Unfortunately, slips and falls are a common occurrence. At times the fault lies with the entity charged with the care and upkeep of the area. There are many common causes of these kinds of accidents that you should be aware of. Not only can your awareness help you avoid slip and fall accidents, but also helps you identify potential danger zones.
1. Hazardous Areas
Hazardous areas are one of the most frequent causes of slip and fall accidents according to Salt Lake City injury attorneys. Included in hazardous areas are wet or slippery floors and cluttered walkways. Wet floors increase the risk of falls even more so when the surfaces are smooth or waxed. When you couple that with an unsteady gait, slick-bottomed shoe, or liquid, someone has the real potential to be seriously injured. Likewise, cluttered walkways create unnecessary obstacles for people to avoid.
2. Uneven Surfaces
Large cracks in concrete or bulges due to underground tree roots can cause problems for pedestrians, bicyclists, strollers, and pets. Potholes are equally as hazardous as loose floorboards and freestanding rugs with no grip or anchoring.
3. Cords and Wires
Unfastened cords and wires can be an accident waiting to happen both indoors and outdoors. Exposed cables and wires can create several potential risks, including slips, falls, and electrocution.
4. Inclement Weather
Rain, snow, ice, and other forms of precipitation can be a recipe for disaster. Not only do vehicles struggle with navigating icy and wet conditions, but also those who are walking. Areas outside of businesses and homes are common areas where people experience slips and falls.
5. Building or Structural Conditions
Structural conditions are known to increase the risk of falls. Some of the more common conditions that lead to slips and falls include damaged handrails and banisters. When people lean on these unstable structures they can suffer significant injuries.
6. Inadequate Lighting
Someone’s inadequate lighting can also contribute to dangerous slips and falls. Poorly lit areas make it difficult to safely navigate spaces and effectively avoid a fall.
7. Improper Footwear
Wearing improper footwear is another common cause of falls. Shoes that do not fit the wearer appropriately, have extremely worn soles, or soles without sufficient traction can cause falls and fall injuries. These falls are quite common in workplaces.
8. Distracted Navigation
Inattention and distractions are notorious for causing accidental slips and falls. Talking with others and using a mobile device can cause falls. Losing focus on one’s surroundings makes it nearly impossible to avoid hazards or react quickly.
9. Excessive Attention
Just as dangerous as distracted navigation is hyperfocus. Giving excessive attention to an object or group of things can cause you to lose spatial awareness or notice other potential hazards. For instance, walking around a monument or a museum and focusing solely on an exhibit or that monument can cause you not to see other people, obstacles, or structures resulting in a fall and injury.
10. Rushing
When people are in a hurry, they’re more likely to misstep. Hurried movements can be detrimental, particularly when they’re done with little regard to the sitting environment. Rushing is a combination of excessive attention and distracted navigation.
While not all slip-and-fall accidents can be avoided, many can be. It’s not always possible to control your environment, but paying attention to your surroundings and being cautious can save you from an injury. Now that you know some of the more common scenarios, you can take the proper precautions.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
