Trip and Fall & Slip and Fall Accidents: A Closer Look

Each year, tens of thousands of people across the United States sustain injuries because of two types of accidents. These accidents are (1) trip and fall accidents and (2) slip and fall accidents. Although both involve people falling, it is the cause of these falls that make one different from the other. In some situations, these accidents occur because of a failure to maintain a reasonably safe environment by a person or party responsible for the property (for example, a property owner). As a result, the victim of the accident can sue and recover compensation for their injuries and other damages.

In this article, our team at Golian Law Group takes a closer look at trip and fall accidents, as well as slip and fall accidents. We discuss what each one is in detail, in addition to describing similarities, differences, places where they commonly occur, and what to do after a trip and fall or slip and fall accident. As an experienced trip and fall lawyer (slip and fall too!) proudly serving Los Angeles and California, our goal is to educate people about these serious and potentially life-threatening accidents. 

Trip and Fall & Slip and Fall Accidents: By the Numbers

We start by looking at some of the statistics related to slip, trip, and fall accidents in the United States. By reviewing these statistics, the magnitude of the risks these accidents create become easier to understand.

  • According to the most recent data from the National Safety Council, falls resulted in 42,114 deaths in 2020. 
  • From 2019 to 2020, there was a 6.8 percent increase in the number of deaths caused by falls. 
  • According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, falls, slips, and trips represented 24 percent of all injuries requiring days away from work. 
  • As stated by the National Safety Council, falls were the leading cause of preventable injuries in the US in 2020, accounting for over 33 percent of total nonfatal injuries. 

Trip and Fall—What Does This Mean?

Trip and fall accidents often occur because a person’s foot unexpectedly gets stuck on the floor or on an object where they are standing, walking, or moving. According to one study from 2009, all it takes is a surface that is ⅜ of an inch higher than the rest of the floor to cause someone to potentially trip or stumble. Some of the most common causes of trip and fall accidents include: 

  • Uneven flooring
  • Items left on the floor
  • Exposed wires and other materials

In many trip and fall accident cases, a person will get their foot stuck on something. In turn, this prevents them from bringing their leg forward in the routine motion, and ultimately, results in them falling forward and sustaining injuries. 

Slip and Fall—Understanding the Meaning

Slip and fall accidents occur when a person loses traction with the surface they’re walking on due slippery walking surfaces. In slip and fall accidents, a person’s foot loses friction with the ground, making the foot slide forward in a wild manner and ultimately causing them to fall backward. Common reasons why slip and fall accidents occur are:

  • Inappropriate flooring materials for a specific location
  • Incorrect waxing or cleaning of floors
  • Spilled liquids on a floor or surface

Trip and Fall VS Slip and Fall: Similarities and Differences 

In a broad sense, trip and fall accidents and slip and fall accidents are the same in that they cause a person to fall and often sustain injuries. As mentioned previously, what separates the two is the reason why they occur. A trip and fall happens because of uneven floors or objects obstructing the floor. A slip and fall, on the other hand, is often a result of slippery surfaces. 

Common Location and Places Where Slip and Fall & Trip and Fall Accidents Occur

In a previous blog post, we covered common locations of slip and falls, as well as trip and falls. These types of accidents occur on both private properties, as well as government-owned properties. The list includes:

  • Retail stores, supermarkets, and malls
  • Restaurants, cafes, and bars
  • Private parking lots and garages
  • Vacation rentals
  • Work offices and office buildings
  • Government buildings and offices (e.g. DMV, post office)
  • Public parks, playgrounds, sidewalks, and parking lots
  • A public university
  • Public schools and libraries

Final Thoughts 

In this article, we’ve provided a closer look at trip and fall accidents and slip and fall accidents. By understanding what each one is, similarities and differences, and common places they occur, we hope readers are able to avoid them and remain injury-free. In the unfortunate case that you are ever involved in a trip and fall or slip and fall accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence related to keeping an environment reasonably safe and free from danger, Golian Law Group can ensure you get the justice you deserve. Our team has tremendous experience in not only dealing with these types of cases, but also helping our clients get the maximum compensation for their injuries and other damages. 

For more information, questions, or to get a free, no-strings-attached consultation, call our friendly staff today at (310) 801-3028. We proudly serve Los Angeles and California, and have achieved successful outcomes for victims of these accidents across the state. With Golian Law Group, you’re always in good hands!

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