Slips, trips, and falls happen every day. Some of these incidents are due to clumsiness or bad luck, but many only occur due to negligence. When a property owner fails to remove or address a fall hazard, they could be liable for any damages that occur as a result.
When you receive an injury from slipping and falling due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to pursue financial compensation. Filing a civil suit might be daunting, but a dedicated attorney could help you navigate the suit and go over the following common causes of slip and falls in Katy.
How Wet Floors Cause Slips and Falls
Wet and slippery floors are by far the most common cause of falling accidents in Katy. When hard surfaces like concrete are wet, it becomes much more difficult to maintain traction while walking. Some causes of wet floors include the following:
- Rain
- Flooding
- Spilled drinks
- Mopped floors
- Moisture collection
- Leaking cleaning fluid
In addition to wet floors, uneven surfaces can also result in serious injuries. A single misstep can cause a person to lose their balance and fall. Some of these factors might include:
- Potholes
- Torn carpeting
- Loose floorboards
- Cracked pavement
An attorney could go over more of these factors and causes of slip and fall injuries.
Poor Building Conditions and Falling Accidents
The failure to adequately design or maintain a commercial or residential building commonly results in falls in Katy. One condition that many people might consider in these cases is inadequate lighting. When structures are dark or dimly lit, it can be impossible for a person to navigate the area carefully. This is especially true in stairwells and other locations with changes in elevation.
Poor maintenance on stairs and banisters can also lead to a fall. For example, loose steps or missing handrails can make it difficult for anyone to navigate a stairwell carefully. It is up to the property owner or occupier to make certain the conditions of the building are suitable for visitors.
Improper Footwear
Another common factor in slips and falls is people in Katy wearing improper footwear. The right footwear can be the difference between a fun afternoon and a serious injury in many situations. For example, wearing boots or sneakers on a hike or even just on uneven terrain is an easy way to prevent an injury.
Additionally, wearing the wrong footwear to work could cause devastating consequences. Industrial facilities generally require closed-toed shoes with the ability to grip the floor because these types of shoes prevent slip and fall accidents.
Weather Conditions
Slip and fall accidents are also very common during severe weather in Katy, specifically during heavy rains. However, the largest threat is often accumulated precipitation following a storm. When rainwater pools on sidewalks or in parking lots, it carries a serious risk of injury. The same is true for accumulated snow or ice following a winter storm. When a property owner fails to take reasonable steps to address these risks, they may be liable for any injuries that occur.
Speak With an Attorney in Katy About Common Causes of Slip and Falls
If you have fallen and suffered an injury through no fault of your own, a civil lawsuit might be the answer. Understanding the common causes of slip and falls in Katy can put you in a strong position to get the most out of your claim. Call right away to discuss your options with an attorney during a confidential consultation.