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If you own property or a business, you should know that a slip and fall can cost a significant amount of money. In this blog post, a slip and fall lawyer will share:
- What premises liability is;
- Who may be responsible for the slip and fall; and
- How you can minimize the risk as the owner.
This is an important topic so let’s get started.
What Is Premises Liability?
Premises liability exists in law that makes property owners responsible for accidents or injuries that occur on the property. Often when someone slips and falls, it is because of a dangerous condition at the location. For example, broken concrete on the sidewalk or entrance or snow, rain, or ice accumulation creates the risk of slipping and falling. Of course, there are other ways that a slip and fall may occur. Those are just two simple examples from our friends at Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC.
Common Causes Of Slip And Fall Accidents
While broken concrete and accumulated snow or ice are common causes of slip and fall accidents, several other hazards can lead to injuries on your property. Understanding these risks can help you identify potential issues before they cause harm. Some other common causes include:
- Wet or Slippery Floors: Spills, recently mopped floors, or leaks can create slippery surfaces that increase the risk of falls. It’s essential to clean up spills promptly and use warning signs to alert visitors of wet floors.
- Uneven Surfaces: Uneven flooring, loose rugs, or mats can cause people to trip and fall. Ensure that all flooring is even and secure, and replace any worn or damaged mats.
- Cluttered Walkways: Items left in walkways, such as boxes, cords, or debris, can cause trips and falls. Keep walkways clear and free of obstacles.
- Poor Lighting: Inadequate lighting can make it difficult for people to see potential hazards, increasing the risk of falls. Ensure that all areas of your property, especially stairwells and entrances, are well-lit.
- Broken Handrails: Handrails provide support and stability, especially on stairs. If a handrail is loose or broken, it can lead to serious falls. Regularly inspect and repair handrails to ensure they are secure.
Who May Be Responsible For A Slip And Fall At A Business Or Property
If someone slips and falls inside or directly outside a business, there could be multiple potential defendants. This includes and is not limited to:
- The owner
- A supervisor or manager on duty
- An employee who knew about the hazard but did not put up warning signs or clean up the risk
How To Minimize Your Risk As A Property Or Business Owner
If you own a business or property, you can minimize your risk by:
- Creating a safety plan. This may include routine sweeps of the business or property to make sure that no fall hazards exist;
- Have a business plan that addresses how these hazards should be handled;
- If it’s personal property, such as a home or apartment complex, make sure that all steps are in good condition with no breakage;
- Make sure that there is good lighting.
Protect Your Bottom Line And Protect Others
If you own property or a business, you can minimize the impact to your bottom line by routinely checking for dangers and correcting them! However, if there is an accident on your property, contact a lawyer near you for help.