A slip and fall accident is an unplanned fall that often results in injury, and is one of the most common injuries resulting in a hospital visit. Slip and fall accidents can occur anywhere, but certain locations are more prone to these accidents than others. Anyone can slip and fall regardless of their age, so it’s important to be aware of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents. Read on to learn how to protect yourself and what to do if you are the victim of a slip and fall accident.
Who is at risk?
Although slip and fall accidents can happen to anyone, someone over the age of 65 is at the highest risk for these types of accidents. This is because they are more likely to have balance problems or suffer from a chronic illness that can impact their ability to walk without slipping or falling. Additionally, those who are older may not be as aware of their surroundings as they used to be, which can lead to trips and falls both at home or in public spaces.
How do you know if you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident?
There are a number of common symptoms that may indicate you have been injured in a slip and fall accident. Pain in the neck or back are two of the most commonly reported symptoms, as is confusion. Dizziness and nausea are also often associated with these types of accidents. If you experience any of these symptoms after a fall, it is important to seek medical attention right away to ensure that you haven’t sustained any serious injuries.
After seeking treatment, you may want to consider contacting a slip and fall lawyer, especially if you were injured in a public place and incurred high medical costs. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the person or company responsible for your injuries. A lawyer can help you determine if you have a case and will represent you in court if necessary.
The most common causes of slip and fall accidents
Wet surfaces: A leading cause of slip and fall accidents, wet surfaces are usually the result of cleaning activities or spills. When a surface is wet, the water creates a thin layer of lubricant between the surface and the object or person, reducing traction between the two. This layer of water can reduce friction by up to 90%, which can cause a person to lose balance and fall.
Clutter and debris: When objects are strewn about on the floor, it can become difficult to see hazards and avoid them. This can lead to people tripping over things or slipping on objects that they didn’t see. In addition, when there is a lot of clutter on the floor, it becomes harder for people to move around safely, which can also lead to slips and falls.
Icy surfaces: When ice forms, it does not have any bumps or ridges, resulting in a smooth surface. This can make it difficult for people to get a good grip on the ice, which can cause them to slip and fall. In addition, ice slowly releases water as it melts, making it more slippery and dangerous.
Uneven surfaces: One of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents is uneven surfaces. When an individual walks on an uneven surface, they are more likely to lose their balance and fall. This can occur due to several factors, including uneven terrain, objects in the walking path, icy or wet surfaces, and poor lighting.
