Slip and fall accidents remain one of the number one sources of personal injury claims nationwide behind motor vehicle accidents and dog bites. However, unlike the former, slips and falls can happen just about anywhere, and it can be very hard to prove necessary negligence on the part of the property owner. There are several key causes of slips and falls that property owners should be aware of.
Wet Surfaces
Almost everyone has seen a “Caution: Wet Floor” sign at one point or another and for a good reason. A wet surface is very easy to slip on. When people know that a surface is wet, they naturally alter their gait to compensate for the slippery surface or avoid the area altogether. However, when a person unknowingly walks into a wet area, the slick nature created by the liquid on the floor will carry the foot forward, leading to that person often falling backward onto their head. This can lead to severe physical injury or concussion.
Uneven Floors
Uneven flooring is a huge cause of fall accidents. Cracks in the hardwood, divots in the floor, etc. can all contribute to a person’s foot getting caught, sending them falling to the ground. These are most often brought about by age or poor maintenance.
Debris
Any kind of debris on the ground, be it rocks, waste, carelessly placed boxes, etc can present a tripping hazard to customers and employees alike. It’s not always so easy to simply “watch where you’re walking!” Clearing debris is the responsibility of the property owner in almost all cases. This includes snow and ice removal from the sidewalk in the winter months in most jurisdictions.
Poor Lighting
Poor lighting can make it hard for most people to see where they’re going, potentially leading to their foot catching on a hazard they might otherwise have been able to avoid.
Potholes
Potholes and broken asphalt are massive contributing factors to injuries in store or business parking lots. It is very easy for feet to catch on raised asphalt, leading to a person spilling face-first into a hard, unforgiving surface. This can cause lacerations to the arms and face, broken bones, or even dental damage. Additionally, potholes might not be seen by the person falling into them, leading to broken bones, sprains, and lacerations.
Lack of Warning
If a property owner is aware of a hazard in advance and fails to promptly warn others about the potential danger, they can be deemed negligent in a court of law and may be held liable for paying damages to the injured party.
Have you been injured in a slip-and-fall accident in Arizona? You may be entitled to compensation. Contact Simon Law Group today for a free consultation.
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