Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

UPDATE: Michigan Slip & Fall Law has changed. The information on this page was written prior to the change in the law and may be out of date. Please Click Here for updated information on the new law for Slip & Fall cases in Michigan.

Falls are a leading cause of serious injuries and deaths, resulting in more than 8 million emergency room visits and 800,000 hospitalizations each year. Additionally, falls cause more traumatic brain injuries and hip fractures than any other type of accident. The good news is that many falls can be prevented by taking certain precautionary measures against the most common slip and fall accident causes.

 Here is an overview of the hazardous conditions most likely to cause someone to slip, trip and fall. 

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Factors that Increase Your Risk of Falling

Most slip and fall accidents are caused by hazards such as broken concrete or icy sidewalks. However, there are certain health-related factors that may increase your risk of falling. Most falls are caused by a combination of factors. The more of these risk factors you have, the greater your chances of falling.

Because many of these conditions can be improved with proper treatment, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor if you have any of the following risk factors:

• Lower body weakness
• Difficulties with balance and stability
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Certain medications, both prescription and over-the-counter
• Vision problems
• Foot pain that affects your gait or ability to walk
• Footwear that affects your stability such as high heels or shoes with slippery soles

Recommended Reading: 30+ Tips for Preventing Slip, Trip and Fall Accidents at Home and at Work

Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents at Home

You may be surprised to learn that approximately 75% of falls happen in the home. Furthermore, 50% of all accidental deaths that occur at home are caused by falls.

Here are the hazards most likely to cause a slip and fall accident at home:

• Wet or newly waxed floors
• Loose carpets or throw rugs
• Objects left on the floor such as toys or shoes
• Cords passing through areas where people walk
• Cluttered rooms without proper spacing between furniture  
• Icy or snowy steps porches, walks or driveways
• Inadequate outdoor lighting
• Insufficient lighting on stairs or hallways
• Lack of grab bars in the bathroom
• Absence of non-slip treads or bath mat in the tub and shower

Recommended Reading: Slip, Trip and Fall Accidents: List of Surprising Statistics 

Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents in the Workplace  

More than 700 workers die each year and many more are seriously hurt as a result of slipping, tripping and falling. However, many of these accidents can be prevented by taking basic safety precautions.

Here are the hazardous conditions that cause the majority of work-related falls:   

• Wet/slippery floors caused by spills or ice and snow
• Uneven floor surfaces
• Obstacles on the floor in aisles or walkways, including cords, cables and equipment
• Loose or broken stairs or handrails
• Inadequate lighting
• Improper training

Hazards Most Likely to Cause Slip and Fall Accidents in Your Apartment Building

In Michigan, landlords have a duty to keep their rental properties free of dangerous conditions likely to cause people to be injured. Here are the most common hazards responsible for slip and fall accidents in apartment complexes. Depending on the circumstances, any of these could be grounds for a slip and fall lawsuit.

• Damaged or lopsided steps
• Loose handrails on staircases
• Icy parking lots or sidewalks
• Parking lot potholes
• Broken or uneven concrete on sidewalks or landings
• Loose mats, rugs or carpets in entryways, laundry rooms and other common areas
• Slippery surfaces near swimming pools
• Inadequate lighting
• Poorly maintained elevators

Contact an Experienced Slip and Fall Lawyer Today

If you were injured in a slip and fall accident on someone else’s property, contact us as soon as possible. The Sam Bernstein Law Firm legal team understands the complexities of slip and fall cases and we will fight to win the compensation you deserve. 

Slip and fall law is complicated, but finding the right slip and fall accident attorney is simple.

Start your case today by clicking the button below to fill out a brief form or calling 1-800-CALL-SAM for a free, no-obligation remote consultation from the safety of your home.

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