Slip and falls are always dangerous, but when these accidents happen on staircases, the inherent danger is obviously amplified. Going up and downstairs has some danger built into it, and that is why handrails are there in the first place. When staircases are poorly maintained or otherwise dangerous, it makes serious accidents that much more likely.
Slip and Falls: The Statistics
The National Safety Council shares that falls are the third leading cause of unintentional deaths related to injuries. And they are the leading cause for employees in certain industries. The fact is that falls are not only common but can also be deadly. Further, falls from heights, such as from ladders, stairs, and scaffolding, are more dangerous still.
Do Not Take Stairs for Granted
In our daily lives, most of us go up and downstairs – at home, in businesses, in parking ramps, and at work – many, many times each day. You are probably at the point that you do not pay that much attention to the matter – after all, they are just stairs. Stairs, however, are inherently more dangerous than walking on flat surfaces, and they deserve your undivided attention. We have all seen the person running down the stairs – two at a time – while texting; do not be that person. One slip up, and you could be permanently injured or worse. Guardrails are there for a reason, so put safety first and use them – while paying attention to the task at hand.
When Staircases Are Unsafe
While it is true that stairs are naturally more dangerous, when staircases are not well maintained, are poorly designed, are poorly constructed, or are otherwise dangerous, it makes serious accidents far more likely. Conditions that frequently make staircases unsafe include:
- Staircases that are not designed with safety in mind
- Staircases that are poorly maintained
- Staircases that are structurally damaged
- Staircases that are not lit well enough
- Stair surfaces or coverings that are uneven, frayed, cracked, bunched, slippery, or worn
- Staircases that incorporate tripping hazards or are cluttered
- Staircases that are made slippery by rain, leaves, and/or debris that has been tracked in (the absence of adequate doormats can make the matter worse)
- Handrails that are either unstable, insecure, or altogether absent
Injured in Staircase Accident? Consult with an Experienced Attorney Today.
Slip and fall accidents are dangerous accidents, and when they happen on staircases, the odds of being seriously injured go up dramatically. If someone else’s negligence leaves you injured in a staircase accident, Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard in Killeen, Texas, is a formidable Killeen personal injury attorney who is committed to helping you obtain the compensation you need to make your fullest recovery. Mr. Pritchard is on your side, so please do not hesitate to contact us or call us at (254) 220-4225 for more information today.