Slip-and-falls occur when people lose traction and fall. They frequently occur in locations with high levels of foot traffic, such as busy retail shops. Slip-and-falls are often embarrassing, but they can also be serious situations.
People who slip and fall can potentially sustain injuries that have major medical implications. People of all ages, especially older adults, are at risk of fractures if they fall. Broken bones can take weeks to heal and can cause professional complications.
People who slip and fall can also potentially sustain a catastrophic injury that puts them in the hospital, affects their career and changes the course of their life.
People can hit their heads when they fall
Broken bones are common slip-and-fall injuries because people usually try to catch themselves. However, when a fall is especially abrupt, the person who slips may not have any chance to slow their fall. They may hit their head on the ground or on other nearby objects.
The blunt force trauma that they sustain can cause swelling of the brain or bleeding inside the skull. Inflammation or bleeding in the skull puts pressure on the brain, which can cause permanent structural changes to the brain.
People with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) may notice a change in their sensory perception. They may develop challenges with fine motor function or their sense of balance. They frequently experience changes in their personalities and cognitive capabilities as well.
If a slip-and-fall occurs due to inadequate staffing at a business, ignored hazards or other forms of negligence, the people injured in such incidents may have grounds for a premises liability claim. Taking legal action can lead to compensation for major expenses after a slip-and-fall occurs due to poor property maintenance or improper business practices.
