Common Causes of Workplace Falls
Workplace falls result from various hazardous conditions:
- Wet or Slippery Floors: Spills, cleaning solutions, rainwater tracked inside
- Uneven Surfaces: Damaged flooring, raised thresholds, torn carpeting
- Poor Lighting: Inadequate illumination hiding hazards
- Cluttered Walkways: Cords, equipment, or materials in paths
- Stairs and Ramps: Missing handrails, worn treads, inadequate traction
- Weather Conditions: Ice, snow, or rain on outdoor work surfaces
- Improper Footwear: Employers failing to require appropriate shoes
Injuries from Workplace Falls
Fall injuries range from minor to catastrophic:
- Fractures: Broken wrists, hips, ankles, and vertebrae
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: From hitting the head during falls
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Potentially causing paralysis
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, torn ligaments
- Internal Injuries: Organ damage from impact
- Chronic Pain: Lasting back, neck, or joint problems
Even seemingly minor falls can cause injuries that worsen over time, so always seek medical evaluation.
Workers' Compensation for Fall Injuries
Workers' comp covers fall injuries regardless of fault. Benefits include:
- Medical expenses for all necessary treatment
- Temporary disability payments while recovering
- Permanent disability benefits if you have lasting impairment
- Vocational rehabilitation if you can't return to your job
Report your fall immediately and file a claim within your state's deadline. Don't minimize your symptoms - document everything.
Third-Party Liability in Workplace Falls
You may have claims beyond workers' comp against negligent third parties:
- Property Owners: If you fell in a location your employer doesn't own
- Cleaning/Maintenance Companies: If inadequate maintenance caused the hazard
- General Contractors: On construction sites with multiple contractors
- Product Manufacturers: If defective flooring, ladders, or equipment caused your fall
- Snow/Ice Removal Companies: For negligent exterior maintenance
Third-party claims allow you to recover full damages including pain and suffering.
Preserving Evidence After a Fall
Take these steps immediately after a workplace fall:
- Report the incident to your supervisor
- Take photos of the hazard that caused your fall
- Note weather and lighting conditions
- Get names and contact information of witnesses
- Request copies of any incident reports
- Seek medical attention promptly
- Keep the shoes you were wearing as evidence
- Document any prior complaints about the hazard
Evidence often disappears quickly, so act fast to preserve your claim.