Common Causes of Slip-and-Fall Accidents and Avoiding Them
Over three million individuals are hospitalized or require emergency care for slip-and-fall injuries each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Older adults are statistically more likely to experience a dangerous fall, but it can happen to anyone. Whether they occur on private or publicly owned property, slip-and-fall injuries can have a profound impact on an individual’s physical and mental health as well as their ability to work.
Common Causes of Slip-and-Fall Accidents
Common causes of slip-and-fall injuries include:
- Wet or slippery surfaces. Slick surfaces can cause people to lose their footing. Examples of locations where slippery-floor accidents occur include supermarkets, malls, public bathrooms, food service locations, and pool areas.
- Uneven or damaged flooring. If flooring such as wood, linoleum, tile, or concrete is not maintained, it can lead to warped boards, chips, cracks, or holes that pose a hazard. Floor areas that are exposed to increased levels of heat, cold, moisture, dryness, or frequent use are more likely to get damaged over time.
- Inadequate lighting. Illuminating walkways on public and private property is a key way for property owners to ensure visitor safety. Without proper lighting, even safe areas can be difficult to navigate. Walking through parking lots or parking garages, downstairs, or on public sidewalks in dim or flickering light can lead to tripping on unseen obstacles.
- Cluttered walkways. When objects or debris are left in pedestrian pathways, walkers are forced to weave to avoid falling, increasing the risk of losing balance. Taking simple steps, such as assigning an employee to pick up fallen items in a retail store or providing workers at a construction site with a central location to keep supplies, can help avoid such obstacles.
- Lack of warning signs. Having clear warning signs to indicate known hazards can make a life-or-death difference. During wet weather or after a smooth floor is freshly mopped, obvious warning signs can notify visitors to take caution to avoid slipping.
What You Can Do To Avoid Slip-and-Fall Accidents
Protect yourself and others from dangerous slip-and-fall accidents by observing these tips:
- Watch your step. When traveling on foot, keep an eye on the walking surfaces ahead. Avoid using a phone in a way that prevents you from seeing the floor in front of you.
- Wear appropriate footwear. Consider the potential environmental hazards you will encounter when choosing your shoes. For example, well-fitted shoes with flat soles and a bottom tread pattern can help you maintain your footing better than heels when walking on uneven surfaces.
- Report hazards. When you see a dangerous condition, report it to the property owner. By acting quickly, you may be able to mitigate the damage it could cause others.
- Take precautions in adverse weather. When inclement weather brings rain, ice, or snow, it is essential to take extra precautions outdoors and when entering or exiting buildings. Avoid carrying too many heavy items, especially when going up stairs or steeper slopes. Wear appropriate shoes to get a good grip on the floor. Keep your hands available to help you keep balance.
- Be mindful of your surroundings. In addition to keeping an eye on the ground in front of you, it is essential to be aware of hazards that could come into your path from other directions. This could include people, small animals, bicycles, water, sand, or debris.
Legal Recourse for Long Beach Slip-and-Fall Victims
If you have experienced a slip-and-fall accident in Long Beach caused by the negligence of another party, you have the right to take legal action and seek justice for your injuries. Compensation for slip-and-fall accident injuries can include financial reimbursement for past and future medical expenses, lost past or future wages, prescriptions, physical pain, emotional suffering, loss of life enjoyment, and more. A Long Beach premises liability lawyer can help you calculate the full extent of your damages so that they can fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.
Your Recovery Is Our Priority
The Law Firm of Joseph H. Low IV has been serving the Long Beach community for over 20 years, and we’re proud to have made a lasting, positive impact on the lives of our clients. Head attorney Joseph Low stands ready to help you navigate the complex legal system and pursue the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Contact us at (562) 901-0840 for a free initial consultation to discuss your case.