Many people consider their home a sanctuary—a place of comfort and safety. However, the truth is that homes can be filled with unexpected hazards that put residents at risk of severe injuries or even death.
From seemingly harmless household items to areas you wouldn’t expect, accidents at home are more common than most realize. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that unintentional injuries at home are one of the leading causes of death in the United States, especially among children and the elderly. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most unexpected dangers lurking at home and how to mitigate those risks.
If you’ve been injured in a household accident, consider consulting a personal injury lawyer in Fort Worth. At Patterson Law Group, our experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.
Here, you will find some of the most common household accidents and why they occur.
1. Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip-and-fall accidents are among the most common hazards in the home. In 2022, over 46,000 people died due to falls at home and work across the U.S.
Homes with slippery floors, poorly lit staircases, or cluttered walkways increase the risk of such accidents. Elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable, as they may suffer from decreased balance or mobility issues.
In Texas, homeowners are legally responsible for ensuring that their homes are reasonably safe for occupants and visitors. If someone sustains an injury on your property due to negligence, you could face a lawsuit for premises liability.
Hiring a Fort Worth personal injury attorney can help assess liability in these situations and guide the injured party through the claims process.
2. Fires and Burn Injuries
Fires are another significant home hazard, especially in kitchens. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and fire-related injuries in the United States.
Candles, electrical equipment, and heating appliances also contribute to fire hazards. Smoke detectors are crucial in alerting residents to potential danger, but many homes either lack functioning detectors or do not have them installed in key areas.
In Texas, the law mandates that landlords provide functioning smoke detectors in rental properties. Failing to do so could make the landlord liable for any injuries that result from a fire. A PI lawyer in Fort Worth, Texas, can help hold negligent parties accountable in these cases.
3. Poisoning Hazards
Many common household products can lead to poisoning, especially among young children. Cleaning supplies, medications, and some plants can be toxic if ingested. According to the CDC, accidental poisoning is one of the leading causes of unintentional injury death, with children under five being particularly at risk.
Homeowners can take several measures to reduce the risk of poisoning, including locking away hazardous materials, installing childproof locks on cabinets, and keeping medications out of reach. In the event of poisoning, the Texas Poison Center Network recommends immediately contacting emergency services.
4. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Many household appliances, such as gas stoves, furnaces, and fireplaces, produce carbon monoxide. If these appliances are not properly maintained or ventilated, CO levels can rise to dangerous levels, leading to poisoning. According to the CDC, more than 400 Americans die each year from unintentional CO poisoning, while over 50,000 are treated in emergency rooms.
Texas law requires that rental properties have carbon monoxide detectors installed. However, many homes still do not have them, leaving residents vulnerable. In such cases, a Texas injury attorney may be able to assist victims of CO poisoning in pursuing compensation for their injuries.
5. Electrical Shock Hazards
Many homes contain outdated or faulty electrical wiring that can lead to electrical shock or fires. Extension cords, overloaded outlets, and damaged appliances also present electrical hazards. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), there are an estimated 51,000 home electrical fires each year in the U.S., resulting in nearly 500 deaths and 1,400 injuries.
Homeowners are encouraged to have their electrical systems inspected by professionals, especially if they live in an older house. If an electrical fire or shock occurs due to faulty wiring, the injured party may have grounds to pursue a claim with the help of an accident attorney in Fort Worth.
6. Drowning Risks
Surprisingly, drowning is a significant risk at home, particularly for families with young children. Bathtubs, swimming pools, and even buckets of water can pose drowning risks. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services reports that drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages one to four.
To reduce the risk, parents should never leave young children unattended in or near water, and they should consider installing barriers around pools and spas.
In Texas, pool owners are required by law to install barriers around their pools to prevent unauthorized access. Failure to do so can result in severe legal repercussions if an accident occurs. A Fort Worth personal injury attorney can help you navigate legal claims involving pool-related accidents.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
While no home can be entirely risk-free, taking certain precautions can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. Here are a few steps you can take:
- Install safety devices: Ensure your home has smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
- Conduct regular maintenance: Have professionals regularly inspect your home’s wiring, gas lines, and heating systems.
- Childproof your home: If you have young children, install childproof locks, cover electrical outlets, and put barriers around hazardous areas.
- Stay aware: Regularly review and update your safety measures, especially as your family’s needs evolve.
If an unexpected accident does occur, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact a PI lawyer in Fort Worth, Texas, for a consultation on your case. Whether you seek advice or need legal representation, a Texas injury attorney from Patterson Law Group is ready to help.
Protect Yourself and Your Family
Your home may feel like a safe space, but it’s important to recognize and address the unexpected dangers lurking around every corner. The risks are real, from fires and falls to poisoning and electrical hazards, and preparation is key.
Taking steps to protect your home and family could save you from life-altering injuries or worse. In case of a serious accident, contact an accident attorney in Fort Worth to explore your legal options.
