Height and the potential for the body to hit numerous hard surfaces before stopping are the two components of a slip and fall that often result in severe injuries on Florida stairways. Although you may traverse stairs frequently at work and when shopping, one misstep can result in a painful, and potentially, long-term recovery.
According to the National Safety Council, falls were the top cause of preventable nonfatal injuries in the U.S. in 2019.
Typical stairway accidents
Surface defects are among the most common causes of stairway accidents. The issue may be a loose tile, unstable or unsecured carpeting or uneven surface. Staircases must have handrails of a particular type and height. When installed properly, they help stabilize you as you go up and down the stairs. If they do not comply with regulations, they might contribute to the severity of the fall.
The height from one step to another should be the same. When the space between treads varies, it may result in loss of balance and a fall down the stairs. Wet or slick surfaces, debris on the tread, and inadequate lighting are often contributing factors to stairway accidents.
Common stairway injuries
Fractures of the foot or hip, broken ankles, and shoulder blade damage often result from a slip and fall on a staircase. A catastrophic injury may also result from a fall, such as the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries – A severe bump or jolt to the head could have severe physical and psychological long-term effects.
- Spinal column/cord injuries – Damage to the vertebrae might result in fractures or dislocations. If the bone or other object damages the nerves, it could result in paralysis and disruption in automatic functions, such as breathing.
- Nerve damage – Trauma caused to nerves by falling downstairs might result in burning, pain numbness and tingling in the extremities. Headaches and impaired motor function associated with the fall may require long-term treatment and rehabilitation.
Preventable injuries, such as a slip and fall on stairs, are often the result of negligence by the property owner or manager. Understanding your options might enable you to recover damages for lost wages and medical bills.
