Slipping and tripping accidents on stairs in commercial properties often lead to severe injuries. These accidents can occur due to various factors, including lack of uniformity in stair riser heights and tread depths, inadequate lighting, improper handrail placement, and slippery surfaces. Under Missouri law, individuals who suffer injuries in a stairway fall have legal remedies available to them.

Commercial property owners and managers have duty to keep their premises safe, including stairways that are open to use by visitors. Factors that can cause stairs to be hazardous include the following:

• Poor design — Stair safety requires uniformity in the height of risers and the depth of treads. When these dimensions vary, it can disrupt the natural rhythm and coordination of individuals ascending or descending, thereby increasing the likelihood of missteps and consequent falls. Building codes typically specify the acceptable ranges for these measurements to minimize this risk. Deviations from these standards can be a basis for negligence claims if accidents occur.

• Unreliable handrails — The placement and condition of handrails or bannisters also affect stair safety. These fixtures should extend the full length of the staircase and should be at an appropriate height to aid balance. They should be securely attached and capable of supporting the weight of an average adult. 

• Slippery surfaces — Lack of traction can be due to materials used on the stair surface, such as polished wood or tile, or the presence of liquids or other slippery substances. Property owners must address these hazards preventatively by choosing appropriate materials for stair surfaces or by ensuring regular maintenance to keep the stairs clean and dry.

• Inadequate lighting — Lack of sufficient lighting can prevent individuals from seeing obstacles or changes in the stairway clearly, leading to slips and trips.

Even well-designed stairs can be dangerous if they are unexpected. A short stairway or a single step that is not clearly visible or where one would not reasonably expect a change in elevation can catch a person off guard, resulting in a fall. This is may be the case in environments where a visitor’s focus might not necessarily be on navigating steps, such as in shopping malls or office buildings.

If you suffer a fall on stairs in a commercial building, there are measures you can take to protect your health and legal rights. At the scene, try to document the conditions that contributed to the accident, such as taking photos of poor lighting, uneven steps or problems with handrails. Report the incident to the property owner or manager and seek medical attention even if the injuries seem minor, as some symptoms may appear later. Following the incident, speak with an experienced slip and fall attorney can help you understand your rights under Missouri law and assist in pursuing claims for compensation against the property owner or other responsible parties. Compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other related losses. 

The Guirl Law Firm in St. Louis is experienced in holding Missouri property owners and managers culpable for injuries to others caused by failure to keep their premises reasonably safe. If you’ve been hurt in a slip and fall, call us at 314-391-2585 or contact us online to learn how we can help you.