Falling can be a terrifying experience and cause significant injuries to the victim. However, falling down stairways can be particularly devastating. When this happens, it is often impossible to stop the fall. According to the American Journal of Emergency Medicine, more than one million people in this country or injured on stairs every year. When these incidents occur, it is vital that injury victims be able to secure compensation if another person was responsible for the fall.
Causes Of Stairwell Accidents: Who is at fault?
All property owners have a duty to keep every part of their premises reasonably safe for those who have a right to be there. This includes commercial property owners as well as those who own private property and private residences. However, many stairway falls occur because a property owner was negligent in maintaining their premises. Some examples of negligence that can lead to stairway falls include the following:
- Cracked or uneven stairs
- Lack of adequate handrails
- Not enough lighting in stairwells
- Stairs that are too narrow or steep
- Loose or rotting stair boards
- Worn material or carpeting on stairs
- Wet or slippery stair surfaces
- Failure to have appropriate foot grip on stairs (usually for commercial property)
- No warning signs of possible hazardous stairway conditions
Anytime a property owner fails to maintain their premises and a visitor is injured, they may be held liable through a personal injury lawsuit.
Injuries From Stairwell Accidents
“Stairs are a common source of injury among all ages, and the frequency and rate of stair-related injuries are increasing,” said senior author Dr. Gary Smith of Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.
In a study conducted by Dr. Smith, and reported by Reuters, approximately 6% of all stair injury victims are admitted to the hospital for treatment of fractures or concussions. Some of the most common injuries caused by stairway falls include:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Neck & Back injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Shattered or broken bones
- Compound fractures in hands and wrists
- Dislocations
- Internal organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Deep contusions or lacerations
- Facial fractures
- Sprains and strains
Each of these injuries requires that a victim seek immediate medical treatment. It is not uncommon for stairway fall victims to need extensive physical therapy and rehabilitation in order to recover from their injuries. Unfortunately, there are times when these injuries are so severe that a victim is left with long-lasting or permanent disabilities.
Do I need an Attorney? Contact Ciccarelli Law Offices
If you or somebody you love has sustained an injury caused by falling down the stairs, you may need to contact a Philadelphia slip and fall accident lawyer. If your injuries were the result of the negligent or careless actions of another person, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. At the Ciccarelli Law Offices, our knowledgeable and experienced team will investigate every aspect of your case in order to determine liability and secure any compensation you are entitled to. This can include coverage of your medical bills, lost wages if you cannot work, as well as pain and suffering damages. When you need an attorney after falling down the stairs, you can contact us for a free consultation of your case by clicking here or calling (215) 228-0100.