It’s no secret that slip and fall accidents are dangerous. What may be less known, however, is just how dangerous they can be. In fact, falls are the leading cause of injury in the United States, resulting in more than 8 million doctor visits and 2 million emergency room visits each year. And while many people think that slips and falls only happen to the elderly, the truth is that anyone can be at risk.
1) Falls can cause injuries
First, falls can cause serious injuries, ranging from cuts and bruises to broken bones and head injuries. Plus, the older you are, the greater the risk of serious injury from a fall. In fact, falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
For example, a hip fracture can be extremely debilitating, often requiring surgery and a long recovery period. And if you hit your head in a fall, you could end up with a concussion or even a brain injury.
In addition to physical injuries, falls can also lead to psychological trauma. The fear of falling can make you more likely to fall in the future. This is especially true for older adults, who may become so afraid of falling that they limit their activities and become less active overall. This can lead to a decline in physical condition, which increases the risk of falls even further.
2) What should you do if you fall?
If you do happen to fall, it’s important to stay calm and assess the situation. If you can, get up slowly and carefully. If you’re injured or can’t get up, don’t try to move too much. This could make your injuries worse.
Instead, call for help or wait until someone comes to your aid. Once you’re out of immediate danger, you can begin to assess the extent of your injuries and get medical help if necessary.
If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Your lawyer can help you understand your rights and the options available to you. If you’re looking for a Las Vegas slip and fall attorney, you can find experienced professionals who can help you get the compensation you deserve. Simply conducting an online search can provide you with a list of potential lawyers in your area.
In many cases, slip and fall accidents are caused by the negligence of someone else. If this is the case, you may be able to file a lawsuit to recover damages. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
3) How to prevent slip and fall accidents
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of falling. For one thing, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. If you’re walking in an unfamiliar place, pay attention to where you’re going and watch out for potential hazards.
Another good idea is to wear shoes that are appropriate for the situation. For example, if you’re walking on a slippery surface, make sure you’re wearing shoes with good traction. If you’re going to be standing for a long period of time, wear comfortable shoes that provide support.
In addition, it’s important to stay physically active and maintain your strength and balance. This is especially true as you get older. Exercise can help you stay strong and improve your balance, which can reduce your risk of falling.
Finally, it’s important to make your home safe from falls. Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs, electrical cords, and cluttered floors. Install handrails on stairways and in the bathtub or shower. And make sure your home is well-lit, both inside and out.
4) Things to keep in mind
If you or someone you love has been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to get medical help as soon as possible. This will ensure that your injuries are treated and will also provide documentation of your injuries for future reference.
Second, it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and the options available to you.
And finally, it’s important to remember that accidents happen. If you or someone you love has been injured in a slip and fall, don’t be too hard on yourself. These things can happen to anyone. The important thing is to learn from the experience and take steps to prevent it from happening again.
Slip-and-fall accidents can be dangerous, especially if you’re injured. If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Your lawyer can help you understand your rights and the options available to you. You may be able to file a lawsuit to recover damages for your injuries.