One of the first common slip and fall injury facts is we can tell you is slips and falls are one of the leading causes of injuries for adults.
At least one million people visit an emergency room every year after a slip and fall accident. These types of injuries make up about 15% of on-the-job injuries and are responsible for 12% to 15% of workers’ compensation claims. They’re also responsible for over 17,000 fatalities annually.
Many slips and falls result in bruises, a sore muscle or two, and a serving of embarrassment. But many people don’t consider how dangerous—or expensive—a slip and fall might be until it happens to them.
Common Injuries
Slip and fall accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, depending on the type of flooring involved. Hard floors most commonly cause injuries, but even a carpeted surface can leave someone with:
• Bruises, cuts, and lacerations
• Bone fractures and breaks, particularly hip fractures
• Skull, head, and neck injuries
• Joint damage and dislocation
• Spinal injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
These injuries can leave a person out of commission and unemployed for some time.
Not Just For Seniors
Most people think slip and fall injuries only happen to seniors over 65. But that’s not necessarily true—anyone in any age group can be seriously injured by a slip and fall. They are the second most common cause of injury for ages 10-24 for non-fatal injuries, and the top cause of injury for every other age group.
Though people over 65 are more prone to slipping and falling, thereby increasing the potential for slip and fall injuries. It’s also the leading cause of death for seniors. On the job, slip and falls are the most prominent cause of worker injuries in those over 55.
In the case of nursing home residents, about 60% will have a fall at least once a year. This is particularly prevalent in nursing homes that have inadequate staffing. Residents who need assistance and don’t get it to decide to get up themselves, even if shouldn’t, leading to a fall.
Hip fractures are very common and require invasive and painful surgery. They can lead to limited mobility as well as additional pain and suffering.
On The Job
Injured workers who have a slip and fall miss, on average, 11 days of work. That doesn’t consider the loss of productivity for a team depending on that injured worker.
Slip and fall accidents are the primary cause of lost workdays. About 85% of workers comp claims are due to employees slipping on a slick floor.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that floors and materials used on floors are directly responsible for 2 million slips and falls every year.
The Costs Of A Slip And Fall
Like many things, the cost isn’t something you consider until you have to. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that the average cost of a slip and fall accident runs between $30,000 and $40,000, which includes expenses for:
• Hospital visits
• Rehabilitation
• Prescriptions
• Insurance processing
• Other related costs
This is just a preliminary list and does not include things like lost work time, the need for assistance, and potential long-term disability.
For a senior who falls, that cost escalates because of the increased needs of someone over 65.
Contact Paxton Law Today For Slip And Fall Injuries
Often falls are preventable and can be due to another person’s negligence.
If you or a loved one was injured in a slip and fall, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries. An attorney experienced with these types of cases can help you understand your rights and discover who may be liable for your losses and injuries. Contact the attorneys at The Paxton Law Firm today at 281-978-2244 or use our online contact form to schedule your free consultation with our legal team. Let us help you handle your legal case so you can move forward after an accident.
