Slip and fall accidents often result in painful injury, and sometimes even death. Thousands of deaths each year are attributed to trip and fall accidents. Slip and fall or trip and fall accidents are typically caused by dangerous or hazardous conditions on someone’s property.
What Causes Slip and Fall or Trip and Fall Injuries? Premises hazards often fall into four broad categories:
Poor design-Accidents frequently happen in environment that are poorly designed or maintained. Examples of a pathway that might be poorly designed include: Hidden or partially hidden crosswalks, Uneven sidewalks, Poorly lit walkways, Narrow walkways
Poor maintenance-Accidents may occur in an environment that is poorly maintained. Examples of unsafe and hazardous environments include walkways with: Overgrown trees blocking the path, Overhead lights or lamps that do not work, Grass or weeds coming up through the pathway that cause unevenness, Potholes, cracks or gaps
Slippery walkways-Walkways which become slippery due to rain or other substances pose a risk of injury by slipping. Examples include: Rain, Sprinklers, Food, Beverage, Pens or pencils, Balls, Fallen or scattered fruit, flowers, seeds from nearby trees, plants or bushes
Obstructed walkways-Walkways which are obstructed pose a risk of injury by tripping. Examples include:
Roots, Retail products, Carpet or rugs, Wires or cables
