For most people, falling down the stairs can be incredibly embarrassing. It’s important to understand that some embarrassment is the best-case scenario in these matters. Many underestimate how dangerous these incidents can be, with nearly 12,000 stair-related fatalities occurring each year. If you’ve fallen down the stairs in Florida, understanding your rights is critical. The following blog explores what you should know about the dangers of falling down these unsafe stairs and how an Orlando stairway accident lawyer can help you determine who can be held liable for the injuries you’ve sustained.

What Makes Stairs Unsafe?

It’s imperative to understand that, even though they are a common fixture in most homes and businesses, accidents involving stairs are common. Typical hazards that can result in staircase accidents include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Risers that are too high
  • Stairs that are too narrow
  • Treads that are too short
  • Inadequate lighting
  • Broken handrails
  • Broken treads
  • Debris left on the stairs
  • Wires or cords on the stairs

As mentioned, stair accidents result in thousands of deaths each year, making them incredibly dangerous. Common injuries you can sustain if you encounter unsafe stairs include broken bones, soft tissue injuries, internal organ damage, traumatic brain injuries, neck and spine damage, and back injuries, among others.

You’ll also find that you may suffer emotional damages as a result of your injuries. As mentioned, this can be embarrassing, resulting in humiliation. Additionally, your injuries

Who Can be Held Liable if I’m Hurt?

Determining liability for these issues can be incredibly difficult. You’ll find that the hazard that leads to the injuries and the location of the stairs will play a significant role in determining liability.

For example, if the stairs are poorly maintained and that leads to an accident, the property owner will face liability, as it is ultimately their responsibility to ensure those on the premises have safe stairs to navigate. However, if poor construction quality is to blame, like failing to ensure the stairs are up to local codes or built using good materials, the contractor can face liability for the damages, as they have a responsibility to ensure they are safe.

In some instances, multiple parties can face liability. For example, if you are injured in a stairwell at your local shopping mall, the owner and property management company of the location can face liability, as it is their responsibility to ensure the stairs are safe.

A fall down the stairs is not something that should be taken lightly, especially because of the damage it can lead to. If you are a victim of unsafe stairs, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney from Tropical Injury Law Firm to help guide you through the process of filing a claim against the negligent party. When you’re hurt, contact us to learn how we can help you.