Business and property owners in Lake Worth, Florida are required to keep their buildings and grounds safe. Slip and falls account for a majority of accidents, and they can cause permanent injuries or death. There are several types of slip and fall accidents, and injured parties may seek compensation for any damages they suffer as a result.
Wet floors and walkways
The CDC reports wet floors or walkways commonly cause slip and falls. Precipitation, leaks, grease, water fountains and spilled liquids are among the most common reasons why a pedestrian walkway may become slippery and dangerous. Property owners have a duty to ensure their floors stay free from slip hazards and put up signs to warn customers when any such hazards are present.
Cluttered aisles and displays
The CDC reports that people over 65 years old suffer from the most injuries due to cluttered aisles, hip fractures being the most common injury. This happens because many customers do not expect these items to be there leading to them tripping and falling. Equipment and items on floors in areas of heavy customer foot traffic should be moved immediately.
Large displays usually showcase items to attract customers, but they often block aisles and distract attention from potential objects on floors. Injuries from cluttered aisles could cause traumatic brain injury, lacerations, sprains, and neck injury. If items cannot be removed immediately, the owner should alert customers of the potential danger or barricade the area.
Uneven surfaces
Stats show uneven surfaces make up 55% of trips and falls. Torn carpeting, broken floorboards, broken stairs, floor mats, defective handrails and ragged parking lots can make a visitor trip and fall. In some cases, tree roots have overgrown, making a walkway a tripping hazard.
These accidents commonly occur because the owner has neglected to fix them. Some common injuries from tripping over uneven surfaces include concussions, broken bones, fractures, brain damage and pelvic and hip injuries.
Slips and falls don’t always make a property owner liable, because several factors must be proven. Injured parties should seek the services of a lawyer to help determine negligence.