Slip and fall accidents account for roughly 1 million visits to the emergency room every year, and are the leading cause of workers’ compensation laws. The medical costs associated with slip and falls is approximately $70 billion per year.
In order to prevent slip and fall accidents, it is important to know why (and where) they occur. Read below to learn more about slip and fall accidents and how you can prevent them, courtesy of the personal injury lawyers at Stewart Law Offices.
Common Causes Of Slip And Fall Accidents
- Wet or uneven surfaces: it is estimated that more than half of all slip and fall accidents are caused by hazardous walking surfaces.
- Weather conditions: rain, ice, and snow can instantly transform any surface into a slippery and dangerous one.
- Improper training: on-the-job slip and falls often occur because the victim was not adequately trained.
- Unsuitable footwear: about one out of every four slip and fall accidents can be prevented with proper footwear.
- Nursing home neglect: our sense of balance deteriorates as we age, which leaves seniors more prone to falling. If they are not closely monitored, accidents are more likely to happen.
- Fraud: it is important to note that not every slip and fall claim stems from an actual injury. Some of them are just people looking for a quick payday.
Where Do Slip and Fall Accidents Most Frequently Occur?
Where the slip and fall accident takes place is important in terms of liability due to factors such as maintenance expectations, control over conditions, and individuals involved. While slip and falls can occur virtually anywhere, they are most common in:
- Big box and grocery stores
- Hotels and resorts
- Small businesses
- Private homes
- Apartments
- Public spaces
- At work
How to prevent slip and fall accidents
Whether you are the property owner, host, employer, visitor, guest, or employee, there are safety measures you can take in order to reduce the chances of a slip and fall accident.
- Reduce slippery surfaces. Mop up all water spills immediately, place sand on icy surfaces, and use anti-slip mats wherever possible.
- Create a good maintenance schedule. Assign basic housekeeping responsibilities and hold everyone accountable for their job.
- Do not obstruct walkways. Keep all walking paths and aisles clear of tripping hazards.
- Ensure lighting is sufficient. Poor lighting can increase the risk of slip and falls.
- Wear proper footwear. Proper footwear provides good traction and can prevent you from slipping.
- Be mindful of your surroundings. Paying attention to where you are walking can go a long way.
What To Do If You Are Involved In A Slip And Fall
If you are hurt in a slip and fall accident, you may have the right to receive compensation for your injuries. Liability can vary based on what state you are in, the location of your accident, and other circumstances surrounding the fall. It is advised that you speak with a personal injury lawyer immediately following the accident to determine if you have legal rights to recovery.
Stewart Law Offices offers professional legal representation to personal injury victims in North Carolina and South Carolina. Our attorneys are experienced in slip and fall accidents, car crashes, workers comp claims, and all other types of personal injury lawsuits. Contact us online to get started with a free evaluation, or call 866-783-9278.
