Slip and Fall Risks
Posted on May 21st, 2018 by Oddo & Babat, P.C.
According to statistics from the federal government, more than one million people end up at the hospital every year because of a slip and fall accident. Injuries can range from bruising to cuts to fractures to brain injuries. In some cases, the victim is killed in the slip and fall accident.
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere a hazardous condition exists. There are several common hazards that we see over and over again when we meet with victims who have been injured in this type of accident. Some of the more common dangers include:
Liquids or other Contaminants on Floors
When a liquid is spilled on the floor or other surface, it is critical to clean it up right away because these spills pose a large risk to anyone walking on the surface of slipping and falling. In many cases, it is nearly impossible to detect liquid on the floor. When a business has recently cleaned floors or cleaned up a spill, employees should always put out warning signs to alert others that the floor is wet and could be slippery.
Poor or Inadequate Lighting
Outdoor walkways and stairways can be especially hard to navigate at night if there is inadequate lighting. This is also true for stairways and hallways inside buildings, as well. If an area is poorly lit, there is a greater risk of a person slipping and falling and injuring themselves.
Lack of Handrails
Lack of handrails on stairways is another dangerous issue that causes slip and fall injuries. Most municipalities have specific codes for where handrails are required. Not only is an owner at risk of someone getting injured on their property, but they can also be fined for failing to follow building codes.
Tripping Hazards
Items such as rugs, mats, stair treads, wires, loose cords, and general clutter all elevate the risk of someone tripping and suffering an injury.
Floor and Surface Irregularities
If a floor has loose carpets or floorboards or a walkway has uneven pavements or unmarked curbs, a person walking on these surfaces faces a high risk of tripping. These items all have specific code standards that are required when it comes to ground inclines and concrete.
Weather Conditions
It is up to the owner of a property to make sure any snow or ice is cleared off walkways and stairs. Owners should also treat these surfaces with products that help melt ice and eliminate slipping risks.
Let a Slip and Fall Accident Attorney Get You the Compensation You Deserve
Call an attorney, like a Canoga Park personal injury lawyer, today to set up a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our skilled slip and fall accident attorneys. We can evaluate your case and explain what all of our legal options may be.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Barry P. Goldberg, PLC for their insight into slip and fall cases.
I consulted with David the first time a couple of years ago on a serious matter that affected a very close member of my family. Not expecting a good experience from this serious situation coupled with an attorney consultation, the entire thing surprised me as it was pleasant, professional, and completely successful. We found him clear, direct, generous and extremely knowledgeable throughout the process. I give my very strongest recommendation
