April is here which means so are April rain showers and increased risks of slip and fall accidents due to wet ground and floors.
Slips and falls cause 15% of all deaths, second to motor vehicle accidents. Following these precautions can reduce your risk of being injured in a slip and fall accident.
- When you come into an area from outdoors in rainy weather, wipe your shoes thoroughly on a doormat to prevent the wetness of your shoes from making you slip and, perhaps fall.
- When walking on a wet surface, don’t turn too sharply when changing your direction.
- Be on the lookout for water on the floor. Even small quantities of water, sometimes almost too small to see, can be slippery.
- Use handrails especially during inclement weather.
- Don’t carry objects up or down steps that may obstruct your view of water on the stairs.
- Walk where you are supposed to walk. Don’t take shortcuts; especially don’t take shortcuts through areas where its obvious pedestrian traffic is not intended to go.
- Always try and wear the best non-skid shoe possible, especially paying attention to bad weather. Shoes that have worn, smooth soles should not be worn.
- Avoid high heals during inclement weather. Select something that has a large surface area, which has good traction.
- Being alert is one of the surest ways to reduce injuries caused by slips and falls. This includes being aware of your environment, personal safety, and the safety of co-workers. Be safety-conscious.
If you have sustained an injury as a result of a slip and fall caused by the condition of the property, you may be entitled to compensation. Speak to a lawyer right away.