots
Even when surfaces are pristine, however, slips, trips, and falls can still occur. Sometimes, poor design leads to narrow or cluttered aisles, or an open desk or cabinet drawer presents a hazard.
Lighting
If you cannot see where you’re going, you’re more likely to slip or trip over something and fall. Still, inadequate lighting is not the only lighting-related cause of slip and fall accidents. Too much lighting can cause glare on shiny floors, and as we mentioned above, unsecured wiring can easily create dangerous conditions.
Stairs and Handrails
Falling down the stairs can be catastrophic, and these types of falls typically occur when stairs are cracked or broken – or as a result of defective handrails. People also sustain injuries when steep staircases or walkways do not have handrails, in the first place.
Special Situations
Older adults are especially prone to falls, so nursing homes must take fall prevention seriously. Any failure to do so could represent nursing home neglect.
Similarly, employers must prioritize workplace safety and provide special training to prevent slip and fall accidents. Falls are prevalent amongst construction workers, chefs, kitchen workers, housekeepers, custodial staff, and factory workers. If an employee falls at work, workers’ compensation may cover their medical bills and missed wages.
Filing a Lawsuit
When you get hurt on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation. For a successful slip and fall lawsuit, you must show that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition on their premises and that they failed to warn you or remedy the situation.
If you are wondering whether or not you have a case, you can always contact Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC for a free consultation.
We are ready to discuss your rights and legal options at (843) 968-0886 or you can get started online – don’t forget to ask about your free case review!