There are many types of personal injury that can take place over the course of a person’s life. They may get in a car crash or get injured while playing sports. A worker may fall off a ladder or get injured by machinery.
Slip and fall accidents are a common type of personal injury. Many people make fun of slips and falls as if clumsiness is always to blame. However, even the most graceful person can slip on a slippery substance or surface while walking anywhere, whether it be on a sidewalk, in a restaurant kitchen, in a public bathroom, in a grocery store, on a staircase, or even in their own home. Rain and liquids are often to blame, and a person may not know that any water is on the ground until it is too late. Poor lighting, clutter, rugs, loose mats, and stepladders can also cause slips and falls.
When a slip and fall occurs in a public place, liability may be an issue. Who or what caused you to suffer injuries? Where the accident happened determines who is at fault and who will be liable for paying for your damages. Here are some common places where slips and falls occur.
In the Workplace
Slips, trips, and falls can happen in any workplace — even an office — but they are especially common in retail environments. Many happen when workers fall from ladders. To prevent this, employees should use ladders safely. Always ensure they are fully open before using them. Do not exceed the load limit, and wipe off the rungs before use.
Stores
Grocery stores and retail stores are often sources of slippery floors and clutter. Grocery stores carry liquids and food items that can spill onto the floor and cause customers to slip and fall if not cleaned up promptly. A broken refrigerator can also leak and cause puddles of liquid to accumulate. In retail environments, clothing and merchandise can fall onto the floor and cause unsuspecting customers to slip. Workers need to inspect floors regularly and remove clutter and spills promptly.
Shopping Malls
While shopping malls have many of the same dangers as retail stores, they also have other hazards due to the layout and other features, such as elevators and escalators. Walkways may be cluttered with kiosks and displays that can cause accidents. Plus, there are food courts in malls, and spills and debris may be present on the floors.
Restaurants
Restaurants are known for food and beverages, both of which may end up on the ground at any time. A server may drop food on the ground. So may a child or other messy eater. Plus, there could be spills in the bathrooms. Overcrowding and poor design can make slips and falls more likely to occur. Patrons and employees alike need to be careful when walking inside a restaurant.
Hotels and Resorts
Hotels and resorts can also be unsafe, as guests are staying in unfamiliar areas. Inside, spills can happen in lobbies or restaurant areas. Outside, water may accumulate near pools and spas, causing guests to slip and fall. Elevators and slick floors can also lead to accidents.
Amusement Parks
Amusement parks can be a fun time, especially for young children. However, these locations are often crowded, which can cause unsuspecting guests to trip and fall over something. Drinks and food can be spilled onto the ground. Plus, a guest who becomes dizzy on a ride could become disoriented and end up falling to the ground.
Parking Lots and Garages
Anything could happen as you are walking to and from your car in a parking lot or garage. If you are in a parking garage, it may not be well-lit, causing you to slip or trip on something. Outdoor parking lots can also be dangerous, especially if they are poorly maintained. There may be uneven ground and potholes, both of which can cause you to trip.
Sidewalks and Walkways
Even if you are not in a parking lot, you can still get injured while walking. Poorly maintained sidewalks can cause trip hazards. In inclement weather, ice and rain can cause you to slip. Property owners have a duty to keep their walkways and entrances well-maintained and free of ice and snow. Otherwise, they can be held liable for injuries caused by slips and falls.
Staircases
Stairs can also pose dangers for uncoordinated people or those with mobility issues. Whether they are indoors or outdoors, staircases can cause various injuries due to a few reasons. Poor maintenance is a common factor. When the stairs are cracked or broken, accidents are more likely to occur. Plus, steps may be wet or icy due to weather conditions. When the staircase does not have a handrail, that can also cause a slip and fall.
Contact Us Today
In real life, slips and falls are not the funny events that you see on TV. They are often serious events that cause broken bones, head trauma, and even death.
At Brill & Rinaldi, The Law Firm, we will examine the details of your case and help you determine how best to move forward. You need experienced, dedicated attorneys on your side to obtain the justice you deserve. Schedule a free consultation today. Fill out the online form or call (954) 876-4344. We have offices in Weston, Coral Gables, and Daytona Beach.