Tips for Avoiding Slips, Trips, and Falls at Home, Work or Play

 Posted on April 27, 2016 in Personal Injury

Slips, trips, and falls can happen to anyone at any age. They are the leading cause of injury-related death among the elderly, and a recent study on falls among college undergraduates showed that 58 percent experienced some sort of slip, trip, or fall over the course of 16 weeks. Moreover, data from the National Floor Safety Institute shows that falls account for 21.3 percent of all emergency room visits (approximately eight million visits per year), making it the leading reason people visit. So, whether you are at home, work, or play, it is important to know how to best avoid them.

Common Causes of Slips, Trips, and Falls

Despite common theory, slips, trips, and falls typically occur on the same level, not stairways or other elevated surfaces. Common causes include debris (power cords, clutter, loose rugs, etc.) and surfaces that are either slick or uneven (ice, snow, water, etc.). Improper footwear, failure to use safety devices such as handrails, and distracted walking can also be contributing factors. To prevent falls from these causes:

• Keep walkways and aisles clear of debris;
• Wear proper footwear at all times, especially during the winter;
• Use all handrails and other safety devices when available;
• Avoid stringing power cords through walking areas;
• Secure all rugs within the home;
• Avoid engaging in other activities while walking; and
• Pay close attention to changes in flooring or walkways (grass to sidewalk, carpet to tile, etc.).

Where Slips, Trips, and Falls Happen

Incidents of slips, trips, or falls can happen almost anywhere, but they are especially common in the workplace, at home, and in nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Specifically, around 12 to 15 percent of all workers’ compensation claims include an injury sustained through a slip, trip or fall; half of all accidental deaths in the home are the result of a fall; and more than 60 percent of all nursing home residents experience a fall.

Unfortunately, there is not much that can be done to prevent falls, slips, or trips in locations that you cannot control. Due diligence and proper footwear may help, but if an incident happens, then it is critical that you know your rights and seek medical treatment if injured. Additionally, to pursue compensation for medical costs and other expenses, contact the skilled DuPage County personal injury attorneys at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices to schedule your free consultation today.

Sources:

http://dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3487458/Do-struggle-stay-two-feet-Study-finds-humans-surprisingly-bad-WALKING-trip-slip-over.html

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/walkingworkingsurfaces/

https://nfsi.org/nfsi-research/quick-facts/

http://saif.com/_files/safetyhealthguides/s918_sliptripfall_book.pdf