Slip and fall accidents are common in both public and private spaces. There is a multitude of causes of slip and fall accidents, from simple spills to poor infrastructure. If you were injured in a slip and fall accident you may be able to collect compensation from a negligent property owner. Speak with a Middlesex County slip and fall accident attorney to learn more about your rights and acquire experienced representation.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Slip and Falls?
Slip and fall accidents are common causes of injuries. Any number of hazards and dangers could result in someone falling and injuring themselves. Consider the following leading causes of slip and fall accidents.
- Wet floors: Arguably the most prevalent cause of slip and falls, wet floors can cause danger no matter where they are. Whether it is caused by a leak or spillage from food or drink, slippery tiles or hardwood floors can cause a person to slip and hurt themselves.
- Loose carpeting: Carpets, rugs, and floor mats are often used in private residences and public stores alike. If parts of the carpet are bulging or mats are loose or folded up on themselves it creates a tripping hazard for patrons.
- Uneven surfaces: People generally expect to walk across flat surfaces so when there is a loose floorboard, cracked pavement, or uneven flooring, a person may lose their footing and have an accident.
- Weather conditions: Particularly in public parking lots, garages, or on walkways, rain, snow, and ice can cause dangerous walking conditions. If a sidewalk or lot was not salted then pavement could freeze causing icy and slippery conditions.
- Floor hazards: Debris could also be left out. Clutter on the floor or exposed wiring across a walking path could cause someone to slip or trip over the hazards.
- Inadequate safety measures: Stairs and raised platforms should have handrails and walkways should be sufficiently lit to allow patrons safe passage. Without these safety measures, an accident could easily occur.
Many of these common causes are simple, everyday issues that are easy to neglect. A property owner may not remember that it is supposed to snow that night or forget that they need to replace a bulging carpet. However simple these safety hazards may seem, it is a property owner’s duty to rectify these issues under premises liability law.
What is Premises Liability Law?
Premises liability law is the liability that property owners have for any accidents or injuries that happen on their property. If a person is lawfully on a property, such as after having been invited or in a public place, any negligence on the part of the owner that results in their injury could be deemed their responsibility.
Property owners have a legal obligation to provide a safe environment for their guests, within reason. They have a duty to perform regular inspections and maintenance to prevent hazards from developing and causing anyone to have an accident or injury.
For legal advice and assistance speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.
