Premises Safety Investigations

Slip, trip, and fall events can result in serious injuries, ranging from bruises and sprains to fractures, head injuries, or even death. Such incidents can occur in any environment, including public spaces, workplaces, and private residences, and may be caused by factors such as wet or uneven surfaces, inadequate lighting, or obstacles in walkways. In a premises liability investigation, engineers play a critical role in scientifically analyzing slip, trip, and fall events by applying their knowledge of gait mechanics, physics, and materials science. They can identify factors such as the coefficient of friction and slip resistance of surfaces, the angle and speed of falls, and the potential impact of body position on severity of impact forces. By using scientific analysis, engineers can provide objective evidence and expert testimony to determine the cause of an incident.

There are many different types of injury incidents that can result in a premises liability claim, including slip and fall, trip and fall, falling merchandise, incidents involving furniture and other hazards. An engineer can investigate the cause of the incident by conducting a thorough analysis of the premises, including the design, maintenance, and operation of the environment. This may involve examining factors such as lighting, signage, surface materials, and slope or grade of the surface. For slip and fall incidents, engineers may measure the coefficient of friction and slip resistance of the surface to determine if it meets industry standards and identify any potential hazards, such as wet or uneven surfaces. For trip and fall incidents, engineers may examine the height, location, and design of obstacles or hazards in walkways, as well as the visibility and adequacy of warning signs or barriers. For falling merchandise incidents, engineers may evaluate the design and installation of shelving units, the weight and placement of products, and the effectiveness of restraints or other safety mechanisms. Overall, an engineer can provide objective evidence and expert testimony to determine the cause of the incident, assess liability, and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.