Slip and fall accidents are very common. They account for more than 1 million hospital visits per year. They are also the leading cause of workers’ compensation claims. Most cases require at least 31 days of missed work.
Slip and Fall Accidents
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), issues with flooring account for more than 8 million injuries per year. More than
50% of all in-home accidental deaths occur because someone slips and falls.
When someone slips and falls, they commonly break or fracture bones. One of the most common is a hip fracture or break, which causes the most health issues afterward and is the most serious.
Americans over 65 are most at risk, and one in three will fall yearly. Some experience repeat falls.
In 2005 alone, 15,000 people over the age of 65 slipped, fell, and died.
Shockingly, for older Americans over the age of 85, slips and falls are the leading cause of death. After a serious fall, many seniors must be admitted to a nursing home for 24/7 care.
Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident
The world is a dangerous place, and you can encounter many situations that cause you to slip and fall. Here are the steps to take if you experience a slip and fall accident and injury.
- Seek Medical Help – You should seek medical assistance after any slip and fall accident. Even if you don’t think it’s serious, your injuries could prove to be more severe than you think. Keep your medical bills and document any conversations with physicians.
- Fully document the accident scene with pictures or details you write down on paper. Photographs work best.
- Report the Incident – If you were on the job, be sure to report the accident to your employer immediately. Some states require you to report workplace accidents within days, or your claim may be denied. If the accident occurred on public or private property, report it to the building owner, landlord, or manager. Report the accident in writing so you will have documentation.
- Collect witness statements, if you can, who can corroborate the circumstances and events that took place.
- Follow your doctor’s advice to allow your body to heal completely. In some cases, it may mean attending physical therapy.
- Contact your personal injury lawyer for assistance. They can help you determine the next steps and will guide you through the process of litigation against any negligent parties.
- Stay off social media. Don’t post any information about your accident online. It could hurt your case.
- Don’t give any statements to the press or other people who ask for comments about the accident.
Where to Turn for Help
Contact Neufeld Law Firm for help with your case. We specialize in personal injury matters and want to help you get the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.
