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Two Types of Elevated-Fall Accidents

There are two types of fall accidents depending on elevation. First, slip and fall accidents generally happen on same-level floors or low walking surfaces, although some accidents may happen due to inconsistency with the surface level. Fortunately, although slip and fall accidents happen often, the injuries it can result to are rarely severe.

The second type, elevated falls, seldom happen but the injuries are more severe. Most fall accidents occur on workplaces, especially one that involves construction. Like in the case of slip and fall, a third party may be liable for the injuries inflicted to the victim, making him eligible to file a claim or lawsuit with the help of a Los Angeles Personal Injury Lawyer.

Falls from Ladders

Ladders can be made of wood, metal, plastic, or fiberglass. The material ladders are made of affects it in terms of weight, durability, flexibility, conductivity, and strength. Depending on its intended use, a person should be able to purchase the proper type, as approved by the American National Standards Institute. For example, metal ladders are not advisable when it, or the person using it, would come in contact with electricity.

Some ladders can go as high as 2, 18, or 40 feet. But the important thing is that it should be long enough for the user not to step on the top three rungs (for straight ladder) or top two steps (for step-ladder). The lower and upper ends of the side rails should have slip-resistant pads.

Ladders can also be fixed or portable; its base should be firmly set to avoid slippage or settling into soft ground. It should also be inspected for cracks, loose rungs, slivers, sharp edges, and other risks before use. Painting a ladder can hide some dangerous conditions, but wooden ladders can be coated with linseed oil or oil-based wood preservative to prevent drying out or cracking.

Falls on Stairs

Another type of elevated fall that often happens is a fall on stairs. This can happen due to obstructions and irregularities on the steps, or a lack of lighting around the area. To avoid this, all of the steps should have the same rise and depth, and have visible edges. It must be free from oil or other substance, and obstacles that can make it slippery. The stairwell should be well-lighted and have hand rails.