Falls are one of the leading causes of preventable injuries and fatalities in the U.S. While falls can happen at any time of year, they are a particular concern during winter. Elderly individuals especially are susceptible to this type of accident.
The unfortunate aspect of falls is that many of them are preventable. Here are some of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents.
Poor housekeeping
All premises that are open to the public owe a legal duty of care. This means that steps should be taken to prevent accidents. Housekeeping is a large part of this. The management of premises should clean up spills and moisture on the floor brought in from outside. Care should also be taken to remove trip hazards like boxes, loose cables and any other forms of clutter.
Falls frequently occur on wet floors and areas where there are trip hazards. Hazards are especially dangerous when they are in narrow hallways and near staircases.
Inadequate lighting
Lighting is something that many premises neglect. A broken light may not seem like a big deal, but it means that visitors cannot properly see where they are going. In settings such as restaurants and bars, dim lighting is often used to create an atmosphere. Nonetheless, business owners should not sacrifice safety. All lighting must be practical and safe.
If you have been injured in a fall, obtaining financial compensation may be possible. This can help cover your medical costs and expenses while you recover. Seek legal guidance to find out more about negligence and personal injury law.