Falling because of a hazardous environment can have lasting consequences. Slip-and-fall accidents are among the most common injuries people experience, so it's important to understand what could happen if you suffer such a tragedy.
This article outlines the injuries often associated with slip-and-fall accidents, from minor scrapes to serious brain injury.
Broken Bones
Slip-and-fall accidents are incorrectly viewed as minor incidents, but they often result in serious injuries. The human body is not designed to withstand the impact of a sudden fall, and bones often receive the brunt of the force.
Broken bones can result in excruciating pain, limited mobility, and lengthy recovery times. Depending on the severity of the break, surgery may be required to fix the bone. These procedures are both emotionally and financially taxing.
When there is damage to the spine, nerves can sever, creating paralysis.
Head Trauma
Like the other bones we mentioned, your skull is susceptible to damage from a sudden impact. Such trauma can lead to brain injuries, concussions, and other devastating consequences.
The symptoms of head injuries range from mild to severe. On the lower end, symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and nausea. More severe injuries can create memory loss, cognitive impairment, or dysfunction in other systems like digestion.
Understand that the dangers of head trauma after a slip-and-fall accident are real, and you must seek medical attention immediately after a fall.
Skin Damage
Slip-and-fall accidents often cause skin damage, including bruises, cuts, and scrapes.
Bruises occur when small blood vessels beneath the skin are damaged, discoloring the affected area.
Cuts and scrapes, on the other hand, are the result of the skin being torn or punctured.
Depending on the severity of the injury, a slip-and-fall accident may also result in more serious skin damage, such as lacerations or fractures.
Muscle Injuries
Slip-and-falls are a common event that can lead to muscle injuries like sprains and strains. This damage occurs when a muscle is stretched beyond its limits or torn during impact.
The most common symptoms of muscle injuries are pain, swelling, and difficulty moving. Some muscle injuries are minor and heal on their own, but others may require medical treatment, surgery, or rehabilitation to heal properly.
Regardless of the severity, you must treat muscle injuries promptly to avoid further damage.
Internal Injuries
Many people only suffer minor scrapes or bruises from a fall, but others can suffer life-threatening internal damage.
Internal injury comes from the impact of the fall, which causes trauma to various organs and systems within the body. For example, falling onto your back can cause spinal cord damage or rib fractures that may puncture a lung, or a hard blow to the abdomen can lead to organ damage.
In some cases, internal bleeding is not immediately noticeable and poses significant risks when left untreated. That's why it's essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a slip and fall, even if you feel okay. Ignoring any potential injuries could lead to more significant health issues down the road.
Seeking Medical Attention for Slip-and-Fall Injuries
If you've slipped and fallen, you may be tempted to brush it off and continue with your day. However, it's important to seek medical attention for any injuries you may have sustained. Some injuries may not be immediately obvious and worsen over time.
Receiving prompt medical attention can also help you document your injuries for insurance or personal injury purposes. Seek medical help right after a slip-and-fall. Doing so could make all the difference in your recovery and your ability to receive compensation for your damages.
Businesses Owner’s Responsibility to Protect You from Slip-and-Fall Injuries
When we walk into a business, we assume the owners have taken the necessary precautions to protect us from injuries. However, this is not always the case.
Businesses have a legal responsibility to maintain a safe environment for their customers. From cleaning up spills to posting proper signage in hazardous areas, companies can take various steps to prevent slip-and-falls.
When they fail to meet this obligation, you have a right to hold them accountable.
Masella Law Firm, P.A. can represent you in your slip-and-fall case. If you need help, call us today at (803) 938-4952 or contact us online.