How to Identify Slip and Fall Hazards in Public Places
When we venture out into a public space, we deserve the right to a safe environment. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Slip and fall accidents can be caused by a number of different hazards that you should look out for the next time you’re out and about.
If you’ve ever been injured in a slip and fall accident, you know how painful the recovery can be. In order to avoid having a slip and fall accident in the first place, there are some common hazards you can look out for. Keep reading today’s blog to learn more about how to identify slip and fall hazards in public places.
Watch Your Step
When you’re visiting a place of business, the owner of that business should have taken steps to ensure that the floor is safe to walk on. However, you should always keep an eye out for slippery or wet surfaces. A few examples of what could cause this include a spilled liquid, a freshly cleaned floor, or rainwater that has been tracked indoors. If you notice a slippery area of floor, be sure to alert the owner or manager.
Warning Signage
As mentioned above, when an owner or manager is alerted to a potential floor hazard, they have an obligation to take steps to remedy the situation. Always look out for signs that indicate an area might be slippery. The most common sign you’ll see is a bright yellow “Caution: Wet Floor” sign usually placed near a slippery surface. There may be other signs alerting you of some kind of slip and fall hazard, so keep an eye out.
Lighting and Visibility
One of the biggest contributors to slip and fall accidents is poor lighting and visibility. If visibility is low, it can be harder to spot hazards on the floor or some form of cautionary sign. If you notice a poorly lit area, be sure to alert the property manager so that they can remedy the issue. You can always use the flashlight feature on your phone if you feel unsafe walking through a dark or dimly lit area.
Footwear
Another factor that can help you avoid a slip and fall accident is wearing proper footwear. If you wear shoes with high heels or worn out soles, your odds of getting into a slip and fall accident increase. If you wear shoes with good traction, you have a better chance of staying upright when encountering a wet or slippery floor. While there are many hazards you should watch out for, wearing the right shoes is one preventative measure you can take before you even walk out the door.
Slip and fall injuries can be devastating to recover from. If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident, call 1-800-411-PAIN. If you’ve been involved in an accident, the guidance from a personal injury attorney could help navigate the aftermath. It is helpful to have legal and medical experts on your side. The experts at 1-800-411-PAIN can help explain your options, fight for the compensation you deserve, and guide you through a swift recovery.
If you or a loved person has been injured in an accident, call 1-800-411-PAIN today. Our legal professionals can help you navigate the tricky process of filing an insurance claim. Our medical professionals are here to provide you with the treatment you need. Remember, after 911, call 411.