The range of injuries that result from slip and fall accidents is large. Some people sustain minor cuts, while others may suffer broken bones, concussions, sprains, or strains. In Charlottesville, these accidents occur in public spaces and common-use facilities.
If you’re constantly on the move, knowing at-risk locations can help you stay alert and reduce your chances of getting injured. Read on to know the top causes of slip and fall injuries in Charlottesville.
Broken or Uneven Sidewalks in Neighborhoods
Older neighborhoods like Fifeville, Belmont, and North Downtown have pathways with cracked or unstable concrete slabs. These broken sections create an imbalance that pedestrians may not see, especially at night.
Though you can prevent outdoor injuries, some pathways have loose, crumbling pavement that can cause you to lose footing. According to the centers for disease control, the risk of falling and sustaining injuries is worse for people aged 65 and above. Landlords and local authorities must maintain the road network within communities to help reduce this risk.
Faulty Stairs and Handrails in Rental Properties and Offices
Rental properties and town offices may have damaged staircases. The treads and risers on staircases can easily crack or chip. When this happens, individuals moving in haste or carrying heavy items can trip over. Handrails can also rust, detach, or break and become wobbly. These pose safety risks as the rail then fails to provide the necessary support when someone holds on to them.
Wet Floors in Restaurants and Malls
Diners and shoppers must be cautious when walking in restaurants and malls. These high-traffic environments have a constant stream of customers who mess up floors with dirt and spills. To maintain a sanitary environment, cleaners mop at regular intervals, leading to wet and slippery floors. If you don’t walk cautiously after a clean-up, there are high chances of sliding on wet tiles, resulting in serious bodily harm.
Lighting Issues in Walkways and Apartment Complexes
Poor placement of lighting fixtures in apartments and walkways is a premises liability issue that affects visibility. Aside from this, other common lighting issues are flickering lights and dim and burnt-out bulbs. These issues result in poor illumination, which prevents people from seeing clearly. Without visibility, it becomes harder to observe and avoid safety hazards, making it much easier for you to crash into an object or tumble and get injured.
Loose Rugs in Hotels
Hotels place rugs at their entrances and in rooms for a touch of style. However, since they are unstable surfaces that can wrinkle, they may shift when people step on them. The raised edge of a rug may stick to your footwear and cause you to stumble. When placed on hardwood floors or tiles, rugs without an anti-slip backing have the tendency to slide. Such unexpected movement can lead to indoor accidents and severe personal injury.
Cluttered Hallways in Public Buildings
Unorganized boxes and equipment in open hallways take up space and restrict movement. Distracted passersby can walk into these obstacles and trip. Even those who see them may stumble into other objects while trying to walk around.
Government entities and private property owners are responsible for maintaining safety standards, so if you fall due to their negligence, you have legal rights to file a claim. To pursue compensation, consult your attorney to help you build a case. You can also Contact The Warren Firm in Charlottesville, Virginia, who has tried more than 100 injury cases.
Endnote
A slip and fall is a dangerous and embarrassing accident. It mostly happens when sidewalks, stairs, and railings are damaged or floors are wet. Lighting issues, loose rugs, and cluttered passages also cause people to trip and get injured. Depending on where you fall and what causes it, you can get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
