Every year, slip and fall accidents lead to over 9 million emergency room visits in the United States. Additionally, slip and fall accidents are among the most common causes of unintentional death in the United States. Many slips and fall accidents are mild, and victims recover quickly.
However, some slip and fall accidents caused serious injuries that require extensive physical rehabilitation and expensive medical care. In worst-case scenarios, a victim will die or become severely disabled and require around-the-clock care after becoming injured in a slip and fall accident. We will discuss some of the most common injuries caused by slip and fall accidents below.
Head Injuries
During a slip-and-fall injury, the victim can hit his or her head on the hard concrete or another object while falling. Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Brain injuries range from minor concussions that will heal with rest to severe traumatic brain injuries that require ongoing medical care.
Slip and Fall Accidents: Spinal Cord Injuries
When a person hits the ground with great force, their spinal cord can become injured. The force of the fall can cause herniated or slipped discs and can even fracture spinal vertebrae. Depending on the location of the injury, the victim may become wholly or partially paralyzed. Spinal cord injuries can also result in sensory and neurologic impairment.
Hip Fractures
Hip fractures are particularly common injuries caused by slip and fall accidents. The older the individual, the more difficult it will be for him or her to recover from a hip fracture. According to the CDC, over 95% of broken hips are due to fall accidents. Hip fractures usually require invasive surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Some patients will never recover their full hip mobility, even after undergoing surgery and extensive physical therapy.
Slip and Fall Accidents: Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries can occur when the victim falls on his or her shoulder. Shoulder injuries can also occur when the victim puts out his or her hands to brace for the fall, and the force of the accident causes shoulder dislocation or brachial plexus injury. The brachial plexus nerves connect the shoulder to the spinal cord, hand, and arm. Painful surgeries require follow-up and physical therapy.
Fractures and Sprains
Tripping, slipping, and falling can cause the victim to twist an ankle, or knee, or damage a wrist. Landing on the floor hard can cause bone fractures and nerve damage. Some bone fractures are severe enough to require surgery.
Contact a Missouri Slip and Fall Lawyer
If you have been injured and a slip and fall accident, you are probably concerned about paying your extensive medical bills, and you may not be able to return to work due to your injuries. If someone else’s negligence and recklessness caused your slip and fall injury, Griggs Injury Law is here to help. Our experienced personal injury lawyers will carefully investigate your case and will help you obtain the settlement you deserve from the insurance company or through a personal injury lawsuit. Contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation.
