The following contribution is from another author.
No human being is exempt from slip and fall accidents, whether you’re a ruler, leader, rich, poor, or own the world. Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, be it in offices, shopping malls, or expensive neighborhoods. All of a sudden, your regular daily routine turns into a painful ordeal as a result of slip and fall accidents, which can cause minor to severe injuries or, in the worst cases, can even be fatal.
Such accidents are common in many states of the US. Most of these accidents are due to the negligence of the manufacturers of equipment used to furnish working areas, company failure to repair workspaces, and ignoring instructions in some areas.
Victims must consult the slip and fall injury attorneys at Michigan Injury Lawyers to get help in proving the liable party’s negligence and in receiving fair compensation for any damages and losses they have suffered.
This article will discuss the common reasons for slip and fall accidents. The objective here is to empower you with knowledge so that you can prevent them. Read on.
Uneven and Wet Surfaces
Uneven or wet surfaces can be very dangerous. The level of danger is especially more in high-traffic areas, where it may be hard to notice them due to the crowds.
Freshly mopped floors, spills that have not been cleaned or wiped away, and uneven sidewalks are some of the major reasons for slip and fall accidents.
Uneven and wet surfaces contribute to slip and fall accidents through
- Loss of traction
- Reduced stability
- Limited visibility
- Negative impact on footwear
It is, therefore, essential to maintain these areas well, keep the surfaces dry after cleaning, and encourage those who use these spaces to wear quality footwear with good traction.
Lack of or poor lighting
Lack of lighting makes it difficult to see and identify potential hazards, leading to increased chances of slip and fall accidents. Proper lighting improves visibility and helps to make the environment safe.
Loose or damaged flooring
This paves the way to tripping hazards that cause slip and fall accidents. Loose floorboards, cracked tiles, and torn carpets fall into this category.
It is essential for the building management or the owners of workspaces to ensure they are well maintained to avoid such cases.
Lack of handrails
Staircases and ramps installed without handrails are dangerous. They are particularly dangerous for people with mobility problems, those with balance issues, and the elderly.
Handrails are essential for support and stability on stairs and inclined places or surfaces. This prevents users from ending up as victims of slip and fall accidents.
Weather conditions
Rain, snow, and ice can lead to hazardous environmental conditions in outdoor areas. This increases the slipperiness of these surfaces, thus increasing the chances of slip and fall accidents.
To avoid these accidents, the management should properly maintain such areas and ensure that safety measures are undertaken to reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents.
Conclusion
It is essential for building management and property owners, especially in places that experience heavy footfall, to understand the causes of slip and fall accidents. This knowledge will help them observe proper maintenance practices and eradicate dangers that can cause harm to individuals.
There are chances that some landlords or property owners exhibit negligence in following safety standards. They may not pay attention to reports of hazards.
When someone gets hurt under these circumstances, it is important for them to be aware of their rights. They should consult a slip and fall accident attorney to find out what their options are. With the right legal assistance, victims can get fair compensation for all the damages and losses they suffer.
