Stairway Trips or Slips and Falls on Commercial Property

Commercial property owners have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of their premises for all who enter. This duty requires maintaining all areas of the property, particularly stairways, which can present unique hazards that lead to accidents and serious injuries.

Commercial stairway slips and falls can be caused by any of the following:

• Irregular riser heights and tread depths — Variations in the height of risers (the vertical part of the step) can disrupt a person’s natural rhythm as they climb or descend a staircase. Inconsistencies in tread depths can cause difficulty in maintaining footing. Both of these irregularities can lead to missteps and falls, especially if the walker is distracted or in a hurry.
• Inferior handrails — Bannisters should be at a height that can provide balance and should be sturdy enough to give support, particularly for people who may require additional stability while navigating stairs. Handrails that are poorly positioned or not well secured present dangers.
• Poor traction — Steps should have non-slip treads or carpet and rubber nosing to provide a good grip. Missing or loose safety features can increase the risk of trips or slips and falls.
• Dim lighting — Poorly illuminated stairways can obscure hazards, making it difficult for a walker to see where they are stepping. Low visibility can be especially dangerous in settings individuals may not be fully aware of their surroundings.
• Slippery surfaces — These are perhaps the most common causes of accidents, whether they are due to spills, weather conditions or inadequate maintenance. A wet or greasy surface can cause a walker to lose their footing, resulting in a slip that may lead to serious injuries. 

Even a short stairway or a single step can pose a risk if it is located in a place where a person may not anticipate a change in elevation, such as in a retail store showroom or on a path to an exit. These seemingly minor features can catch a walker off guard, leading to accidents that could have been prevented by proper safeguards.

In New York, individuals injured due to unsafe premises may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. If you suffer such an accident, there are important steps you should take. First, seek medical attention for any injuries, regardless of how minor they may seem. Document the incident by taking photographs of the area, including any hazards that contributed to your fall. Collect contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident occur. Report the incident to the property owner or manager to ensure that a formal record is created, but don’t make any statement that suggests you were at fault. Lastly, seek advice from a premises liability attorney about your rights and legal remedies.

The lawyers at Jakubowski, Robertson, Maffei, Goldsmith & Tartaglia, LLP in St. James represent people injured due to unsafe premises in Suffolk County or anywhere on Long Island. Call us at 631-360-0400 or contact us online to learn how we can help you.