Slip and Fall Accidents Can Be Debilitating and Costly to Treat
Slip and fall accidents often cause broken bones and paralysis – especially for the elderly. In addition to the health-care bills, many victims cannot return to work. In fact, according to the National Floor Safety Institute, slips and falls are the primary causes of lost days from work.
Most slip and fall accidents are preventable, but many property owners put off basic maintenance, or they do not fix hazards until they cause injuries. If you or a loved one was injured in a slip and fall, contact Morris Bart.
You may be entitled to compensation for lost income, medical expenses and other damages. A Gulfport personal-injury attorney from Morris Bart can evaluate your accident and help you navigate the claims process. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a consultation.
Until then, read on to learn three ways to prevent a slip and fall from happening on your property:
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Keep Your Property Clean
Disorganization often contributes to slips and falls in both homes and businesses. According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, a responsible cleaning schedule can help prevent these accidents.
If you work in an environment that is prone to wet patches, ice or spills, be sure to clean excess moisture as soon as possible. If you cannot take immediate action, post warning signs in easy-to-notice places to help other people avoid injuries.
Clutter and debris can be just as dangerous as spills. A neat, orderly work environment not only improves productivity but also can prevent slips and falls. Common hazards include empty boxes, unnecessary furniture in hallways, wires and electrical extension cords.
Make sure there are no loose mats or rugs on the floor. Also, your carpets should lay flat without curling edges or corners.
Inspect the Flooring
Some walking surfaces, such as tiles, are inherently dangerous. A small amount of water can create a slip and fall hazard.
You should conduct regular inspections of all flooring on your property. If you notice a spill or a tripping hazard, remove it immediately.
Also, consider installing a non-slip floor, or coat your floors with an abrasive paint. If only a small area is slippery or difficult to walk on, install a mat, carpet or abrasive strips for better grip.
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Encourage Appropriate Footwear
You should always wear shoes that are appropriate for the walking surface. Make sure your footwear has adequate tread. If you work in a place with a lot of slipping hazards, such as a hospital or restaurant kitchen, consider purchasing shoes that were designed for your specific profession.
In addition to wearing appropriate footwear, you should encourage others to do the same. This is particularly important if you are managing employees or allowing customers to enter your premises.
If you were injured in a slip and fall, contact a Gulfport accident lawyer from Morris Bart. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.