Stairway injuries often come from hazards that are common in the local mix of older structures, compact housing layouts, and property-managed buildings. In Boulder City, the patterns we investigate typically include:
- Poor lighting in entry stairwells (especially where bulbs, motion sensors, or fixtures aren’t maintained)
- Loose or missing handrails in multi-unit buildings and common areas
- Uneven treads and worn nosing that can be hard to notice until it’s too late
- Cluttered landings—items stored near stairs, seasonal debris, or construction materials left in walkways
- Weather-related tracking near entrances that leads to slick surfaces on steps
Even when the hazard looks “minor,” the injury can be serious—wrenched knees, back injuries, fractures, and complications that develop after the initial medical visit.


