How Can I Avoid Becoming a Florida Stairwell Injury Statistic?

A:

Contrary to popular belief, stairwell injuries don’t just happen to the elderly and the disabled. Nearly half of all personal injuries happen on stairwells, and many serious stairwell injuries have happened to young, able-bodied people in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Slips and falls can keep you out of work for a few weeks, or in extreme cases, result in permanent disfigurement. We take these accidents very seriously. In other posts, we have explained premises liability and how property owners can keep stairwells safe. 

Here are some questions that residents can ask themselves to prevent a stairwell injury in Florida. If you feel that a staircase is unsafe, you should consider using an elevator and alert the property owner.

• Do You See a Handrail?

Grip the handrail firmly for the whole duration of your trip on the stairs. If you use a walker or a cane, do not attempt to walk up or down the stairs without assistance.

• Do You See an Environmental Hazard?

Outdoor stairwells can hold puddles, leaves, or patches of ice. Indoor stairwells can hold grease, unused detergent, or other contaminants. These hazards can reduce traction and cause a slip.

• Are You Wearing the Right Footwear?

Wear shoes with traction and stable soles if you plan on taking the stairs. Certain kinds of shoes, especially high heels or flip-flops, have low traction, and leave you vulnerable to a slip.

• Is There Enough Lighting?

If you can’t see the steps and landings clearly, you may not be able to see hazards that could make you slip, trip, or fall.

• Are Any Obstacles in Your Way?

Debris or garbage left on the stairs can make it more likely for you to trip.

If you have been injured on an unsafe stairwell, you need to speak with a Florida premises liability lawyer. Call 1-800-GOLD-LAW for a free legal consultation.