It is a common misconception that slip and fall accidents primarily happen to senior citizens in hospitals or nursing homes. The truth is that people of all ages are involved in slip and fall accidents. The key is understanding how these accidents happen, and where to be extra careful. A general tip is to always watch the floor when you walk, especially in areas of high foot traffic.
Shockingly, slip and fall accidents are one of the leading causes of brain injury. It may not seem it, but a slip and fall accident can be extremely dangerous and detrimental to your life.
HERE ARE 4 HIGH FOOT TRAFFIC AREAS TO WATCH OUT FOR!
1.) RESTAURANTS
Restaurants can be dangerous! Since food and drinks are being delivered to and from tables, there are always spills. When a spill isn’t cleaned up promptly, it is a walking hazard. It is the restaurant staff’s duty to ensure the safety of the guests, so ideally they will take care of it before it becomes an issue. Always be sure to watch the floor when you are at a restaurant, as there is always the chance a piece of food or a spilled beverage will catch you off guard and cause a fall.
2.) MALLS
A mall outing can be very fun! With such a wide variety of restaurants, stores, and activities, it is difficult not to find something that interests you. Due to their large size, it can be difficult for mall employees to manage walking conditions effectively. Of course, it is their job to do so, but it is always smart to be on the lookout for your own safety. Pay attention to areas with food, beverages, or entrances and exits. If it is snowing or raining outside, people can track water in and make the floor extremely slippery.
3.) GROCERY STORES
Are you seeing a theme? Food and beverage spills are dangerous, and you should always practice caution when you see something has spilled, or that the floor is wet or covered in a foreign substance. Similar to black ice on a road, it can be difficult to see where there may be a spill or dangerous walking conditions.
Although it isn’t your responsibility, it may be wise to alert staff that there is a dangerous walking condition. This not only will keep you safe but will prevent other individuals from being injured.
4.) HOTELS
Not only are liquids/food an issue in hotels, but rugs and decorations are dangerous as well. Most hotels have carpeting, rugs, plants, tables, and other decorations to ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. Sometimes these decorations can be nudged or moved into a position that is dangerous.
For example, if there is an entrance rug to dry your feet off at the front desk, shuffling of feet may cause the rug to bunch up. Curled and bunched up rugs are a huge tripping hazard and can be difficult to see unless you are watching out for it.
The key is to always be alert and aware of your surroundings. If you do find yourself a victim of a slip and fall accident, proving that the establishment you had the accident was liable for can be extremely difficult. Contact us if you have been in such an accident, and we can help you get the compensation you deserve.