Need help? Let’s talk :415-544-0115
Blog
How Poor Maintenance Can Lead to Catastrophic Injuries on Commercial Properties
Maintaining safety on commercial properties is a serious responsibility. Property owners who neglect basic upkeep, intentionally or not, can create unsafe environments, often leading to accidents and injuries. But how exactly can poor maintenance result in catastrophic injuries? The team at The Law Office of Scott Righthand, P.C. is here to demonstrate various ways that failing to prioritize property maintenance can lead to injury.
10 Possible Causes of Injuries from Poor Maintenance
- Wet or Slippery Floors
Spills from food, beverages or leaks pose significant slip hazards, especially if not promptly cleaned. When businesses fail to display proper warning signs, it heightens the risk of accidents. These incidents can result in fractured bones or more severe, disabling injuries.
- Uneven or Damaged Flooring
Cracks or loose tiles are hidden dangers that can easily cause someone to trip. Such accidents are common in public areas like shopping malls or lobbies. Failing to repair these issues promptly can lead to serious falls, especially for older individuals or those with reduced mobility.
- Obstructed Walkways
Walkways cluttered with merchandise or equipment can become accident zones. For instance, if a warehouse leaves tools scattered across pedestrian pathways, the likelihood of trips and other injuries increases.
- Inadequate Lighting
Poorly lit areas in parking lots, entryways or staircases create a perfect setup for accidents. Dim lighting can obscure hazards, such as uneven surfaces or obstacles, and lead to falls or collisions.
- Defective or Flickering Lighting
Flickering lights or burnt-out bulbs contribute to unsafe conditions. If an emergency occurs in such areas, lack of appropriate lighting could obstruct evacuation efforts or delay needed assistance.
- Faulty Handrails or Guardrails
Handrails and guardrails are installed for protection, but when they are loose or defective, they can fail unexpectedly. A wobbly railing on a staircase, for example, can lead to a devastating fall if it gives way, especially for someone relying on it for balance.
- Malfunctioning Elevators and Escalators
Poorly maintained elevators and escalators are not just inconvenient; they’re dangerous. Sudden stops, faulty steps or technical malfunctions can lead to falls, entrapment and resultant severe injuries.
- Poorly Maintained Parking Lots
Potholes, crumbling pavement or unmarked crosswalks in parking lots can become common grounds for accidents. Both drivers and pedestrians can be put at risk of injury through trips and falls or vehicle damage.
- Faulty Electrical Wiring
Outdated wiring, exposed connections and overburdened outlets can lead to catastrophic electrical fires. The consequences can extend beyond physical injuries to property damage and financial losses. Proper inspections and adherence to electrical codes are critical to avoid such disasters.
- Improper Storage of Flammable Materials
Storing flammable liquids or hazardous materials unsafely increases fire risks on commercial properties. Poor awareness of such fire safety standards can lead to preventable endangerment of both staff and customers.
Property Maintenance: A Legal and Social Duty
Safety on commercial properties extends beyond legal compliance. It creates a standard of trust and security for everyone who steps through those doors, which is worth prioritizing for all business and property owners.
If you or a loved one were injured due to a property owner’s negligence, you do not have to face the consequences alone. Consult a Lincoln Park catastrophic injury attorney from The Law Firm of Scott Righthand, P.C. to help you gain clarity on your next steps, from collecting evidence to fighting for rightful compensation. With our assistance, you can hold property owners accountable for endangering others through neglect.
