When you fall down the stairs, it can be embarrassing. However, walking away with only a bruised ego is often the best-case scenario in these instances, as accidents involving stairs lead to an estimated 12,000 fatalities annually. As such, it’s important to understand your legal options during these complicated matters and who can face liability if you sustain injuries. If this reflects your circumstances, you’ll want to keep reading to learn how a slip & fall lawyer in Sacramento, California can help you fight for the justice you deserve during these complicated matters.
What Makes Stairs Unsafe?
Though you may not think twice about stairs as they are a common fixture in most residential and retail locations, it’s important to understand that there are several hazards that can impact stairs and lead to an accident. As such, it’s imperative to familiarize yourself with the risks so you can stay safe during these matters. The following are some of the most common issues that can impact stairs rendering them unsafe:
- Stairs that are too narrow
- Treads that are too short
- Risers that are too high, making the stairs too steep
- Open staircases
- Inadequate lighting
- Debris on the stairs
- Missing or broken handrails
- Cracked or broken treads
- Slippery treads
Though a slip and fall down the stairs may not seem like a big deal, serious injuries can result from a fall. These include broken bones, soft tissue damage, traumatic brain injuries, lacerations, internal organ damage, and contusions, among others.
Who Can Face Liability for My Damages?
If you are involved in an accident because of unsafe stairs, understanding your legal options is in your best interest. It’s important to understand that in many instances, people brush off their fall down the stairs without realizing they can likely seek compensation for any damages incurred as a result, so connecting with an experienced attorney as soon as possible following an accident is in your best interest after a stairwell accident.
Generally, liability will depend on the circumstances of the accident. For example, if you are hurt because there is debris littering the floor or improper maintenance of the stairs, the property owner will face liability for the damages endured. This is because it is their responsibility to ensure the stairs are maintained and safe for guests to use.
However, if an inherent issue with the structure of the stairs is to blame, the contractor who built the stairs can face liability, as it is their responsibility to ensure the fixture is safe and adheres to local codes and ordinances established to ensure stairwells are safe. Additionally, the property owner could face liability as they are also responsible, especially if the contractor is not licensed which leads to improper work.
As you can see, several issues can arise if the staircase is unsafe, which is why it’s imperative to ensure you connect with an experienced lawyer with the Law Offices of Dale R. Gomes as soon as possible. Our team can review the circumstances to determine the best possible outcome for your case. When you are hurt, contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.