Trip & Falls on Curb Stops
New Jersey Premises Liability Lawyer
One common cause of trip and falls is a curb stop (also referred to as wheel stops, tire stops, parking bumpers, and parking stops in parking lots). These are simply long blocks of concrete or other solid material about the length of a curb designed to stop the motion of a vehicle. Unfortunately, these objects can often be directly in the way of pedestrian foot traffic and can be easily missed—leading to serious accidents and serious resulting injuries.
Accidents involving tripping are overwhelmingly caused by a sudden change in the level of the ground—making the sudden presence of a curb stop a serious hazard to someone who is not expecting it.
When & How Should Curb Stops Be Used?
According to the ASTM Standard F1637 Safe Pedestrian Walking Surfaces:
- Parking lots should be designed to avoid the use of curb stops.
- If curb stops are used, they should not be placed in walkways.
- Any curb stop that is used should contrast its surroundings.
- Curb stops should never be longer than 6 feet and no taller than 6.5 inches.
- Curb stops should never be in the center of a parking stall.
- There should be at least three feet for pedestrian passage between curb stops.
- Curb stops should be maintained with adequate illumination.
Protecting Individuals Injured in Trip & Fall Accidents
If you or someone you love was injured in a serious trip and fall accident involving a curb stop, we can help. We have 80 years of experience and are one of the largest law firms in New Jersey that is exclusively devoted to the representation of the injured. If you would like to discuss your case with a personal injury lawyer who has the resources to take on your case and a genuine interest in protecting your best interest, call today.
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