There’s no such thing as a “little” slip and fall. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that one out of every five falls leads to serious injuries. Hip fractures, head wounds, broken limbs and facial and dental injuries are common results.
Property owners and managers have a certain legal responsibility to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition for those who are expected to visit – but the parking lots, garages and other outdoor areas surrounding a lot of businesses don’t always get the attention they deserve. When that happens, the owners or managers of stores, apartment complexes, hotels and entertainment venues can sometimes be held liable for the injuries people suffer.
What are some of the biggest hazards?
Common causes of preventable falls include:
- Weather conditions: Weather plays a significant role in outdoor slip and fall accidents. Rain, ice, snow (albeit uncommon in Georgia) and sleet can create hazardous conditions. Accumulated water or ice on walkways can lead to slippery surfaces, making it easier for people to lose their footing.
- Poor lighting: Inadequate outdoor lighting can be a contributing factor to slip and fall accidents. Insufficient illumination in parking lots, walkways and staircases can make it difficult for people to see hazards and obstacles.
- Uneven surfaces: Cracked sidewalks, potholes, loose paving stones and other irregularities on walking surfaces can pose significant risks. Uneven surfaces can cause passersby and guests to trip and fall, resulting in significant injuries.
- Lack of maintenance: Neglected outdoor areas around apartment complexes, such as areas with overgrown vegetation, fallen branches or debris, can become dangerous obstacles. Junk left in the grass where people walk could be another issue.
- Inadequate signage: Proper signage is crucial in alerting people to potential hazards. Failure to post warnings about wet floors, construction zones or other known dangers can increase the likelihood of accidents.
If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident while you were on another’s property, the consequences of that fall could impact your life for a very long time. If you believe that a property’s owner or manager could have done more to prevent your injuries, it may be time to seek additional legal guidance.
