Slip And Fall Accidents Are Common And Costly

Workplace-related slip and fall injuries occur when a person falls on the job and suffers a non-fatal or fatal injury. While many of us might think that accidental bumps are no big deal in the workplace, injuries resulting from slips and falls claim the lives of thousands every year.
 
Facts About Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip and falls injuries are more common than you might expect.

• According to estimates, there are over 8 million slip and fall accidents every year in the United States.
• 17,000 people died in 1999 after suffering a slip and fall accident.  
• 15 % of accidents in the workplace are slips or falls.
• Indirect costs of disabling injuries are estimated at over $46,000, while a death as a result of a slip and fall results in costs nearing $940,000.
• 55% of people over the age of 40 have had a slip and fall injury

Common Business Liabilities
Since slip and fall injuries are common in the workplace, it takes cooperation and vigilance to protect people from debilitating injuries. 

When it comes to floors, every business owner will have to mop and shine on a regular basis. If someone happens to slip and fall on a wet floor, he or she may need to hire a slip and fall lawyer to receive compensation for medical bills and related expenses. To avoid situations that could harm the business's reputation and damage the company’s morale, employers should use extra caution with floors, elevators, stairs, and escalators in their building.

Some common problems in the workplace that could lead to business liability include:

• warped stairs
• debris present on walking surfaces
• torn or damaged flooring
• uneven or excessive use of floor wax
• a failure to warn employees of possible slip and fall danger

How to Prevent Slips and Falls
For your own safety as well as others, consider these suggestions:

• Always wear shoes in the workplace with a slight tread. Schools and offices tend to have slippery flooring.
• Avoid icy patches by parking closer to your building and reporting all icy areas to the person in charge of maintenance.
• Properly mark wet floors, and clean or report spills upon detection.
• Do not stand on office furniture to retrieve anything, hang a photo, or fix something out of your reach.

If you'd like more information on preventing accidents in the workplace, review the CDC's Workplace Safety information online.

If you have been injured due to a slip and fall accident, complete our short questionnaire and get connected to slip and fall lawyers in your area who can explain your legal rights and options.