Poor Lighting Can Lead to Slip and Fall Accidents and Injuries
Here at Gary A. Zucker & Associates, P.C., we know that accidents can happen any time and anywhere, and that accident victims throughout Brooklyn need skilled attorneys who understand this. We have years of experience with premises liability cases, helping clients throughout the city receive just compensation for their injuries and other hardships that they've had to endure.
Our slip and fall accident attorneys understand that accidents can be caused by different acts of negligence, and that business owners and property owners should act with diligence to prevent hazards at their establishments. One potential hazard at a business is poor lighting, which we'd like to explore right now.
Poor Lighting Can Make Places Very Hazardous
It seems so obvious, but you'd be surprised how some people take this for granted. When a business or property is poorly lit or has inadequate lighting, it's a much more dangerous place to be and to move around in. This accounts for main walkways, hallways, and especially stairways and stairwells.
If you are at a business that is poorly lit or are visiting a property that is dark or has lights which are broken, be sure to exercise caution with every step as hazards for major falls can be anywhere.
Inability to See Steps, Snags, and Other Problems
When a premises is dark, it's much more difficult to notice issues with the floor or steps. There may be missing boards in the floor, for examples, or holes and little divots that you may not be able to see. Snags in carpet can also cause an issue as you step through an area, making a trip or a rolled ankle more likely.
In stairways and stairwells, bad lighting makes it more likely for people to miss a step as they are ascending or descending the stairs. Losing balance in a dark stairway can be very dangerous, leading to broken or fractured bones and other serious injuries.
Poor Lighting Can Hide Slipping Hazards
In addition to problems with carpets, steps, and floors, poor lighting can conceal potential slipping hazards. This includes liquids on linoleum and hardwood that can lead to poor footing, or debris that can affect the sureness of your steps, such as loose paper, tissues, or gravel. Being unable to notice these slipping hazards makes accidents much more likely.
Adequate Lighting Should Be There In the First Place
Regardless the business, regardless the property, good lighting should be a given. This should be the rule in especially high-traffic areas of a property where many people may be passing through. Failure to design a building or business with safety and good lighting in mind may be a sign of negligence.
What Property Owners Should Keep In Mind
If you own a business or property of any kind, it's of the utmost importance that you watch out for damaged lights, poor lighting, and low-light situations. Make sure bulbs are replaced regularly to avoid any accidents.
If a lighting fixture is broken and needs professional repair, provide alternate lighting in that area if necessary. When alternative lighting is not possible, block off that dark portion of the establishment to prevent customers/visitors from falling and harming themselves.
Speak with Our Attorneys About Your Case
For more information about all of your legal options in slip and fall accident cases, it's important that you contact our personal injury law firm today. During your consultation with our lawyers, we will be sure to build a strong case so that you can receive just compensation for any injuries sustained or hardships that have to be endured.
