Some of the most common injuries in businesses and public areas are caused by slips or falls. Public spaces such as parking lots, stores, and offices may contain hazards that can lead to serious injuries for unsuspecting people.

Being aware of these common dangers and knowing how to look for them can reduce the risk of accidents for you or your loved ones. If you have been injured because of slip and fall dangers, a lawyer can help you seek compensation.

Causes of Slips and Falls

Slips and falls in public areas can be the result of multiple factors. These factors may include the following types of hazards.

Wet and Slippery Surfaces

In many businesses, foot traffic from outside the building can bring in rainwater, resulting in wet floors around entrances and exits. Slip hazards inside the building can be caused by spilled beverages and other liquids, as well as freshly mopped floors.

Uneven Surfaces

Walking surfaces with uneven heights, such as cracked and damaged sidewalks or flooring, can cause people to trip and fall.

Bad Visibility

Poorly lit areas such as hallways, stairs, parking lots, and entrances can make it difficult for people to see obstacles in their path.

Obstacles

Obstructions such as stray cords, poorly stored boxes, and corners of tables or cases could present a tripping hazard in the walking path, especially when the public area is busy.

Weather-Related Hazards

Rain, snow, and ice can leave areas such as sidewalks, entryways, and pathways slippery consistently throughout the day.

Hazard Prevention

Being aware of your surroundings and taking steps to avoid common hazards are crucial to preventing slips and falls. Taking these precautions can help reduce the risk of injury, no matter the condition of the public areas you enter. Property owners should also take the initiative on preventative measures to reduce fall or slip hazards.

The following are common safety practices that businesses and individuals can observe to improve their own safety.

Wear Proper Footwear

Depending on what you are doing, wearing closed-toe shoes with sufficient traction could reduce the risk of slips or falls due to poor surface conditions.

Tell Someone About What You See

Alerting someone to potential hazards that need to be fixed can be crucial to preventing injuries. If you see a danger such as a spill, a wet surface, or damaged flooring, inform a worker of the issue before an accident happens.

Use the Fall Protection Systems in Place

Businesses and public areas have various passive fall protective devices, including handrails, guardrails, ramps, and warning signs. Be sure to use these systems to keep yourself and others safe.

Prepare for Weather

Whether the forecast includes rain, snow, or ice, taking proper precautions is important. Using appropriate footwear and employing preventative measures such as salt and warning signs can be critical for preventing accidents.

Speak With a Personal Injury Attorney About Your Slip or Fall

Slips or falls in public areas can result in serious and potentially life-changing injuries. In the event of an injury due to hazardous conditions, you may have the right to seek compensation to help with medical bills, lost income, and other damages that occurred.

A personal injury attorney can support you in the legal process, helping you build your case and identify your liability. Reach out to one of our experienced lawyers at Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today to discuss your case.