According to the National Safety Council (NSC), falls result in about 8.9 million emergency room visits each year, and they are the second leading cause of unintentional death in homes and communities, causing more than 25,000 deaths in 2009. There are many things that you can do in and around your home to minimize the risk of slipping, tripping, and falling in other ways, but when you are on someone else’s property you do not have control over slip and trip hazards, and they may not always be obvious.
Slip, Trip and Fall Premises Liability
Property and business owners have a duty to maintain safe conditions for customers, employees, and other types of guests and visitors. The level of responsibility depends on the type of property and the nature of your relationship to the owner or business. In many cases you have the right to sue for compensation for the money that your slip and fall injuries have cost you and your family, your future estimated losses, and other harm you have suffered such as pain and suffering, disfigurement, and permanent impairment.
Causes of Slip, Trip and Fall
Some of the common actionable causes of slip and fall or trip and fall accidents include:
- Spills that are not cleaned up in a timely fashion
- Residues from cleaning supplies, grease, and other slippery substances
- Damaged flooring
- Slick flooring materials
- Changes from non-slip to slick flooring materials
- Wet floors that are not marked with warning signs
- Unmarked step up or step down
- Wrinkled or unsecured carpet and rugs
- Inadequate lighting
- Low obstacles
- Cables and cords across walkways
- Negligent snow and ice removal
- Cracked or damaged sidewalks and parking lots
If you or someone you know has been injured, please take a moment to learn about the legal aspects of your slip and fall accident.
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