How to Avoid the Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Injuries
Avoiding a slip and fall injury is possible if you recognize the most common hazards to watch out for in your home, at work and out in public. Personal injury lawyers based in Los Angeles suggest reducing your risk of getting involved in these types of accidents by paying attention to your surroundings and practicing a few safe habits as part of your walking routine.
Don’t Walk While Distracted
Always pay attention to where you are walking. While on a sidewalk, in a store, at work or even right at home, avoid looking down at your phone or otherwise engaging in distractions while you walk. Paying attention to your surroundings can allow you to spot potential slip or trip and fall hazards ahead of time and avoid them.
Read and Follow Warning Signs
Property owners have a responsibility to adequately warn visitors of known or potential slip and fall hazards, such as wet floors or uneven surfaces. Watch out for posted warning or hazard signs in the area. Always follow the warnings or instructions on signage to avoid potentially dangerous floor surfaces or conditions.
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Watch for Slippery Surfaces
Many slip and fall accidents are caused by wet, greasy, icy or otherwise slippery surfaces. Rainwater, spills, recently mopped or waxed floors, and food debris can all contribute to these accidents. While it’s not always possible to spot wet floors, do your best to look for warning signs.
Wear the Right Shoes
The shoes you wear can make a big difference in whether or not you are at risk of a slip and fall accident. Wear shoes with slip-resistant tread and good support, especially if you are working or you plan on walking a lot. Non-slip shoes can keep you on your feet even in the face of property hazards.
Be Careful on Stairs
Staircases are a common setting for some of the most severe slip and fall accidents. When traversing up or down stairs, take your time and use the available handrails. If a staircase has missing or broken handrails, report this to the property owner. Avoid carrying large or bulky items that may block your field of vision up or down stairs.
Ensure Adequate Lighting
Low or inadequate lighting increases the risk of fall accidents. Without good lighting, a property visitor may be unable to see or detect slipping or tripping hazards. If you cannot control the lights where you are, use your phone or a flashlight to enhance your visibility in poorly lit areas. Consider an alternate route that is better lit if providing your own light is not possible.
What to Do if You Get Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident
Even the most careful and prudent individual could suffer a serious injury in a slip and fall accident. While there are steps you can take to minimize your risk, on a dangerous or defective property, there may be nothing you can do to prevent a bad fall.If you get hurt in a serious slip and fall accident, take pictures of the hazard and collect other forms of evidence, such as an accident report and witness statements. Get medical care right away. When you’re ready to discuss your legal rights and options, contact a slip and fall accident lawyer near you for a free consultation.