Can You Die from Falling Down the Stairs?

Can you die from falling down the stairs? It’s a question we hear often, especially from those who’ve experienced or witnessed a frightening fall. Unfortunately, the answer is yes, and these accidents can have devastating consequences. A fall may seem like a minor mishap, but under the wrong circumstances—such as hitting your head, falling from a significant height, or landing awkwardly—it can turn deadly.

At Parnall Law, we’ve worked with many clients across New Mexico who suffered severe injuries due to staircase accidents, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and, in tragic cases, fatal outcomes. Falls on stairs are not just physically damaging—they can cause emotional and financial turmoil for entire families. When negligence is involved, holding the right party accountable can be crucial to recovery, both for medical expenses and the justice our clients deserve.

How Common Is Falling Down the Stairs?

It might surprise you just how often people fall on stairs. According to the National Safety Council, close to a million Americans get hurt in stair-related falls each year. Homes, offices, public buildings—no place is immune.

In New Mexico, older buildings and outdated stairways add extra risk. Many lack essentials like proper railings or anti-slip surfaces. And older adults? They’re hit hardest. Nationally, over 3 million seniors end up in the ER each year due to falls, and staircases are a frequent cause.

These aren’t just minor bruises we’re talking about:

• Fractured hips, wrists, or ankles
• Serious concussions
• Spinal injuries
• Deep cuts and internal injuries

Can People Actually Die from Falling Down the Stairs?

Yes, falling down the stairs can be fatal. While not every fall leads to death, the risk increases significantly with factors such as age, height of the fall, and existing health conditions.

The World Health Organization reports that falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths globally, with an estimated 684,000 fatal falls each year. A significant portion of these occur on stairs. This is a serious public health issue, especially in areas with an aging population and outdated infrastructure.

Common fatal outcomes from stair falls include:

• Severe traumatic brain injuries, which may lead to long-term cognitive impairment, loss of coordination, or even coma depending on the force of impact and how quickly treatment is received.
• Neck and spinal cord trauma, often resulting in partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, and permanent disability if the vertebrae or spinal nerves are damaged.
• Internal organ damage, such as ruptured spleens or internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not identified and treated promptly in a medical facility.
• Complications from immobilization (especially in elderly victims), including bedsores, blood clots, respiratory infections, or muscle atrophy from prolonged hospital stays or inability to move.

Can Someone Else Be Liable If I Fall Down the Stairs?

Yes, liability can fall on another party if your injury resulted from negligence. In New Mexico, property owners—including landlords, business operators, and property managers—have a legal obligation to maintain premises that are safe and hazard-free for visitors, tenants, and patrons. When they fail to meet these obligations, and someone is harmed as a result, they may be held legally responsible under premises liability laws.

This is especially true in environments where there is frequent foot traffic or where vulnerable individuals—like the elderly or disabled—are expected to navigate potentially dangerous conditions. You may have a valid slip and fall claim if your accident was caused by a hazardous condition that should have been corrected or clearly marked. Common examples include:

• Poor lighting in stairwells that makes visibility difficult
• Broken, wobbly, or entirely missing handrails
• Worn or loose carpeting that bunches or slips underfoot
• Uneven or irregular stair heights that disrupt footing
• Slippery or wet surfaces without signage or warnings

Premises liability cases require proving that the property owner knew—or should have known—about the dangerous condition and failed to act.

Tips to Prevent Falls

Many stair-related accidents are preventable. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or simply trying to keep your family safe, there are several proactive steps you can take.

Here are practical ways to reduce your risk of stairway falls:

• Put in solid handrails on both sides of the stairs to provide dependable support for people of all ages and abilities, reducing the risk of losing balance.
• Use bright lighting throughout stairwells and landings so each step is clearly visible, especially at night or in homes with low natural light.
• Secure rugs or carpeting that could shift or wrinkle, creating tripping hazards that might otherwise go unnoticed until it’s too late.
• Keep stairways clutter-free—don’t allow bags, shoes, toys, or anything else to accumulate where someone could easily trip or misstep.
• Add non-slip tread strips on smooth or polished stair surfaces to improve traction, especially in homes with pets, kids, or older adults.
• Take your time on stairs, particularly when you’re distracted or carrying groceries, laundry, or your phone—rushing increases the risk of misjudging a step or losing balance.

In homes with elderly individuals, additional safety measures like stair lifts or motion-sensor lights may be worth considering.

Should I Contact a Slip and Fall Lawyer?

Without a doubt. If a stair fall left you injured, don’t face the aftermath alone. Between hospital bills, time off work, and pain that drags on for months, the toll is real. And if someone else caused your fall, why should you carry that burden?

We’ve helped people across New Mexico get answers—and justice. We don’t believe in shortcuts, and we won’t back down from tough cases. If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, let’s talk. That first conversation? It won’t cost you a thing.

Stair Fall Injury? Let’s Talk

At the end of the day, a stair fall can change everything in an instant. If you or someone you love is picking up the pieces after one, reach out to Parnall Law at (505) 448-7990. We’ll help you figure out what went wrong—and fight for what’s right.

Call now or send us a message to schedule your free consultation with a dedicated New Mexico slip and fall attorney.