While every case is different, we see repeating patterns in the kinds of stairway conditions that cause falls in Pawtucket:
- Worn or uneven steps in older buildings, where tread wear or slight height differences create a tripping risk.
- Handrail problems—loose rails, missing sections, or rails that don’t provide usable grip.
- Poor lighting in entryways and hallways, especially in stairwells used by residents after dark.
- Blocked stair access from storage, bags, or debris left in common areas.
- Construction and maintenance transitions, such as when landscaping, repairs, or “temporary” fixes leave stairs in a worse condition.
If the fall happened at an apartment building, workplace, or retail entrance, the key question is usually the same: was the hazard known (or discoverable) and were reasonable steps taken to prevent harm?


