Slip-and-fall accidents are one of the leading causes of injury in the United States. The injuries that result from such accidents can range from minor to catastrophic, and even fatal in certain conditions.
Often, accidents simply cannot be avoided. However, there are many occasions where slip-and-fall injuries could have been prevented. One way to help prevent these accidents is by identifying their common causes. Slips and falls are common due to:
Wet and unstable surfaces
The conditions of the floor surface are a significant factor in slip-and-fall accidents. Floors that are wet, have not been cleaned properly or that are uneven present some of the most severe risks.
It is important to note that slip-and-fall accidents are not limited to working environments, but can essentially occur in any setting. Ensuring that floor surfaces are clean and remain even can go a long way to preventing injuries that result from slips or falls.
Age and infirmity
As people get older, their mobility and balance can often deteriorate. Falls among elderly individuals are a serious issue, with as many as one in three people over 65 years of age suffering a fall each year. Unfortunately, as age increases, so too does the potential for serious injury resulting from a fall.
Unsuitable footwear
Various types of footwear will respond differently to certain floor surfaces. Crucially, this applies not only to the workplace but to numerous other public settings. The deciding factor is often the traction that footwear offers. If traction is decreased on certain floor surfaces, the risk of injury becomes greater.
Examining the common causes of slip-and-fall accidents could ensure your safety. If you have been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, however, there may be legal options available to you.