Stick-and-fall: A previously unstudied type of fall

Abstract

A stick-and-fall event, previously unstudied, is described as a fall on a walkway with no apparent tripping hazard and characterized by the sole or heel of the swinging foot catching on the surface of a level walkway to cause the foot to "stick" to the surface and result in a possible stumble or fall. Four separate case studies are provided to describe example stick-and-fall events that resulted in litigation. Relevant walkway, shoe and pedestrian factors unique to stick-and-fall events are examined as well as factors that are shared with typical trip, slip and stumble events. Discussion includes potential for future research.