Whether it is a wet floor, a frayed rug or an icy sidewalk, slips and falls occur frequently, and they result in numerous injuries and even death. When a fall occurs due to someone’s negligence, and there is an injury as a result, the injured victim can take legal action.
Because of the harm slips and falls cause, individuals and business owners need to make sure they are doing what they can to prevent these accidents from happening.
Common types of slip and fall accidents
According to the Southern Maryland Chronicle, many of these types of accidents are preventable and avoidable. Slips on wet floors is extremely common, and common causes include drinking fountains, water and grease spills, soap containers, exterior doors of building and kitchen appliances.
Weather is also a factor in accidents. Snow, rain, flooding and fallen tree branches can cause dangerous hazards on walkways. Uneven surfaces are another common cause of falls. Many accidents occur due to old carpeting, improperly laid mats, loose flooring, damaged stairs and damaged sidewalks.
In the workplace, conditions such as insufficient lighting, trash, cords and misplaced equipment contribute to slips and falls. The elderly are most susceptible to falling, and medical neglect in hospitals and nursing homes often result in fractures, mainly of the hip.
Slip and fall facts and stats
Falls among the elderly, according to the National Floor Safety Institute, are prevalent, and they account for 87% of all broken bones and are the second leading cause of brain and spinal cord injuries. 60% of associated deaths involve those 75 years of age and older.
Among all age categories, falls are the leading cause of emergency room visits at 21.3%, while slips contribute to 12% of all cases of falls. Slips and falls are also the primary cause of workers’ compensation claims, with 22% of the incidents resulting in more than 31 days off of work.
