Stairway trip and fall accidents occur far more often than most people realize. Every day, hundreds of individuals are injured on staircases, and thousands of claims are filed each year by victims seeking compensation for their losses. A single misstep on a stairway can lead to severe or even catastrophic injuries, including broken bones, concussions, spinal damage, hip fractures, neck injuries, or internal trauma.
If you’ve been hurt in a stairway fall, consulting an experienced premises liability lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take. A skilled attorney can help determine the cause of the accident, identify the responsible party, and ensure you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Many hazards can contribute to a stairway accident. The following are among the most frequent causes of falls on stairs:
Over time, staircases naturally deteriorate. Worn carpeting, frayed edges, loose floorboards, or lifted tiles can easily cause someone to trip and fall. Even small defects can be dangerous, particularly on steep or narrow stairwells.
Property owners have a legal responsibility to repair hazards in a timely manner. Failure to fix worn or damaged stairs may be considered negligence. A slip and fall attorney can investigate the condition of the stairs and determine liability.
Stairs that are missing pieces, cracked, loose, or unstable are a major cause of stairwell injuries. A single damaged step can lead to serious falls, especially when descending.
Proving liability in defective stair cases often requires professional investigation and documentation. A knowledgeable premises liability attorney can gather evidence to support your claim.
California enforces strict building codes for stairways in both residential and commercial properties. These codes address requirements such as:
Proper stair height and depth
Uniform step measurements
Adequate handrail installation
Non-slip surfaces
If a stairway is built incorrectly or has deteriorated to the point that it no longer meets code requirements, it may create an unreasonable safety hazard. Falls caused by building code violations often result in strong legal claims.
Wet, slick, or icy surfaces dramatically increase the risk of slipping on stairs. Outdoor staircases are particularly vulnerable to rain, ice, moss, and debris. Indoors, spills or leaks can make steps extremely hazardous if not promptly cleaned.
Property owners must monitor conditions and take reasonable steps to ensure stairways remain safe. Failure to do so may result in liability for injuries.
Victims of stairway trip and fall accidents have the right to pursue financial recovery for their injuries. Depending on the severity of your case, compensation may include:
Medical bills and hospitalization
Future medical treatment
Lost income or reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Rehabilitation and long-term care
Medication and medical equipment
Emotional distress
A premises liability lawyer in Bakersfield can help determine the full value of your claim and fight to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Yes. Stairway injuries happen every day, and while many are minor, others result in serious or permanent harm. Thousands of personal injury claims each year involve stairwell accidents.
Injuries range widely, from scrapes and bruises to life-altering conditions. Common injuries include:
Concussions
Broken bones
Dislocations
Ligament tears
Neck and back injuries
Spinal cord trauma
If you experience one of these injuries, consulting a personal injury attorney is strongly recommended.
Frequent causes include:
Worn or torn carpeting
Uneven or damaged flooring
Building code violations
Wet or slippery surfaces
Many of these hazards are preventable through proper maintenance.
Yes. Property owners have a duty to keep their stairways safe. If you were injured due to their negligence, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim. A qualified attorney can evaluate your case.
If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a stairway fall or other slip and fall accident, Bakersfield Personal Injury Attorney Donald Colvin is here to help. Attorney Colvin understands how devastating fall-related injuries can be and has years of experience helping victims recover the compensation they deserve.
Don’t wait to get the legal support you need. Call (661) 616-1177 today for a personalized consultation.
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