What Are Some Reasons That Slip and Fall Accidents Occur on Stairways?

A Tolland County Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Jason L. McCoy, LLC Help Clients Who Were Injured in Stairway Falls
June 28, 2024

Safety might not be on your mind when going up and down steps, but stairways can be especially hazardous. While most are generally in good condition, others pose risks that can cause you to slip, trip, and fall. When they are steep and long, that only adds to risks. What should you look out for when climbing and descending stairways?

Here are some common causes of stairway slip and fall accidents.

  • Detached nosing: Some steps are bordered by metal strips known as nosing. When these strips get detached, they can stick up and cause you to trip.
  • Frayed carpet: Loose and torn carpeting and rugs might have holes and material that can catch onto your foot and make you stumble.
  • Loose handrails: Handrails are a safety requirement in public stairways, but they are not always properly installed or well maintained. A negligent property owner might fail to install a handrail where it is needed.
  • Not enough light: It is hard to see in dark stairways; property owners might forget to replace bulbs or use too low ones.
  • Slippery steps: Flooring materials like wood and concrete can be slick and should have non-slip treads.
  • Weak materials: Older staircases could collapse under too much weight.

What Should I Do if I Slip and Fall in a Stairway?

If you are injured after slipping and falling in a stairway, your medical needs take priority. You may have to phone for help or ask nearby others for assistance. Standing up may not be advised, as you might have serious injuries. To be safe, call 911 and wait for help to arrive. If possible, snap photos of whatever contributed to your fall – a broken handrail, an icy tread, etc.

It is important to document as much information as possible about the fall. Ask any witnesses for their contact information and see if a police officer can write up an accident report. If possible, contact the property owner or on-site officials to let them know what happened. If medical treatment is required, keep copies of the diagnosis, treatment plan, and related medical expenses.

Is the Property Owner Responsible for My Slip and Fall Injuries?

Connecticut has maintenance and building codes that apply to stairways, and property owners are mandated to keep inside and outside ones reasonably safe from defects that can cause slipping hazards. This means keeping the stairways and handrails in good working condition, and regular inspections are part of this.

Property owners and tenants owe a duty of care to others. The premises must be kept reasonably safe. An owner or tenant could be held responsible for your injuries.

A Tolland County Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Jason L. McCoy, LLC Help Clients Who Were Injured in Stairway Falls

A stairway fall can cause serious injuries that impact your quality of life. If you feel that another party’s negligence caused your accident, contact an experienced Tolland County slip and fall accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Jason L. McCoy, LLC. Call us at 860-872-7741 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Vernon, New Haven, and Waterbury, Connecticut, we serve clients in Tolland County, New Haven County, and Hartford County.