Serious Injuries Resulting From Slip and Fall Accidents
April 29, 2024 Posted In Premises Liability
Slip and fall accidents can lead to severe injuries with long-lasting consequences.
Common Serious Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
One of the most severe consequences of a slip and fall accident is a traumatic brain injury. A sudden impact to the head can result in concussions, contusions, or more severe brain damage, leading to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and permanent disability.
Spinal Cord Injuries
A fall can also cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries can have life-altering effects, impacting mobility, sensation, and organ function.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Slips and falls frequently result in fractures and broken bones, particularly in the wrists, hips, and ankles. These injuries can require surgery, prolonged rehabilitation, and may lead to chronic pain and mobility issues.
Internal Injuries
The impact of a fall can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Dislocations
Falls can also result in joint dislocations, where the bones are forced out of their normal positions. Dislocations often require immediate medical attention to reduce the joint and stabilize the injury. Without proper treatment, dislocations can lead to chronic pain, instability, and joint dysfunction.
Long-Term Consequences
The effects of a serious slip and fall injury can extend far beyond the initial accident. Individuals may face extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing therapy. They may also experience chronic pain, disability, and a diminished quality of life. In addition to physical injuries, slip and fall accidents can result in emotional trauma, financial strain, and lost wages due to an inability to work.
Most Common Causes of Severe Slip and Fall Accidents
The most common causes of severe slip and fall accidents include hazardous conditions such as wet or slippery floors, uneven surfaces, poorly maintained walkways, inadequate lighting, and obstacles or debris in pathways. Wet or slippery floors, often caused by spills or leaks, pose a significant risk, particularly in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or entrances. Uneven surfaces, such as cracked sidewalks or loose floorboards, can cause individuals to trip and fall, leading to serious injuries. Poorly maintained walkways, including broken stairs or missing handrails, increase the likelihood of falls, especially for elderly or disabled individuals. Inadequate lighting can also contribute to slip and fall accidents, making it difficult for people to see potential hazards. Finally, obstacles or debris in pathways, such as cables, cords, or clutter, create tripping hazards.
Filing a Slip and Fall Claim
When a slip and fall accident occurs due to negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. In general, property owners, occupiers, or managers have a duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition for visitors. If a hazardous condition, such as a wet floor or uneven surface, contributes to a slip and fall accident, the party responsible for maintaining the property may be liable. This could include homeowners, business owners, landlords, or government entities, depending on the location of the accident. To file a claim and establish liability, it must be shown that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to take reasonable steps to address it.
Consulting a skilled Beaumont slip and fall attorney is essential for understanding your legal rights and options. They can also investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to seek a fair settlement.