Unfortunately, over one million Americans are admitted to emergency rooms for injuries related to staircases. Common injuries sustained include fractures, brain injuries and spinal cord injuries among others. If you sustained injuries because of the property owner’s negligence, you have the right to file a lawsuit and get compensation. However, for the claim to be successful, you will need to prove that the property owner caused the incident because of their actions or inactions.
If you want a property owner to be held liable for your injuries and losses, you will have to prove that they caused the hazardous condition that made you lose your balance and trip. Moreover, if the owner was aware of the danger but did nothing to remove it, he or she may be held liable. Additionally, you should prove that the owner should have known about the hazard on their property because any responsible person would have noticed the condition and repaired or removed it instantly.
The owner has a high duty of care to invitees like business partners and licensees such as social guests. He or she must ensure their properties are safe for everyone and do not have any dangers. However, if you are a trespasser, then the owner is not legally required to protect you. They only need to avoid intentionally harming you. There are several causes of a slip and fall accidents on a staircase to be aware of to ensure your own safety.
Wet surfaces
Surfaces that have high-polished wood, are wet or have worn carpets can cause tripping. If the floors have hazards such as water, ice or other hazards, the owners must remove them to avoid dangerous incidents from occurring.
Inadequate lighting
People may find it difficult to see the next step or even the handrail if there is poor lighting in the vicinity. Walking up or down the steps under inadequate lighting is more dangerous and can lead to nasty incidents and sustaining injuries.
Broken or loose handrails
Every building must have proper handrails to provide support. Old buildings may have old or weak handrails that can collapse when minor weight is exerted on them. If you lose your balance and sustain injuries because of missing, weak or faulty handrails, you can file a lawsuit against the building owner.
Obstructions
Objects that have been left on the floors such as loose electrical cords, box tools or any other thing can cause a tripping hazard. If the owners or operators are aware of the dangerous hazard left behind, they should either remove them or put up signs to warn people about the danger.
Step height and depth
Poorly built steps in a building which are uneven may result in tripping.
Conclusion
If you sustained injuries due to dangerous and defective steps in buildings, you should talk with a lawyer about the legal options you can pursue. When you file a claim and it becomes successful, you can gain compensation for damages such as lost wages, emotional distress, medical bills, reduction in quality of life, physical pain and suffering and disability among others.