The latest statistics from the CDC indicate that in 2023, unintentional falls were responsible for almost 70 deaths out of every 100,000 elderly people over 65, and the probability of falling was even higher for the older parts of this group. The numbers indicate that slips and falls constitute the primary danger to health for the older population.
Slip and fall accidents can occur at any time and are most often associated with hazardous situations such as wet surfaces, uneven ground, poor lighting, and obstructed pathways. The very fact that one may not be aware of these risks could lead to very serious injuries coming without much warning.
The injured person can only realize their legal options by knowing how a slip and fall claim works and what may be required to acquire compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and other related damages.
Let’s outline the primary causes of slip and fall accidents and the process of assigning liability.
Wet Floors and Spills
People should be mindful when walking along high-traffic areas. These areas are often prone to spills. According to Henderson slip and fall lawyer W. Douglas Easton, it’s the responsibility of property owners to alert visitors about possible dangers or to remove the existing dangers in their property. The public should still be responsible for their personal safety. Alert and watchful people are less likely to get injured.
Uneven Surfaces and Cracks
Uneven surfaces and cracks are just as dangerous as wet floors and spills are. If a person walks on one, he or she can easily trip and fall. To avoid such accidents, a person has to always keep some kind of alertness for the tripping hazards.
Very hazardous situations exist in overpopulated spots. These situations are primarily dangerous due to their high population density. Pedestrians in such areas should be careful and aware of the road, other cars, and the ground. A small dip or an uneven piece of ground can lead to a trip and fall incident.
Poor Lighting Conditions
A person can barely see obstacles, floor changes, and wet areas with bad lighting, causing them to slip and fall. It happens due to wrong judging of the ground or failing to notice these obstacles.
Some places that are usually poorly lit are staircases, parking lots, and pavements. Safety in these locations is greatly dependent on well-lit areas. The installation of proper lighting will help a lot in reducing the chances of people slipping and falling.
Clutter and Obstructions
Items such as cardboard cutouts, packing tape, sports equipment, furniture, or tools left on a walkway can cause incidents for individuals who are simply walking. This sort of accident can take place anywhere and not only at the workplace, people’s homes, or streets but also wherever the injured person is.
The person failing to notice the floor’s loose wire or the wet area might accidentally slip and fall, and they probably will get hurt quite badly. Always be quick to report cluttered stuff as soon as you find it. Take professional precautions. Consult attorneys when you are involved in an accident caused by obstacles.
Inadequate Maintenance and Inspections
Failing to conduct meticulous premises inspections could lead to dangerous situations, like broken sidewalks, fallen railings, or darkened paths. A situation of this sort can be illustrated with a person falling over a lifted wall tile or sliding down a floor that is wet but not marked. The said negligence could leave behind an unsafe environment for any inhabitants, employees, or others.
When accidents take place as a result of maintenance negligence, the property management may be held liable for injuries. Report any concerns that are based on maintenance or push for regular inspections to guarantee safety.
Being prepared for dangerous situations beforehand would be of great benefit in case of serious injury, and it would also give you tranquility.
Accidents caused by slipping and falling can occur anywhere. But you can minimize the risk of accidents if you are aware of their primary cause. Through preventive measures and safe handling of risks, you can avoid accidents.
And don’t forget that if you get hurt on another person’s property, you have the right to seek compensation.
