Accident is an uninvited guest. So, it can happen anywhere at any time. A slip and fall accident is one of the most common types of personal injury claims. From a parking lot, to your workplace to a retail store, it can happen anywhere anytime. But the matter of concern is that it can cause devastating injuries that could have long-term effects. There is a high probability that you too may have tripped or lost balance and fell off while walking. 

Though most of the time, people assume that slipping and falling is their fault, that is not always the case. There are business owners, landlords, property owners, and other employees who may be irresponsible on their part. If slip and fall accidents occur because of others’ irresponsibility is referred to as a premises liability. If you are a victim of a slip and fall accident and not by your fault then you should be compensated by the responsible party. For this you should contact a slip and fall lawyer who will help you to get what you deserve.

There are many reasons which cause slip and fall accidents. 5 common causes of slip and fall accidents are given below –

1. Wet Surface

Wet surface is of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents globally. Wet, slippery floors are caused by water or other substances. Wet floor occurs in stores, restaurants and other retail locations as well as the workplace. For slip and fall incidents, icy sidewalks and parking lots can also be potentially dangerous. While rugs, mats, and carpets retain their traction, many harder materials become slippery when they get wet. So, they get challenged to walk on and accidents happen.

2. Uneven Surface

Most of us do not look at the ground while walking and if there is an uneven floor, we fall and become the victim of an accident. Uneven floors can have many causes, such as loose floorboards. Poor foundation is also a reason behind uneven ground or stairs. It can also happen for changing in texture, from floor to a rug. Dangerous slip and fall accidents are far more likely to occur when walkways are poorly maintained.

3. Poor Lighting

When we can’t see, we are more vulnerable to falls on all kinds of surfaces. In broad daylight, a floor that might not be harmful could be perilous in the dark. The property owner is responsible to make sure that walking areas are properly lit. Especially pool areas, walkways and sidewalks, garages and stairwells can be dangerous. If these areas are not properly lit then many people can be victims of fall and slip injuries. In such a case, the owner of the property will be held responsible for the accident.

4. Weather Conditions

Weather leads to a huge number of slip and fall accidents. But weather being a natural occurrence, it is impossible to control it. That is why it is among the leading reasons for slip and fall accidents in the world. Snow, sleet, rain, and ice can create dangerous conditions that increase the risk of falls on the outside areas of businesses and homes. However, even a sidewalk or driveway can become slippery during freak weather events.

5. Inadequate Training

To avoid slipping and falling while on duty, every employee and even employers must undergo proper training. Because in the construction industry, inadequate training is a common reason for most slips and fall accidents. Among the safety measures of construction site training is a key element. In order to remain safe, each job should be properly planned and workers should be provided with the tools they need. Otherwise, the employer or contractor is liable for damages.