What Causes Slipping in a Parking lot?
Slip and fall accidents in parking lots happen in commercial and urban areas. These accidents could be caused by conditions that the property owner or manager should have corrected. A slip and fall lawyer from Philly Slip and Fall Guys will represent those who have suffered injuries from such incidents. Here are a few causes of slipping in a parking lot:
Weather Hazards
Ice and snow contribute to parking lot slips during the winter months in Philadelphia. Melting snow can refreeze as temperatures drop to create black ice, making it difficult to see. This increases the risk of slips and falls in a parking lot. Piles of snow may melt during the day and freeze again overnight. This will lead to inconsistent surface conditions. These surfaces will remain hazardous without proper attention.
Property managers or owners should manage snow and ice removal consistently and in a timely manner. This process includes removing snow and applying salt or other de-icing substances. Walkways and parking spots remain unsafe if they are not cleared within a reasonable window of time. Property owners should also maintain safe access points near entrances and exits to the lot. Failure to keep these areas free of weather hazards could indicate poor maintenance practices.
Ongoing parking lot monitoring is required when low temperatures are present. A parking lot that was treated in the morning may be covered in ice or snow again by the afternoon. Managers and owners should regularly check for reaccumulation of hazards and repeat treatments when needed. Passive management during winter could lead to injury. If you need a slip and fall lawyer after an accident, Philly Slip and Fall Guys are experienced and will provide you with legal representation.
Poor Drainage
Improper drainage will lead to standing water, increasing the risk of slips and falls in parking lots. Puddles could form in areas with clogged storm drains or pavement slopes. This water accumulation might increase over time and may be overlooked by management. Colder months turn these puddles into dangerous layers of ice, while warmer months may produce algae that creates a slick surface. Property owners and managers need to identify and correct drainage issues. This could include repairing pavement defects or clearing debris from storm drains. Water accumulation that occurs frequently in the same area can indicate neglect. Owners who fail to address these issues may risk liability if an injury occurs.
Uneven Surfaces
Parking lots wear down over time due to foot traffic, heavy vehicles, and weather conditions. These may lead to cracked or shifted surfaces. Potholes and cracks can be found in poorly maintained parking lots, and these issues lead to unexpected changes in footing. Cracks or shifts are particularly dangerous when they are hidden beneath snow, water, or debris. Uneven walking surfaces may not always cause slips on their own, but the risk increases when combined with other hazards.
Stepping into a shallow pothole or over a raised surface could result in tripping or slipping. Even small surface elevation changes create risks for pedestrians. Older adults or people with mobility issues are particularly at risk, so managers and owners should schedule repairs when they first identify a defect. Patching and resurfacing help to prevent larger safety issues. They should also consistently monitor their parking lots to maintain a smooth parking surface and prevent injuries.
Poor Lighting
Slipping hazards are more difficult to see in areas with poor lighting. Visibility is poor early in the morning or at night. The lack of light hides ice, cracks, and other surface issues. Dim or broken lights can make parking lots unsafe for pedestrians.
Sufficient lighting will allow you to see potential hazards before stepping onto them. Managers and owners should make sure that all areas of the parking lot have adequate lighting. This includes areas of heavy foot traffic like entrances, exits, and walkways. Non-functioning light fixtures or dead bulbs should be repaired quickly. Failing to maintain proper lighting contributes to slips and other dangerous incidents. Lot owners need to inspect and maintain lighting systems regularly. The lawyers at Philly Slip and Fall Guys can help if you have sustained an injury from poor visibility in a parking lot.
Construction Hazards
Construction or cleaning could result in temporary hazards in a parking lot. Signs and barriers are expected during these periods to warn of potential danger. You could unknowingly enter unsafe areas without clear signage, leading to potential injury. Visual warnings like cones or caution signs will alert you to be careful. They might also direct you to alternative paths. A lack of such signs could indicate that proper safety protocols are not being followed.
Get a Slip and Fall Lawyer
If you have been injured by a slip and fall, document the conditions of the parking lot at the time of the incident. A slip and fall lawyer can help to gather information and evidence to determine if a claim should be made. They will negotiate with insurance adjusters and at-fault parties. Contact Philly Slip and Fall Guys today to talk with a lawyer.
