According to the National Safety Council, nearly nine million people are hospitalized with serious injuries after slips and falls every year.
That is why it is critical to spread awareness of all of the slip and fall hazards that individuals face as a result of another’s negligence. So, what are some of the common causes of these injuries?
What hazards cause slips and falls?
When property owners do not take the time to maintain their property properly, they create dangerous conditions for anyone else visiting the property. These dangerous conditions often include:
- Weather conditions: Weather is a common culprit for creating dangerous conditions. Thankfully, ice and snow are rare in Kentucky. However, our heavy rains can still create slippery conditions, or fill potholes that place individuals at risk.
- Slippery floors: Spills on the floor are a common risk that individuals face in public places or grocery stores. The actual spills of food or liquid can create hazards, but so can newly-mopped floors without a caution sign.
- Uneven surfaces: Uneven surfaces both inside and outside are some of the most dangerous hazards. These hazards include anything from potholes to loose floorboards, or bunched rugs in hallways or stairways.
- Poor lighting: Improper lighting in hallways or stairwells can make it difficult to see any obstacles ahead, such as any of the previously listed items. This environmental hazard can make matters worse in a slip and fall accident.
Regardless of what created the hazard, the property owner has a duty of care to repair the danger as soon as possible.
Why should you know about these hazards?
Knowing about these risks is often the first step individuals can take to prevent injury. Slip and fall accidents might be common enough that individuals see no reason to worry. However, these accidents can result in serious injuries such as:
- Broken bones in arms and legs
- Internal bleeding
- Severe head injuries, including concussions
- Neck or spinal cord injuries
These accidents can easily result in a life-changing disability. So, individuals should not overlook the dangers of slips and falls.
It is the property owner’s responsibility to maintain their property and eliminate hazards. However, it is still critical for individuals to be aware of their surroundings and these potential dangers to avoid injury.
