Workplace injuries, like slip and falls, happen every day in Indiana. And, even if you follow every rule on how to reduce risks of a slip and fall, these injuries can happen to you. Furthermore, slip and fall injuries can range from minor to life-changing. If your slip and fall happened at work, you will need help building a workers compensation claim. If it happened on a business or private property, you will need help with a personal injury claim.
Thankfully, the lawyers at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys have years of experience handling both kinds of cases. We serve Merrillville and the entire state of Indiana, so call us at 219-227-4993, fill out our FREE online form, or text via LiveChat to set up your free case evaluation and consultation.
Why Is June National Safety Month?
The National Safety Council (NSC), the leading non-profit organization in the United States for preventing preventable deaths, has indicated June as a special time of year to re-focus efforts on stabilizing the workplace and making it safer.
During the first week of National Safety Month, the NSC released information about musculoskeletal disorders, which are the leading cause of injuries that happen in the workplace. The second week focused on alcohol and drug impairment in the workplace. During the third week, they release information about injury prevention. Lastly, during the final week of June, the NSC focuses their efforts on slips and falls prevention. Slips and falls are the second most common cause of injury-related death.
Months like this play a role in awareness as well as minimizing the injuries and lives lost each year. In this way, the NSC is able to make a difference throughout the year, and has for over a quarter of a century.
How to Reduce Risks of a Slip and Fall in Merrillville
So, how can you do your part to minimize your chance of suffering a slip and fall related injury? You can “fall-proof” your home and business, notify your employer whenever you notice a hazard, and do your best to minimize your own chances of slipping and falling. Here are some ideas to do each.
How to Reduce Chances of Slip and Falls in Your Home
To lower the risk of a slip and fall happening in your own home, consider these best practices.
- Clear the floor of clutter or toys.
- In the kitchen, keep lower cabinets and the dishwasher closed.
- Tape down electrical cords, or try to use appliances as close to the outlet as possible.
- Install lighting in all walkways. Consider adding a light strip in dark hallways for nighttime walking.
- Make sure there is a clear walking path through all areas of the home.
How to Reduce the Risk of Slip and Falls at Your Workplace
If you own a business, you owe a “duty of care” to anyone that enters your establishment. This includes both employees and customers. To ensure your property is safe, you can follow all of the rules above in addition to:
- Keeping displays sturdy and out of walking paths.
- Maintaining all areas of the floor, and completing any necessary repairs in a timely manner.
- Training employees adequately in equipment.
- Making sure all employees know where slippery floor signs are.
How to Minimize Your Own Chances of Slip and Falls
To protect yourself from slips and falls:
- Always wear well-fitting shoes.
- Consider slip-resistant shoes, especially in the workplace.
- Alert a manager of any hazards they may have missed.
- Read the instructions and training manuals for equipment and other materials provided by an employer.
- Do not stand on the top two rungs of a ladder, a table, or chair.
Sadly, even when every precaution is taken, accidents still happen. Slip and falls can cause injuries that require doctor visits, physical therapy, and even surgery. Sometimes, a slip and fall can lead to a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or paralysis, which can change the course of someone’s life forever. That’s why you need a good slip and fall lawyer to help win you financial compensation.
Related Article: National Safety Month: Preventing Slip and Falls at Work and Beyond
Call the Slip and Fall Lawyers in Merrillville
At Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorney, we are here 24/7 and even on weekends to take your call. Our attorneys live and work in the state of Indiana, and serve clients statewide. Moreover, there is no fee until you win your case. So, don’t hesitate to begin the fight for the financial compensation you deserve. Instead, employ the assistance of a knowledgeable slip and fall attorney by calling 219-227-4993, filling out this FREE online form, or texting through LiveChat today.