Slip and fall accidents occur when property owners fail to maintain their premises or to put proper warnings of the potential dangers present in their premises. What type of slip and fall an accident is classified falls into two categories: How they occur and Where they occur.

How they occur
One way of describing slip and fall accidents is on how they happen. Some of the more common examples include:

Wet and slippery floors – These can occur due to spillages, weather elements, leakages, a collection of moisture, and more. According to the CDC, wet and slippery floors frequently happen among healthcare workers. For property owners, floors should regularly be mopped, and signs should be placed to warn people when floors are wet and slippery.

Cluttered floors – Common in offices, large shops, and people’s homes. Premises must be maintained and be clear of trip hazards such as small objects; this is common in workplaces where small objects (pens and other tools) are frequently passed around.

Icy walkways – It is the legal responsibility of a property owner to remove snow and ice from steps, sidewalks, parking lots, stairs and other areas where people must walk that could be covered in snow or ice during the winter season.

Damaged stairs and floors – Both domestic and commercial property owners must make sure that stairs, floors, and other walkways in their property are in excellent condition. Loose floorboards or tiles, torn mats and carpets and broken handrails all contribute to slip and fall accidents in these locations.

Inadequate lighting – Poor lighting causes people to trip over objects, miss warning signs and be unable to recognize changes in the walking surface or the presence of obstacles.

Damaged sidewalks – Overtime, sidewalks can weather and get cracked or be out of shape. These small changes in its surface can cause tripping and falling.

Ditches and potholes – These must be filled, covered, or marked with a warning sign or fenced.

Where they occur
Another element to describing the type of slip and fall accident is where they happen. These accidents can happen in any number of locations including the following:

Stores – Store managers are legally responsible for making sure hazards are removed and place warning signs near any possible hazard such as wet floors.

Restaurants – Similar to store managers. Cluttered floors are also a possible hazard in restaurants.

Stadiums, arenas, and theaters – With their various walkways and paths towards different areas of the structure, these places have to be adequately lit, and be cleared of clutter.

Parks and playgrounds – Children and adults are at risk. Park benches and paths must be cleared, and warning signs are placed in case of hazardous conditions.

Workplaces – Tools, office supplies, and other objects are common hazards in the workplace.

Homes – People can slip and fall at home, due to any number of causes mentioned earlier. Older people tend to be more at risk especially when living alone.

If you or anyone you know has experienced a slip and fall injury, where the property owner or manager has known of the hazard that caused it and did not make any reasonable steps to correct it, you may have a legal claim. Contact an experienced slip and fall attorney to consult with your case.