Slip and fall accidents can result in life-changing injuries. Thousands of people are injured every day in slip-and fall accidents. These can happen at any time, anywhere, and even to the most prepared individuals. Environmental factors, as well as human negligence, can contribute to a slip and fall accident. It’s important to be able to recognize what potential hazards to avoid. A slip and fall accident is not just a jolt to your day, but can impact your future in extreme cases. Keep reading to learn more about the most common types of slip and fall accidents, as well as the places they are most likely to happen.
What are the Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents?
Black ice: When the temperature drops, a thin layer of ice, commonly known as black ice, forms over most walking surfaces. Slipping on black ice can cause debilitating injuries that can affect the head, neck, spine, and legs.
Slippery floors: Spilled liquids, melted ice, and greasy substances are the most common causes of slippery floors. In many cases, these causes of slippery floors can be invisible to the human eye and result in serious injuries.
Staircases and ramps: Loose steps and uneven surfaces can cause even the most coordinated person to trip and fall. These types of falls could result in damaging injuries to the feet and ankles, such as a sprained foot or twisted ankle.
Uneven surfaces: Old sidewalks, poorly maintained roads, and lifted floorboards can contribute to slip and fall injuries. These types of injuries are commonly the causes of lawsuits, as these types of accidents can be prevented by consistent property maintenance.
Unstable surfaces: Both natural and manmade surfaces can become unstable over time. Sand, wooded trails, and stone paths can all contribute to slip and fall accidents.
What are Common Injuries From Slip and Fall Accidents?
Slip and fall accidents can affect every part of a person’s body, whether they feel it immediately or not. The quick, unexpected impact can ultimately affect major body parts and systems. For example, a fast fall could result in a person landing on their head and ending up with a traumatic brain injury. Additionally, there are other major injuries that can result from a slip and fall accident, which include:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Hip fractures
- Sprained wrists or ankles
- Cuts and abrasions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Shoulder or neck injury
- Knee damage
If you’ve been seriously injured in a slip and fall accident, it’s important to seek out medical help as soon as possible. Some injuries may present themselves right away, while others may come on later on. Be sure to take the proper precautions such as wearing appropriate footwear, being aware of your surroundings, and reporting unstable or unsafe areas as soon as possible.