May 29, 2023 | Reading Time: 6 min Slip and fall accidents are common occurrences and can happen to anyone at any time. While some may dismiss them as minor incidents, the truth is that slip-and-fall accidents can result in severe, excruciating injuries.
Please get in touch with Cellino Law immediately if you or a loved one suffered an injury in a slip and fall accident due to another’s carelessness. You can schedule a free case review by calling (888) 888-8888 or using our online form.
Slip and Fall Accident Statistics
Slip and fall accidents contribute significantly to personal injury cases, often leading to severe injuries. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, slip and fall accidents account for more than 1 million emergency room visits annually in the United States. Furthermore, they’re the leading cause of workers’ compensation claims and are responsible for approximately 15% of all accidental deaths.
Causes of Slip and Falls
Numerous factors can contribute to slip and fall accidents, including:
- Hazardous walking surfaces: Slippery or uneven surfaces, such as wet floors, icy sidewalks, loose rugs, or damaged flooring, can increase the risk of falls.
- Poor lighting: Insufficient lighting can make it difficult to see potential hazards and obstacles, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Lack of warning signs: Failure to provide warning signs for hazardous areas can lead to unsuspecting individuals slipping and falling.
- Negligence: Property owners or managers who fail to maintain safe premises, address potential hazards, or repair damages may be held responsible for slip and fall accidents on their property.
Injuries Caused by Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may have long-lasting consequences. The severity of the injuries will typically depend on factors. These include the height of the fall, the landing surface, and the age and overall health of the individual involved. Here are some common injuries associated with slip and fall accidents:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
One of the most severe and potentially life-altering injuries resulting from a slip and fall accident is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). When a person’s head directly contacts a hard surface, that can cause the brain to slam into part of the skull.
This internal contact can lead to a range of TBI symptoms, including loss of consciousness, confusion, memory problems, headaches, dizziness, mood changes, and cognitive impairments. In severe cases, TBIs can result in long-term or permanent disabilities, affecting a person’s ability to work, engage in daily activities, and maintain relationships.
Rehabilitation, cognitive therapy, and ongoing medical care are often necessary to manage the effects of a TBI.
Spinal Cord Injury
Slip and fall accidents can also cause spinal cord injuries, which can have devastating consequences. The spinal cord is vital in transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body. When spinal cord damage occurs due to a fall, it can leave a victim either partially or entirely paralyzed, depending on the level and severity of the injury.
Spinal cord injuries can lead to permanent loss of sensation and motor function below the site of the injury, impacting mobility, coordination, and bodily functions. Slip and fall victims who suffer spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical interventions, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and adaptive techniques to regain independence and improve their quality of life.
Back Injuries
The impact of a fall can strain or sprain the ligaments and muscles in the back, leading to acute pain, reduced range of motion, and temporary disability. Falls can cause herniated discs, vertebral fractures, or spinal instability in more severe cases. These injuries can lead to constant back pain, limited mobility, and decreased overall functionality. Treatment for back injuries may include physical therapy, pain management techniques, medication, and, in some cases, surgery.
Broken Bones and Fractures
The force of a slip-and-fall accident can cause fractures or broken bones in many different areas of the body. The wrists, arms, hips, and ankles are particularly susceptible to fractures in such incidents. Fractures can range from relatively minor hairline breaks to horrible compound fractures.
Depending on the severity, fractures may require immobilization through casts or braces, surgical intervention to realign the bone, and extensive rehabilitation to restore strength and mobility. The recovery process can be lengthy, and some accident victims may experience long-term complications or disabilities due to these injuries.
Internal Injuries
While external injuries may be more visible, slip and fall accidents can also cause internal injuries that are not immediately apparent. The impact of a fall can cause severe internal organ damage. This damage can result in internal bleeding, punctured organs, or other internal trauma. Internal injuries can be life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
Symptoms may include abdominal pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or signs of internal bleeding. It is essential to seek medical attention after a fall, even if there are no visible external injuries, to rule out internal damage.
How a Catastrophic Injury Can Change Your Life
Catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries, can significantly impact a person’s life. They often require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and lifestyle adjustments. Individuals may face physical limitations, emotional distress, financial burdens, and a diminished ability to perform daily activities. These life-altering consequences can affect relationships, employment prospects, and overall well-being.
Receiving Compensation for Your Damages
If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be able to obtain compensation for the damages you’ve incurred. These include medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, and more. It will be essential to gather evidence of the accident, such as photographs, witness statements, and medical records, to support your claim.
An experienced attorney can assess your case, guide you through the legal proceedings, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Contact Cellino Law if You’ve Been Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident
Cellino Law has a skilled, dedicated team of slip-and-fall accident attorneys. We have extensive experience in handling premises liability cases and advocating for the rights of injured individuals. We can provide you with the legal representation and guidance you need to seek the compensation you deserve.
Cellino Law will investigate the circumstances of your accident, assess liability, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. We’ll work to negotiate a fair settlement or, if necessary, litigate your case in court to ensure you receive the maximum compensation available. Remember, taking legal action can help alleviate the financial burdens and challenges these accidents bring. It can help you focus on your recovery and rebuild your life.
Don’t hesitate to contact us online or call (888) 888-8888 for a free case review.
Content checked by the personal injury attorney Ross Cellino. As a family man and a trial attorney, I pride myself on winning cases and serving the community. With over 35 years of experience, I understand the function of a jury, how juries arrive at conclusions, and the role that the jury plays in administering justice. I know how to win cases. You can find us in Manhattan, Buffalo, Melville, Rochester, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Queens and other locations throughout New York.