A sudden slip and fall injury can take an ordinary day and turn it into a life-altering event. The simple impact can produce millions in medical bills and a long recovery period–both physically and mentally.
Slip and fall accidents are incredibly common, happening to anyone at any time. With one out of five falls resulting in a serious injury, it’s important to be prepared for the worst or know what to do next if it’s too late.
Our field guide to falls will take an in-depth look at the most common slip and fall injuries and detail how a slip and fall lawyer, like Hoffman Law Firm, can help in the aftermath.
Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Injuries
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 800,000 patients are hospitalized every year because of an injury from a fall. While most falls can be avoidable, sometimes businesses or property owners fail to meet the standards to keep you safe.
These causes can include:
- Wet, slippery floors
- Unsecured carpets or rugs
- Hidden wires/extension cords
- Uneven thresholds
- Failing to know applicable building codes
- Inadequate employee safety training
Most Common Types of Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip and fall injuries can affect any part of the body, from your head down to your toes. Here are some of the most common types of slip and fall injuries:
Head Injuries
Head injuries occur when your head comes into contact with a hard surface. These types of injuries can range in severity, from a minor concussion to a more serious traumatic brain injury (TBI). Even if you feel “fine” or show no symptoms, seek medical treatment. Slip-and-fall head injury symptoms can range from a routine headache to seizures, making medical treatment all the more crucial.
Dislocated Shoulder
In an unexpected fall, it’s common for your shoulder to take a hit, whether it be from the impact of the floor or hitting something on the way down. Your shoulder can become dislocated, meaning the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder blade socket.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries occur when the spinal cord becomes compressed or severed. These injuries can have long-term effects on a person’s overall quality of life, potentially causing full paralysis or loss of sensation in certain limbs. Spinal cord injuries are almost always life-threatening, so seek medical attention immediately.
Injuries of this severity are among the costliest, resulting in millions of dollars within the first year alone. Consult one of our slip and fall attorneys at Hoffman Law Firm to see if you can claim compensation for your medical care.
Knee Injuries
Your knee is a complex collection of bone and ligaments, meaning that a slip and fall injury can result in a lengthy recovery. Ligament tears in your MCL or ACL can end a future in sports or just a normal morning run–all because of a slip and fall. In addition to torn ligaments, you may also dislocate your patella, which can only be remedied by knee reconstruction.
Broken Bones or Sprains
A broken bone or sprain can be a painful and frightening ordeal. While the bones themselves can range from minor fractures to severe breaks, the tissue surrounding the bone can also be damaged in the fall. The road to recovery may include future surgery and/or physical therapy to get back to where you once were.
What Should I Do First After a Slip and Fall?
Seek Medical Care
The first step after a slip and fall accident is to seek medical attention. While not all symptoms are obvious from the start, it’s important to listen to your body. Pain is a crucial symptom to look for after a slip and fall, accompanied by limited or strained mobility, headaches, or dizziness.
Even if the feelings or pain seem minor at first, it is critical to get medical attention to ensure there are no underlying issues.
Survey the Scene
If you are able, it can be crucial to your slip and fall case to take note of the accident scene. Did you slip on a puddle of water that was not indicated by a bright yellow cone? Were objects left on the ground without another person present? This can be critical evidence your slip and fall lawyers will need to help you receive full compensation.
Document the Scene
Following a slip and fall accident, get as many photos and videos as possible to document where your accident occurred. This includes the conditions on the area and what caused you to slip or fall. Note the lighting and the walking surface if they attributed to your fall. Having photo and video evidence can help strengthen your case. Also, observe where the security cameras are located in the area of your accident that may give your attorney additional evidence.
Give a Report – And Get a Copy!
Following your slip and fall, file a report so your accident – and the property owner’s negligence – is properly documented with the authorities and your attorney can handle your case on your behalf. After filing a report, request a copy or ask to simply take a photo for your own records.
Schedule a Consultation with a Personal Injury Attorney Near You
A slip and fall accident can have lasting effects on your physical and financial future. If your fall was due to the negligence of another party, you may qualify for compensation. Hoffman Law Firm offers a free consultation with one of our experienced slip and fall lawyers, and you only pay us if we win.
Consult A Slip and Fall Attorney at Hoffman Law Firm Today
Slip and fall accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere. But that doesn’t mean the rest of your days should be filled with growing medical bills and physical therapy appointments, specifically if your fall was the fault of another party.
Located in Charleston, SC, we support accident victims throughout the Palmetto State. Our personal injury law firm has extensive experience handling a wide variety of cases. We have established a reputation for success, as well as great service!
Contact a member of our team today!
Plus, you only pay if we win your case!
To meet with one of our slip and fall lawyers in Charleston, South Carolina, schedule your free consultation today.
Our personal injury law firm offers trusted legal representation right here in the Lowcountry, including these practice areas:
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Reviewed by Board-Certified Personal Injury Attorney
With a combined legal expertise of over 75 years, Hoffman Law Firm has been serving the locals of Charleston with trusted legal advice and representation in the field of personal injury law. Winning cases ranging from thousands to multimillion-dollar settlements, we have earned a reputable reputation for handling auto accidents, workers’ compensation, slip and fall, and other personal injury cases throughout the Lowcountry for over 15 years and counting.