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We all laugh at when we see someone slip and fall on the banana peel on the television, but those are usually staged scenarios. It is not so funny when we are the ones to slip and fall. In some cases, slip and fall will result in bruises or broken bones. In the elderly especially, a slip and fall can be disastrous, leading to medical complications, paralysis, and possibly death. A slip and fall accident occurs when the bottom of our shoe or foot makes improper contact with the ground. The ground may be covered by a liquid or fluid; or, the surface itself is slick. Worn carpeting lacks tread to grip your shoes, which makes it even more dangerous on stairs. Avoid slip and fall injuries by watching out for these hazards: Outside:

• Icy or snow-covered roads, sidewalks, walkways or parking lots
• Mud
• Wet leaves
• Hidden curbs
• Loose gravel, stones or rocks
• Potholes
• Sewer covers or grills
• Manhole covers
• Uneven pavement
• Cracked sidewalks

Inside:

• Liquid (for example, water, oil, or beverage) spilled on floor
• Slippery floor texture or freshly polished/waxed floor
• Objects or trash on the floor
• Escalators and elevators
• Uneven floors
• Worn tread on carpeting
• Narrow, loose or worn stairs
• Cracks in the floor
• Unsecured area rug or carpet edge
• Electrical cords

There are also situations where prevention measures that should have been in place were neglected, thus increasing the likelihood of a slip and fall injury. The following are examples of items that, when lacking, could cause people to slip and fall:

• Handrails on stairs on along walls
• Adequate or bright lighting
• Caution signs (“Slippery when wet” or “Wet Floor”)
• Warning signs around cleaning or construction areas
• Reflectors or painted curbs

Slip and falls can occur in any building, at home, at a friend’s house, or at work. We love the great outdoors but a lot of slip and falls can happen just outside your front porch. Even fun, tourist attractions such as amusement parks, cruise ships, and art galleries can be a site for a slip and fall accident. If you are injured in a slip and fall accident, do take a moment to consider whether that accident could have been caused by the negligence of the property owner. Our Phoenix personal injury lawyers can offer you good advice on whether you have enough evidence to file a complaint. To learn more about slip and fall lawsuits as well as auto accident lawsuits, motorcycle accident lawsuits, truck accident lawsuits, construction accident lawsuits, medical malpractice lawsuits, and birth injury lawsuits, it is important to speak with our personal injury lawyers in Phoenix, Arizona.