A slip and fall accident may not seem like a big deal, but in many countries, falls are the leading cause of preventable injury and can be pretty serious. Young children, older adults, and seniors are the most at risk, as they’re more likely to end up in the hospital or die from their injuries.
Who is Most at Risk of a Slip and Fall Injury?
Over 36 million falls are reported by American adults every year, resulting in more than 32,000 deaths. Approximately 3 million seniors must be treated in emergency departments for a severe fall injury, and about one in every five falls results in a traumatic head injury or broken bones.
Falls are considered a public health concern in the United States, especially among older adults (age 65+) and children under 12. Older adults typically suffer from hip fractures as a result of falling sideways. Women also fall more often than men and make up the majority of injuries.
Can you Sue for a Slip and Fall Injury Due to Negligence?
You might be able to sue for a slip and fall injury if you were on someone else’s private property when the fall occurred. An attorney can walk you through the trial process and ensure you have enough evidence to potentially receive a positive outcome from the trial, like a high settlement.
While you could pay for an out-of-town lawyer, a local lawyer is the best option, as they can practice in your jurisdiction. If you want to sue for slip and fall accidents in Gainesville, you should contact Bagan Law to have an experienced accident injury lawyer represent you.
How to Stay Safe From Fall Hazards In and Out of the Home
A simple slip and fall could cause an injury so severe that you may not be able to walk or call for help. For this reason, you should take preventative measures to reduce falling accidents.
1. Don’t Use Slippery Floor Cleaners
When cleaning your home, avoid using slippery floor cleaners. If you can’t find one in your area, consider drying all slippery surfaces before walking on them. You can also reduce the number of slippery surfaces in your home by installing plush carpets or non-slip pads on large area rugs.
2. Pay More Attention During the Winter
You’re more likely to fall during the winter because of an increased amount of hazards, like ice and snow. To stay safe when the weather cools, walk slowly, test potentially slick areas, and do the penguin shuffle if you have to cross ice. Don’t jump from your vehicle or work equipment.
3. Watch for Slippery Floor Signs
Businesses will usually put out slippery floor signs after they mop. If you see one, make sure you walk slowly. At the same time, there’s a chance you’ll walk into a business that doesn’t use them, so you should walk with caution regardless. Be sure to hold handrails on slippery stairs.
4. Always Lock Ladders or Step Ladders
If you’re using a ladder or step ladder, make sure it fully opens before you walk on it. You should hear a clicking noise when the ladder or step ladder is opened, but some older models will latch without sound. You should also make sure all ladders or step ladders are on a flat surface.
5. Clear Walkways and Stairs of Clutter
Clear walkways and stairs of anything that could be a tripping hazard, such as cords, empty boxes, wires, and clutter. If you have children, tell them to clean up after themselves before leaving the play area. Flatten out rugs or anything else that could catch your limbs or clothes.
