4 Leading Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

As you navigate your daily life, the threat of slip-and-fall accidents lurks in unexpected places. Whether a stroll in the park or at the mall, these environments can instantly transform into hazardous spaces if the property owner doesn't perform safety checks. Sadly, the repercussions of slips and falls extend beyond the physical trauma. They can result in long-term medical treatments, rehabilitation, and disabilities. The toll on an individual's physical well-being is compounded by the emotional distress that often accompanies such accidents. Therefore, it makes sense to hire a personal injury lawyer for legal representation in such a situation. A lawyer can prove the defendant's liability towards you and ensure you are rightfully compensated.

Unfortunately, according to the National Floor Safety Institute, falls account for approximately 8 million ER visits nationwide, including in Colorado. At the same time, fractures are the most common type of injury in a slip-and-fall accident.

Among the four leading slip and fall causes include the following:

1. Risks of an Uneven Terrain

Navigating uneven terrains/surfaces like cracked sidewalks, poorly maintained walkways, and irregular flooring heightens the threat of slips and falls. These surfaces can instantly transform into hazardous zones. For example, unexpected changes in surface elevation due to cracks or holes can catch individuals off guard, causing them to lose balance and resulting in a dangerous fall.

2. Wet & Slippery Floors

Wet and slippery floors present a significant and often underestimated danger, particularly in environments where routine maintenance, such as mopping, is necessary. When floors are freshly mopped, it is crucial to communicate this to individuals in the vicinity. Signage, warning cones, or verbal alerts can serve as vital indicators, prompting people to exercise caution and navigate the area with heightened awareness. The absence of such warnings can turn routine maintenance into a potential hazard, as individuals may not anticipate the change in surface conditions.

3. Inadequate Lighting

Insufficient lighting significantly contributes to slip and fall accidents. Poorly lit areas obscure obstacles, changes in elevation, or hazards make it difficult for individuals to navigate safely. This issue could be more problematic in parking lots, stairwells, and poorly illuminated indoor spaces, creating a high-risk environment for slip and fall.

4. Absent Handrails

Staircases lacking handrails or featuring faulty ones pose a substantial risk for slip and fall incidents. Handrails offer essential support and stability, especially for individuals with mobility challenges or in adverse weather conditions. In their absence or disrepair, the likelihood of a fall on stairs escalates, increasing the potential for severe injuries.

Wrapping Up

Slip and fall accidents are often preventable; understanding their leading causes is critical to fostering a safer environment. Property owners, businesses, and individuals must proactively address these risk factors and minimize potential accidents. When injured in a slip & fall incident, seeking legal guidance is essential to get fairly compensated.

At Larson Law Firm, PC, our experienced and trusted personal injury lawyers specialize in cases pertaining to slips and falls, advocating for victims to receive the compensation they deserve. Call us at (719) 988-3102 for a free case evaluation.

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of such accidents, and are dedicated to providing the legal support needed for a comprehensive recovery. Don't let negligence go unchecked—contact Larson Law Firm, PC and let us fight for your right