Photo of Sarah A. Phillips and Bradley S. Phillips

Were you injured because of a tripping hazard?

On Behalf of | Apr 9, 2023 | Personal Injury |

On the weekend, you and your family like to go out and enjoy yourselves. Whether you are in a bar, restaurant, theater or shopping mall, you are entitled to be safe.

In the U.S, falls are the top cause of accidental injuries. Some falls cannot be avoided, but most of them can. Outlined below are some of the more common tripping hazards in public spaces.

Damaged flooring

It’s essential for public spaces to have floors that are in good condition and do not increase the risk of trips and falls. A damaged floor tile, loose carpet and loose cords all create dangerous tripping hazards.

Poor lighting

Certainly, you should be able to see where you are going in public places. Some venues try to create an ambience by having dim lighting. This is fine, but you will not enjoy the atmosphere if you fall over because you couldn’t see. Property owners must find a balance between aesthetics and safety. If a light is broken, then fixing it should be prioritized.

Storage issues

Some businesses have a lot of stock, and it can be hard to keep this all in one place. With space being limited, there may be a temptation to leave boxes in aisles. This is never a good idea, particularly near stairways. A customer could fail to notice the obstacle and fall as a result.

If you have been injured in a fall, then the property owner may be liable for negligence. Seek legal guidance to find out if you can claim compensation for expenses and other damages.