What are the Injuries Typically Suffered Following a Slip and Fall Accident?
According to the NSFI, slip and fall accidents can result in very serious injuries, with slip and falls accounting for more than one million visits, or 12 percent of the total number of falls. About five percent of all those who fall will suffer some level of fracture injury; this is even more serious for the elderly who suffer a hip fracture from a slip and fall. Further, among those over the age of 65, a slip and fall may not only cause a fracture but can also lead to a serious spinal cord injury or brain injury.
Such serious injuries to the elderly from a slip and fall can result in the person being unable to return home or live independently. Younger victims of a slip and fall can also be left with serious injuries, which, in turn, can lead to lost work productivity as well as significant pain. While there are many different causes of a slip and fall, floors and flooring materials are a primary cause of these accidents.
Why are broken bones so common among those who slip and fall?
As noted, fractures and broken bones are a common result of a slip and fall accident, and the older a person is, the more likely they will break a bone during a slip and fall accident. That being said, a person of any age, or a person who is particularly fragile, can also break a bone during a slip and fall accident. Any time there is more pressure on a bone than it can withstand, a broken bone or fracture can occur. During a slip and fall accident, broken wrists, ankles, and hips are the most likely to occur when that area of the body strikes a hard surface with a significant level of force.
Do cuts and bruises often occur after a slip and fall accident?
Cuts and bruises are extremely common following a slip and fall accident. Depending on how you fall—and what fleshy part of your body strikes the hard flooring surface—you could have bruising or a deep cut if there is a sharp object on the floor. Those who fall face-forward can even have disfiguring cuts and bruises, whether temporary or permanent.
Are sprained ankles and wrists a common result of a slip and fall?
Those who suffer a slip and fall usually try to catch themselves with their hands, placing a tremendous strain on the wrist, and often resulting in a sprain. A slip and fall can also result in a sprained ankle. Depending on your age and overall health, sprains can cause considerable pain, as well as difficulty accomplishing everyday tasks. If your job involves using a computer, a wrist sprain can keep you from returning to work and making a living for a length of time.
Can knee damage occur from a slip and fall?
A person who suffers a slip and fall injury often twists a knee as they fall, potentially tearing the MCL or ACL, or dislocating the patella. Knees consist of a complex collection of bone and ligament and can take a significant time to heal. Many of those who injure their knee in a slip and fall may require knee reconstruction immediately, or in the future. Even if you have health insurance, knee injuries, and knee surgery can cost a considerable amount of money and take a very long time to heal.
What about shoulder dislocations or muscle strains after a slip and fall accident?
In some cases, you could strike your shoulder when you fall or could reach out as you fall, jarring your shoulder. Some shoulder dislocations and strains can require immediate surgery, or, at the very least, a long-term course of treatment and physical therapy.
Could such serious injuries as spinal damage or traumatic brain injury result from a slip and fall?
Although most slip and falls do not result in permanent damage to the spinal cord or a severe traumatic brain injury, if a person strikes their head on a hard surface, a brain injury could occur, or if they take a very hard hit to their spine, a serious, even permanently debilitating injury could occur. Minor concussions and brain injuries are fairly common results of a slip and fall, and a back injury that can cause pain for months or years to come also occur frequently.
Why Medical and Legal Assistance are Crucial Following a Slip and Fall Accident
If you suffer a slip and fall accident, it is imperative that you seek qualified medical attention—and follow all doctor’s instructions. As soon as you have attended to your health, you should speak to an experienced Lee Hoffoss Injury Lawyers personal injury attorney to ensure your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering are fully covered. Contact Lee Hoffoss Injury Lawyers today!