How Property Owners Can Minimize Slip and Fall Hazards
A slip and fall lawyer works with people who have accidents from unsafe property conditions. Property owners can minimize accidents by using certain materials and removing hazards. Philly Slip and Fall Guys has decades of experience handling slip and fall claims. Here are some suggestions for property owners to minimize slip and fall hazards:
Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Poorly maintained properties can pose a bigger risk for a slip and fall accident. Regularly check walkways, steps, and parking lots to inspect for cracks or uneven surfaces. Repair any loose tiles or holes quickly, and make sure any debris from other projects is removed. Establishing a regular inspection plan helps keep a thorough eye on things and catch potential problems before an accident occurs. Performing maintenance in harsh weather climates during winter will help avoid slippery sidewalks and any potential accidents. This includes removing snow and using de-icing products on walkways.
Excess debris, leaves, and mud can also contribute to accidents. Rake or sweep pine needles, leaves, and grass clippings. Remove or renovate areas with loose gravel or dirt that could turn into dirt or slip under shoes with inadequate traction. A slip-and-fall lawyer will look into these types of areas during their case.
Install Adequate Lighting
Sufficient lighting provides visibility that can help pedestrians avoid potential slip and fall accidents. Stairways, sidewalks, and parking areas should have enough light for individuals to safely find their way after dark. Observe your property regularly and at different times of day to determine which areas need additional lighting. Make sure to change any burnt-out bulbs quickly to reduce the risk of an accident.
Place Non-Slip Surfaces
Rain, ice, and snow can make surfaces slippery and dangerous. Invest in non-slip surface measures to lower the likelihood of a slip and fall by providing adequate grip for pedestrians. Non-slip paint or sealers, anti-slip tape, and liquid rubber are all options that can be installed fairly easily to create a more textured surface. Depending on the type of weather, focus on areas that may be prone to slippery surfaces, including stairs. Adding handrails and grab bars on ramps adds additional safety to these areas.
Use Warning Signs and Barriers
When examining a case, a slip and fall lawyer like those at Philly Slip and Fall Guys looks at photo evidence to determine the property owner’s role. Not having enough signs or barriers could hurt your defense. Use posted signage to warn about wet areas or spills. For larger issues like a drainage problem, flood, or major leak, use temporary barriers to block off an area.
Learn from a Slip and Fall Lawyer
The consequences of having a slip and fall accident on your property might include paying damages and covering medical expenses or physical therapy costs. Philly Slip and Fall Guys has helped clients for more than thirty years with claims that happened in apartment buildings. With the right measures, property owners can minimize risks and keep individuals safe. Contact Philly Slip and Fall Guys for more information on slip and fall accidents and how property owners can be held liable.
