Casinos are full of bright lights, thrilling games, and endless entertainment. They’re designed to provide a fun experience, but accidents can happen. Unfortunately, a night of excitement can take an unexpected turn.
From slipping on a spilled drink to dealing with a malfunctioning slot machine, there are plenty of ways to get hurt. What types of injuries can happen at a casino?
Let’s break down some common types of personal injuries you might encounter and how to stay safe while enjoying your time.
Slip and Fall Accidents
With so many people moving around, spills and tripping hazards are bound to happen. You might find a spilled drink on the gaming floor, uneven carpeting, or slick tiles around entrances or restrooms. A quick slip and fall could lead to:
- Sprains or strains
- Broken bones, especially in the wrists, hips, or ankles
- Head injuries, including concussions
- Back or spinal injuries
Gaming Equipment Injuries
Slot machines, chairs, and large electronic displays can cause injuries if not properly maintained. For example, a wobbly chair might break when you sit down, or a malfunctioning slot machine could pinch your fingers. Sometimes, a heavy display or sign could fall if not secured properly. In these casino injury scenarios, you could experience everything from crushed bone injuries to neck and head trauma.
Food and Drink-Based Illnesses
Casino restaurants and bars are often a trip highlight but can come with risks. Food poisoning can strike if it is not prepared or stored properly. This can be common at buffets where food is left out. Food poisoning symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. In severe cases, these illnesses could require hospitalization.
Fights and Altercations
With the mix of alcohol, high stakes, and excitement, emotions can sometimes run high in casinos. Unfortunately, this can lead to arguments or even physical fights between guests. Even if you are not directly involved, you could get caught in the crossfire and end up injured.
Casinos usually have security staff on hand to de-escalate situations, but some places may have untrained staff or not enough security. In these cases, injuries could lead to negligent security claims. Injuries resulting from these incidents include:
- Bruises and cuts
- Broken bones from physical fights
- Emotional trauma or distress
Intoxication-Related Injuries
Alcohol is a big part of the casino atmosphere. But with free drinks flowing, song people lose track of how much they have had. Intoxicated guests might stumble, bump into others, or even fall, causing injuries to themselves or someone else. These can range from minor bumps and bruises to broken bones or other serious injuries.
Overserving is a big problem, and if the casino allows an intoxicated person to cause harm on their property, they may be liable.
Parking Lot Accidents
Poor lighting, uneven pavement, or crowded lots can lead to slip and fall accidents. There is also the risk of vehicle collisions or pedestrians being hit, especially in a rush to leave after a big event. These areas can also be a source of injuries, from minor contusions to even death.
Escalator and Elevator Issues
If you’re visiting a multi-level casino, you’ll probably use an escalator or elevator at some point. While convenient, these can pose risks if they’re not properly maintained. Escalators can cause trips or falls, and malfunctioning elevators could leave you stuck or worse. Some potential injuries include:
- Hand and foot injuries on escalators
- Entrapment injuries in faulty elevators
- Bruises, cuts, or broken bones from sudden stops or jerky movements
Burn Incidents
These injuries are less common but can occur in casinos due to several factors. Hot beverages or food spills in dining areas can land on your skin and cause injuries. Even standing by faulty electrical equipment may lead to sparks or fires, which can result in injuries to nearby patrons. Burns may vary from minor scalds to more severe injuries requiring medical attention.
Overcrowding Hazards
Casinos can get packed during busy times like special events or peak hours. Overcrowding can lead to tripping, jostling, or even crush injuries in extreme cases. Trying to move through a crowded gaming floor or standing in long lines can also heighten the risk of accidental falls or collisions.
Staying Safe
According to the Mississippi Gaming Association at least 24.5 million visitors spend time at the state’s casinos. Most of the time, these visits are without incident. And the casinos do their best to create a safe and enjoyable environment, but still, accidents can happen. To protect yourself, you will want to stay aware of your surroundings. If you see something, make sure to report hazards or concerns to staff immediately.
If you get injured, always seek medical attention and document what happened. In cases where the casino ignored hazards or acted in a way that puts people at risk, they could be liable for any injuries and other damages.
In these situations, you will want to reach out to Owen, Owen & Smith, PLLC, to learn about whether you can take legal action.
