The word “accident” entails that there is always a risk of something bad happening, no matter what you do. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t reduce its risk by taking extra precautions. Slip and fall accidents in Nevada are very similar in this regard.
Primarily, the common risk factors for slip and fall accidents in Nevada include not having a sign for wet floors in place, curing concrete, falling dirt, and debris, or any other similar circumstance. But there are also countless secondary and tertiary risk factors to consider as well.
This article will take a closer look at some of the most common risk factors for slip and fall accidents, the extent of liability they entail, and what you can do to avoid this risk.
What Are The Risk Factors for Slip & Fall Accidents?
The most common risk factors for slip and fall accidents in Nevada include:
1. Poorly Maintained Surfaces & Walkways
Unattended walkways, sidewalks, stairwells, parking lots, and other surfaces can create a slip hazard. Loose flooring tiles, uneven walkway surfaces, or slipping hazards due to inadequate maintenance are all common causes of slip-and-fall accidents in Nevada.
To avoid this risk, the management should ensure proper and regular maintenance of the surfaces.
2. Lack of Non-Slip Mats
Not having a non-slip mat in place can create slip-and-trip hazards leading to slip and fall accidents. This is especially true when dealing with wet or slippery surfaces.
3. Uneven Walking Paths
Natural walking paths that have not been properly maintained can also lead to slip and fall accidents. This is especially true if the path has developed a large number of cracks or holes throughout its surface. This risk factor is also applicable to uneven or slippery steps.
The management must ensure that all walking paths are regularly inspected and maintained to prevent this issue.
4. Construction Sites
Construction sites usually have a significant slip-and-fall risk due to the presence of equipment and debris on the ground. To mitigate this risk, it is important to ensure that all materials are properly secured and appropriately marked with warning signs.
5. Low Visibility
Poorly lit areas can be dangerous, leading to slip and fall accidents. To avoid this, it is important to provide adequate lighting in all areas. Slip and fall accidents due to low visibility are only subject to a personal injury case when the owner of the premises is found to be negligent in providing sufficient lighting.
6. Unstable Flooring
Instability caused by improperly laid flooring can also increase the risk of slip and fall in Nevada. If a certain area isn’t properly sealed or if construction materials haven’t been installed correctly, then slip, and fall accidents can occur with ease. It is important to note that unstable flooring is not the same as uneven walking paths.
Furthermore, slip and fall accidents caused by unstable flooring are usually only subject to a personal injury case when the owner of the premises is found to be negligent in ensuring that the flooring is safe for use.
7. Ice or Snow
Slippery surfaces due to ice or snow are also common causes of slip and fall accidents in Nevada. While snow accumulation in major cities of the state is rare, there is still frost and morning dew to consider. It may end up causing slip and falls if proper caution is not taken.
If the cause of the slip and fall is due to natural dew, frost, or other similar circumstances, no one may be held liable.
8. Lack of Warning Signs
Wet flooring and other slip hazards should always be clearly marked with a warning sign. If there is no warning sign present, then slip and fall accidents can occur due to the lack of knowledge about the hazard. In this case, the owner of the premises may be held liable for the slip and fall.
9. Age
Slip and fall accidents are more common in people aged 65 or above. This is due to the natural decrease in physical ability that comes with age. To avoid slip and fall accidents due to age, it is important for owners of premises to ensure appropriate assistance is provided to senior citizens.
These are some of the most common risk factors that can lead to slip and fall accidents in Nevada. It is important to be aware of these risks so that you can take proper precautions to avoid falling victim to a slip and fall incident.
When The Owner May NOT Be Liable
It is important to note that the owner of the premises may not always be held liable in case of a slip and fall accident in Nevada. For instance, if a person slips and falls while under the influence of alcohol, (even if there is no warning sign) then the owner of the premises might not be liable. Similarly, slip and fall accidents due to natural conditions (frost, dew, etc.) may also not be subject to any personal injury lawsuit.
It is always important to contact a slip and fall attorney if you feel that you have had an accident due to someone else’s negligence. They can guide you in understanding your rights as a slip and fall victim and provide you with the necessary legal advice to pursue a personal injury case.
Bourassa Law Group personal injury attorneys are here for you, no matter the circumstances of your case. Whether you want to understand your situation better or are ready to go to court, call us at (800)870-8910 for a free consultation, and let us fight for you!
1-800-870-8910