People often generalize their experiences to better handle the complexities of modern life. Generalizations can be beneficial in some scenarios but harmful in others. For example, someone who has previously experienced a same-level fall, like a slip-and-fall at a store, may wrongfully assume that every same-level fall is like the one that they already experienced.
They may operate under the misconception that slip-and-falls only produce minor injuries. In reality, slip-and-falls can potentially cause numerous different injuries that can have major financial and personal implications for an individual who falls. The following are some of the most concerning injuries associated with slip-and-falls, trip-and-falls or other same-level falls.
Soft tissue injuries
Someone falling abruptly may try to slow themselves down or brace against the incoming impact. They could very easily suffer soft tissue injuries ranging from contusions to sprains and strains because of what happens when they fall. Soft tissue injuries can cost thousands of dollars to treat in some cases. More extreme strains and sprains that result in tears could require surgery. People may also miss work because of the symptoms created by soft tissue injuries.
Broken bones
The attempt to slow one’s body down during a fall doesn’t just lead to someone pulling muscles or hurting their joints. They could also break a bone. The risk of a broken bone is particularly high for those over the age of 50 at the time of the fall, and adults over 65 have higher-than-average risk of falling. Fractures caused by a slip-and-fall could leave someone unable to use their dominant arm or walk without assistance.
Traumatic brain injuries
The worst possible outcome in a slip and fall is a situation in which someone cannot slow down and hits their head on the floor or other items nearby. Blunt-force trauma to the head can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) that produce a variety of debilitating symptoms. People with brain injuries may require tens of thousands of dollars in medical treatment and may even find themselves struggling to continue working because of the symptoms they experience.
Those who slip and fall may require medical evaluation. If they have a significant injury, they may also need to pursue a premises liability lawsuit against the property owner or business responsible for safely maintaining the facility where they slipped and fell. Seeking legal guidance is a good way to get started.