Extra Precautions are Necessary When Using Stairs

Stairs can pose additional hazards for people everywhere as the level of ascent or descent is steeper and the body is placed in a different physical position than its normal upright one requiring more balance. Even escalators can fall into this category as they too take some additional physical dexterity to maneuver. When having to use stairs, slow down your pace and be extra aware of your immediate surroundings including the condition of the stairs themselves.

Causes of Accidents

Some of the more common reasons for stairway accidents are as follows:

• The stairs them selves are not in good repair and are damaged
• Missing handrails or poorly maintained ones
• Ripped or torn carpet on stairs contributing to falls
• Misplaced or loose carpet or runners on stairs
• Presence of obstacles, trash or other debris on stairway
• Water or other liquid on stairs creating a slippery surface
• Insufficient lighting on stairs

Any of the above conditions can lead to a person slipping, tripping or falling on a stairway and can result in serious injury. Adults who have children should be especially cautious to ensure the safety of their children, especially if they are small.

Owners of commercial buildings or homeowners have a responsibility to properly maintain stairways so as to avoid being held liable for accidents. Serious injuries can result from a stairway accident including head, neck and back injuries as well as broken limbs. Medical expenses can quickly reach high levels and financial compensation becomes a vital necessity to the injured person.

Seek Competent Help

If you or someone you love has been injured in a stairway accident in the New York City or surrounding area due to someone's negligence, you need to contact a New York City stair accident lawyer for advice immediately. At Hochheiser & Hochheiser LLP, we handle personal injury cases including stairway accidents. These can be especially devastating due to the added height and sharp angles involved in stairs. If you have been injured, you may be able to receive compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, loss of wages and more. We can do a full investigation and utilize our many resources to help defend you as a victim of another's carelessness.

Contact a New York City Stairway Accident Attorney from our firm for a free consultation today.