Common Injuries from Slip and Fall Cases
Slip and falls account for more than 8 million emergency room visits and 1 million hospitalizations annually. The injuries from a slip and fall can be devastating, requiring an injured person to undergo surgery, rehabilitative therapy, as well as the need to implement home modifications.
Not all injuries are physical, which can be evidenced by the psychological toll that a slip and fall victim may endure. These noneconomic losses may prevent individuals from spending time with their family, providing emotional support to their children, or having an intimate relationship with a spouse or partner.
The effects of a slip and fall can be felt for years to come. If you or a loved one have suffered a slip and fall, our Buffalo slip and fall lawyers are prepared to provide aggressive representation against the insurance company.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
With a disruption to normal brain activity, many fall victims suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The vast majority of TBI victims suffer closed (non-penetrating) injuries, resulting in the brain shaking back and forth rapidly within the skull. Symptoms of a TBI can range in severity, including headaches, dizziness, loss of consciousness, communication difficulties, and coma.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves can cause tingling, weakness, and the inability to move below the site of injury. With a fall causing a sudden impact on the spine, it is common for fall victims to experience a spinal cord injury, especially in older adults. In fact, a recent study revealed that 75% of spinal cord injuries in adults 76 years of age and older are due to falls.
Soft Tissue Injuries
While common with rigorous physical activity, a soft tissue injury can occur after a fall if a person strains any muscles, ligaments, or tendons. Common signs of a soft tissue injury can include bruises, inflammation, pain, and swelling. Generally, soft tissue injuries require rest, elevation, and ice, but in some cases, a person may need to seek medical care.
Fractures
Falls can cause broken bones or fractures. Common symptoms of a fracture may include intense pain, swelling, and deformity of the limb. Shoulder, forearm, and hip fractures are typical after falls, sometimes requiring surgical intervention.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Once a person has experienced a trauma, the individual may become afraid of falling, having flashbacks to the moment they slipped. Known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a person may experience mood disturbances such as sadness, fear, or anger, as well as having nightmares about the event. PTSD following a slip and fall may cause a person to avoid walking or exercise, having a large impact on both their mental and physical health.
Compensatory Damages
When you work with a Buffalo slip and fall attorney, you are increasing the likelihood that you will be compensated to the fullest extent for your injuries. If you have been injured in a slip and fall, you may be eligible to receive compensation for economic and noneconomic damages.
Economic damages are pecuniary losses that take money directly out of your pocketbook. These may include any of the following:
- Lost wages
- Ambulatory services
- Surgeries and procedures
- Physical therapy
- Home modifications
Noneconomic damages, in contrast, are any losses that do not inherently have monetary value but impact your quality of life. These may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Negligent infliction of emotional distress
- Loss of companionship and society
- Loss of consortium
- Damage to reputation
Injured in a Slip and Fall? Discuss Your Case with our Buffalo, NY Slip, and Fall Lawyers Now
If you have experienced a slip and fall, your injuries may surmount to more than scrapes and bruises. At Steve Foley Law Firm, our Buffalo slip and fall lawyers understand the effect that a fall injury can have on your home, work, and social life. If you are ready to speak with a lawyer, contact us online or by phone to schedule your free consultation today.