Help Prevent and Respond to Slips and Falls: Lessons From Claims

Slips and falls are a frequent source of liability claims at educational institutions and the leading cause of non-fatal emergency department visits in the United States.

Constant foot traffic in buildings and on campus sidewalks creates a continual slip-and-fall possibility, further exacerbated by the many walkways that need to be kept clear of hazards. Injuries can range from minor bruises to severe fractures, cuts, and concussions.

United Educators (UE) reviewed 434 slip-and-fall claims, from higher education and K-12 institutions, that incurred a financial loss and were received from 2016 through 2020. These claims cost our members and UE more than $25 million combined. While the median loss amount was around $15,000, the losses spanned a broad range with some costing under $1,000 and others more than $1 million.

• Document and respond to all slips and falls.
• Know the property and events for which your school is responsible.
• Incorporate signage and physical barriers for hazards that can’t be fixed immediately.