When someone is asked to list the types of accidents they assume are most likely to cause serious injury, they may mention car accidents, construction accidents, and other incidents of the sort.
They are not incorrect when naming these specific types of accidents. Motor vehicle accidents and accidents that occur at construction sites often have the tendency to leave victims with significant injuries.
However, many people overlook slip and fall accidents when asked which types of accidents they assume will cause major harm. It’s not uncommon for people to assume that unless a falling accident involves falling from a high height, the odds that it will cause substantial harm are very low.
This is not the case. Slip and fall accidents have the potential to seriously injure those involved in them. That’s why it’s essential that property owners and managers take all reasonable steps to minimize the odds of such accidents occurring on their properties.
Are Slip & Fall Accidents Serious?
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shed light on just how serious a slip and fall accident can be. According to the CDC, in the United States, one out of every five falling accidents will result in some form of serious injury to a victim. Additionally:
- Falling accidents result in the hospitalization of 800,000 people a year in the US
- Emergency departments in the US treat 3 million older people for injuries resulting from falling accidents every year
- Nearly all (95 percent) of hip fractures are the result of falling accidents
A hip fracture is not the only type of injury one may sustain if they are involved in a slip and fall or similar accident. Often, victims of falling accidents strike their heads on the floor or other surfaces as they are falling. This can cause everything from a concussion to serious brain trauma that may have a negative impact on a victim’s memory, cognition, mood, and even their personality if their injuries are particularly severe.
Victims of falling accidents also frequently sustain injuries in their hands, arms, and wrists. This is due to the way people often naturally react when they are falling. Instinctively, people may thrust their arms outward in an effort to grab a surface and prevent their fall. This can actually result in harm.
What To Do After a Falling Accident
If you are involved in a falling accident on someone else’s property, immediately report the accident to the property owner or manager. It’s also wise to take pictures of any conditions at the scene that may have caused your accident, such as a spill on the floor. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses as well.
Next, see a doctor right away. This is a critical step even if you don’t believe you have been injured. You might have sustained an injury without noticing it.
After you’ve received medical treatment, if you have any reason whatsoever to suspect your accident may have resulted from another party’s negligence, strongly consider meeting with an attorney. At the Boston slip and fall law firm of Colucci, Colucci & Marcus, P.C., we will review your case and let you know if you have grounds to file a claim or lawsuit seeking compensation for your medical bills and other such losses. Learn more about how we can help by contacting us online today or calling us at 617-917-3917 to schedule your free case evaluation.
