SLIP AND FALLS

LEADING CAUSE OF INJURY

Slips, Trips and Falls are some of the most common types of accidents affecting people across the country, resulting in thousands of injuries every day, some more serious than others. In most cases, Slip and Fall victims suffer obvious injuries, such as broken bones, dislocations or open wounds, but many others don’t see any signs of apparent injury after a fall and therefore assume they don’t need any medical attention. No matter how minor the fall may seem, you should always get evaluated after a falling accident, whether you fall at work, slip on the ice in a store parking lot or trip on a crack in the sidewalk.

Many Slip and Fall accidents result in hidden injuries, such as concussions, sprain/strain injuries or other soft tissue damage, which may not become evident until days or even weeks after the incident. Seeking medical attention right away after a fall can reduce your risk of experiencing long-lasting injury, chronic pain or even death.

It is of vital importance to understand what Slip and Fall Injuries are and how they can happen. A slip occurs when there is something slick or lacking in friction between the surfaces you are walking on and your feet (bottom of your shoe). Things like spilled liquid, a change in flooring (like moving from carpet to polished floors) or even flooring that isn’t properly secured can causes these incidents.

There are numerous combinations of instances where an individual isn’t able to properly obtain the traction necessary to stay upright and navigate through any type of surface. Trips are just as hazardous as slips and can happen due to almost anything being in the way of the step you are attempting to take.

There are many injuries that can occur as a result of a falling accident, depending on the type and severity of the fall. The following are some of the more common injuries resulting from Slip and Fall accidents:

• Head Injuries
• Shoulder Injuries
• Back and Spinal Cord Injuries
• Hip Fractures
• Knee Injuries
• Sprain/Strains
• Fractures and broken bones
• Neck Injuries
• Internal Bleeding
• Lacerations and Bruising
• Soft Tissue Damage