Slip-and-fall accidents are fairly common among California residents, especially those in older age brackets. Falls may lead to severe injuries that may take a long time to heal. Both individuals and companies may face legal responsibility for accidents that happen on their property. There are many factors that may increase the risk of slip-and-fall accidents. Eliminating these common issues may help protect older adults from falls and related injuries.
Falls are frequent among adults over 65 years old and may lead to significant injuries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that 3 million older adults seek emergency room treatment every year for fall-related injuries. According to CDC statistics, about 20% of falls lead to injuries, including broken bones and head trauma. Falls often have serious health-related consequences, such as hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries. The medical costs related to falls are significant as well. In 2015, the cost for medical care related to falls was over $50 billion.
While individuals may take their own precautions while walking to avoid losing their footing, environmental factors may significantly affect a person’s risk of a slip-and-fall accident. According to FindLaw, there are several conditions that may contribute to a slip-and-fall. Poor outdoor lighting is a common, but frequently overlooked, factor. Without proper lighting, it may be harder for individuals to recognize curbs or avoid cracks in paved surfaces. Other things that may lead to falls in outdoor areas include holes in sidewalks and uneven parking lot surfaces. Reducing the risk of falls is important for owners of commercial and residential properties, especially in those locations that often accommodate older individuals. Installing proper lighting and maintaining safe conditions on paved surfaces may significantly reduce falls and related injuries.