Stairs help us climb from one place to another, and we tend to find them everywhere. However, having an accident on a staircase can be extremely dangerous, leading to catastrophic injuries or even death.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the leading cause of non-fatal injuries in the United States are falls, and staircases are a very common place for these types of accidents to occur.
It is important to take the necessary precautions to avoid accidents on the staircases whether at home, at work, or anywhere else we may visit.
Common Causes of Ladder Accidents
Staircase accidents can be caused by a number of factors, but some of the most common causes include:
· Slippery surfaces or uneven surfaces. When there are spills of water or any other liquid, rain, snow, oil, etc., staircases can become slippery, and present a serious risk for people to fall. On the other hand, if staircases have uneven surfaces, or some steps are broken, it is easier for people to trip and fall.
· Missing or broken handrails. Handrails can provide us with support when using the stairs, allowing us to have better balance and stability. If the handrails are broken, improperly installed, or there are simply no handrails, people will have nothing to hold on to if they lose their balance or trip.
· Bad lighting. Having good lighting is crucial in places where there are stairs. People need to be able to see where they are going, and what changes there may be on the stairs to avoid falling.
· Obstructions. It is important to keep a staircase clear of obstacles. Things like boxes, trash, debris, or any other items left on the stairs can create a serious trip and fall hazard.
If you or a loved one have been in a staircase accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, contact us today. We can help you review your case and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
