Staircase Accidents and How to Avoid Them

Staircase accidents are a common personal injury claim. Especially in this day and age, when we’re easily distracted that we don’t notice our surroundings and not notice a hazard until it’s too late. But, what happens if you are injured in a fall on the stairs? Do you know how to protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries?

The most common causes of staircase accidents are:

• Wet stairs caused by ice, snow, rain, leaking pipes, and spills
• Poorly maintained stairs (poor railings, poor lighting, obstructions, hazards on the steps, missing steps, missing carpet, loose flooring, and more)
• The design of the stairs
• Behavior issues of those who use the stairs (carrying items, horsing around, intoxication, failure to concentrate, footwear, and more)
• Various factors of each individual user of the stairs (age, mobility, vision, fitness, and disability)

Even if you are incredibly aware and safe while on a staircase, you can still wind up suffering an injury, especially if the accident was caused by the carelessness of a property owner. This is why it’s important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can guide you through the legal water if your injury was caused by negligence.

Here are a few ways to avoid getting into a staircase accident.

• Always Pay Attention

The most important thing you can do when climbing or descending a staircase is to pay attention to. We all know the dangers of distracted driving. You can also become distracted while walking, especially if you are using your mobile phone. Avoid texting, writing, or reading emails, looking at videos, or making calls on your phone while using a staircase. If you’re not paying attention, you can easily trip and suffer an injury.

• Be on the Lookout for Hazards

As you climb or descend the staircase, you need to be on the lookout for any hazards that could lead to an injury. Hazards can include debris on the stairs, loose or missing floorboards, uneven carpeting, puddles, protruding nails or screws, missing handrails, and more. These hazards should be immediately reported to building maintenance or the property owner so that no one winds up getting hurt.

• Use a Flashlight

If you head toward a staircase that is poorly lit, you should either avoid it altogether or use your mobile phone’s flashlight app to light the way. Poor lighting can cause you to trip on any hazards mentioned in the previous section that could be present on the stairs.

• Take Your Time

Take your time when climbing or descending the staircase at home or in the office, especially if you are carrying anything. Do not run up or down the stairs. Walk as slowly and carefully as possible to avoid suffering an injury on the stairs. Also, avoid carrying too much at one time or anything that is too heavy. Heavy items could tip and cause you to fall down the stairs.

Contact The Law Offices of Anthony Carbone Today

Were you injured in a staircase accident? It doesn’t matter if the injury occurred in a private residence or in a commercial building, your rights are protected. With 30 years of experience, Attorney Carbone will help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation about your case today.