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Most slip and falls are caused by unexpected changes in walking surfaces according to Barrett Miller "Investigating Slips and Falls:  The Complex Dynamics Behind Simple Accidents".   "If we see a potential hazard, we can adjust our behavior. It's the unseen hazard that places us at maximum risk."

Slips occur when there is not enough friction or traction on the surface on which you are walking.  Trips most commonly happen when your feet come into contact with unexpected objects and you lose your balance.  Falls usually take place from one level to the next, such as on stairs or a ladder. 

Some other common causes of slips, trips and falls are:

• Wet floors and spills
• Inadequate lighting or burned-out bulbs, causing poor visibility
• Walking too fast or running
• Not using handrails when going up or down stairs
• Cluttered or messy areas
• Items lying on the floor where people walk such as cords, tools etc.
• Using ladders inappropriately - not enough caution; not proper weight; imbalance
• Carrying something, over which one cannot see
• Distracted - not watching where one is going
• Inappropriate shoes for the action being taken
• Open cabinets
• Worn, defected, loose or uneven flooring

Attorney Randall Spivey, Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. has seen first-hand how serious, long-term injuries, health problems, even death can result from slips, trips and falls.  "These injuries could be head injuries and/or broken bones, pulled or torn muscles, sprained joints and internal injuries."  says Attorney Spivey.

According BrainInjuryInstitute.org,  slip and fall accidents are the leading cause of brain injury.  Statistics report that approximately 35% of brain injuries are caused by falls. Thousands die from falls including the senior population, where it's the leading cause of death.   

If a slip, trip or fall happens in a public place, it may be the result of the negligent actions of others.  Business owners have the responsibility of providing safe public areas.  Failure to do so, may result in a personal injury claim. 

Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Civil Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by less than 2 percent of Florida attorneys. He has handled over 1,500 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida. For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., in Lee County at  239. 337.7483 or toll free at 1.888.477.4839, or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com.  Visit SpiveyLaw.com  for more information. You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County 239.793.7748.