Understanding the common causes of slip and fall accidents helps prevent them and promote safety.
Property causes
According to the National Floor Safety Institute, more than one million people go to the ER for slips and falls, while five million go for falls alone. Many of these injuries and deaths were caused by slip-and-fall incidents. Some of the causes of these incidents are property-related or the responsibility of the property owner.
Watch for wet floors, whether from spills, rain or cleaning, and uneven surfaces, including cracked sidewalks, damaged flooring or poorly maintained pathways can easily trip people. Dimly lit areas make it difficult to spot obstacles or changes in the terrain. Stairs without sturdy handrails or ones that are loose or damaged can pose a serious danger.
Cluttered or obstructed walkways, both indoors and outdoors, can impede safe passage. Tripping hazards like boxes, cords or debris are common culprits. A lack of warning signs in areas where hazards exist can also lead to accidents. Finally, the use of excessive cleaning products or improper cleaning methods can leave behind residue that makes floors dangerously slippery.
Weather causes
Rain, ice or snow can create slippery surfaces outdoors. Property owners and businesses should take precautions to prevent accidents during adverse weather. Property visitors need to wear appropriate shoes and take caution during inclement weather.
Slip and fall accidents occur in various environments, and their causes often stem from negligence or inadequate maintenance. Preventing these accidents requires vigilance and proper safety measures by both property owners and visitors.