Every year, thousands of people visit the hospital with injuries caused by slip-and-fall accidents. These incidents can happen anywhere — at home, at work, or even in public spaces. They are a leading cause of preventable injuries, ranging from minor bruises to severe fractures or head trauma.
Understanding the root causes of slip and fall accidents is crucial for preventing injuries and knowing who may be liable in these situations. The slip-and-fall attorneys at Lenahan & Dempsey explore the most common causes of slip-and-fall accidents, discuss liability, and provide actionable advice on what to do if you’ve been a victim.
Leading Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Many factors contribute to slip-and-fall accidents, and one common theme is the lack of regular maintenance. Below, we break down some of the most common causes, explain how they occur, and offer tips to prevent them.
1. Wet Surfaces
Wet surfaces are one of the leading causes of slip-and-fall accidents. Spilled liquids, freshly mopped floors, and rainwater tracked indoors are common culprits. Snowmelt and puddles at entryways or on tiled floors also create dangerous conditions.
2. Statistics Matter
According to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), more than 50% of all slip-and-fall accidents are caused by slippery floors. Businesses and property owners must ensure proper cleaning protocols to minimize risks, such as promptly wiping up spills or using caution signs for wet floors.
3. Uneven Surfaces
Uneven surfaces can include cracked pavement, loose floorboards, uneven steps, or sudden changes in flooring height. These hazards are particularly common in older buildings or poorly maintained properties. When surfaces are not level, it significantly increases the likelihood of someone tripping, leading to serious injuries.
4. Poor Lighting
Poor lighting creates shadows and conceals hazards, making it difficult to spot issues like debris, uneven surfaces, or spills. Dimly lit hallways, staircases, and parking lots are especially prone to accidents.
5. Solutions
Installing adequate lighting in frequently used areas, such as stairways and entrances, can significantly reduce the risk of falls. Motion-sensor lights and brighter bulbs are simple yet effective solutions.
6. Cluttered Walkways
Clutter is a common tripping hazard that can be found in households, workplaces, and retail spaces. Items like electrical cords, boxes, loose rugs, or even debris left on the floor create unnecessary risks for pedestrians.
Who Is Liable for Slip & Fall Accidents?
Determining liability is a critical aspect of any slip-and-fall case. Who is responsible often depends on whether the accident occurred on public, private, or commercial property.
Homeowner Liability
Homeowners have a legal obligation to maintain a safe environment for guests. If someone sustains an injury due to a hazardous condition on the property, the homeowner could be held liable. For example:
- Failing to repair loose wooden steps
- Not clearing snow or ice from walkways in a timely manner
- Leaving tripping hazards, such as toys or cords, in common areas
Business Liability
Businesses must ensure the safety of their customers and employees. Under premises liability law, owners of commercial properties must regularly inspect and maintain their buildings to identify and address any potential hazards.
Failing to do so could result in serious liability claims, such as:
- Leaving spills unnoticed and uncleaned for extended periods
- Failing to fix broken tiles or torn carpeting in a timely manner
- Having insufficient lighting in parking lots or hallways
What to Do After a Slip-and-Fall Accident
If you’ve been hurt in a slip-and-fall accident, taking the right steps afterward is essential for protecting your health and any potential legal claim.
Your health should be your top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, seeking immediate medical care ensures a proper assessment and helps document your injuries.
If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene to capture any hazards that contributed to the fall. Note the time, date, and location of the accident, and collect the contact information of any witnesses.
Report the incident to the property owner, manager, or landlord. This step is particularly important if the accident occurred on commercial property. Request a written report of the incident for your records.
Why Choose Lenahan & Dempsey?
Working with a Pennsylvania slip and fall attorney can help you determine whether you are eligible for compensation. Our attorneys can guide you through the legal process and advocate on your behalf.
At Lenahan & Dempsey, we handle the details so that you can focus on healing. Slip-and-fall accidents can be life-changing, but with the right guidance, you can work toward recovery and compensation.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our team of attorneys.
*Details on Settlements & Verdicts are found at LenahanDempsey.com. All law firms are required to note that because the facts of each case are different, past performance is not a promise of a future outcome.
