What Are Long-Term Injuries From a Slip and Fall Accident?

Many people assume slip and falls are minor accidents that can cause a few bumps and bruises, but fall injuries can be much more severe.

Many people assume slip and falls are minor accidents that can cause a few bumps and bruises, at most. Victims of serious falls, however, can attest to the potentially catastrophic nature of these accidents. A slip and fall accident that injures a senior citizen, or one that involves dangerous circumstances such as a long drop, can cause many long-term injuries.

Hip Fractures and Related Complications

Falls are a common cause of serious injuries and deaths in the elderly population. One in five fall accidents causes serious injuries, such as broken bones (source: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Hip fractures are one of the most common fall-related injuries that hospitalize victims – especially the elderly. Falls cause more than 95% of all hip fractures in the US. Falling once as someone 65 or older doubles your chances of falling again.

A hip fracture can become a long-term injury for a senior citizen by keeping him or her immobile for a long time. The lengthy healing process can lead to the victim becoming stagnant, along with related health problems such as blood clots, bed sores, urinary tract infections, other infections and muscle atrophy. The injured senior may then be more prone to other injuries and illnesses, as well as an overall decline in health that could lead to death. A senior citizen may never fully recover from a fall-related hip fracture. Other broken bones in the body can also take a long time to heal, resulting in damages such as lost wages and reduced quality of life.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

A common long-term injury related to a fall accident is brain trauma, which can include various head injuries. It can be easy for a victim to hit his or her head on an object or the ground during a slip and fall accident, leading to a head injury. Blunt force trauma to the head could cause a skull fracture and/or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

A TBI may cause symptoms for the victim for weeks, months or life. Long-lasting symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, memory loss, cognitive dysfunction, loss of motor skills, trouble sleeping and behavioral changes. Brain cell damage is irreversible in many TBI cases. Some TBI victims overcome their injuries with treatments and medications, while others have to live with the effects of their brain injuries for life.

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

Aside from the brain, the spinal cord is the area of the body most sensitive to serious injuries in a fall accident. If a slip or trip and fall accident impacts the back or spinal cord, the victim could suffer long-lasting consequences. Nerve damage to the spinal cord, for example, could cause the long-term or permanent loss of feeling and function below the place of injury (paralysis).

Even a more minor back injury, such as a slipped or herniated disk, could cause chronic pain and suffering for the victim. Many serious spinal injuries from falls require surgeries and long periods of rehabilitation before the victim feels normal again.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries are a common consequence of slip and fall accidents. These injuries can occur in various parts of the body, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Soft tissue injuries can be caused by a direct impact or a sudden twisting motion during a fall. Symptoms of soft tissue injuries may include pain, swelling, limited mobility, and bruising. In some cases, soft tissue injuries can be severe and require extensive medical treatment, including physical therapy and pain management.

Soft tissue injuries can be classified into different types, including:

• Contusions: A contusion is a type of soft tissue injury that occurs when a muscle or soft tissue is directly affected in a slip and fall accident or from a direct blow.
• Sprains: A sprain is a type of soft tissue injury that occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn.
• Strains: A strain is a type of soft tissue injury that occurs when a muscle or tendon is stretched or torn.

It is essential to seek medical attention immediately after a slip and fall accident, even if you do not think you have suffered any serious injuries. Soft tissue injuries can be difficult to diagnose, and if left untreated, they can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility.

Psychological Consequences of Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can have a significant impact on an individual’s psychological well-being. The trauma and stress of a fall accident can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In some cases, the psychological consequences of a fall accident can be more severe than the physical injuries.

Symptoms of psychological consequences of fall accidents may include:

• Anxiety: Anxiety is a common psychological consequence of slip and fall accidents. Individuals may experience fear of re-injury or a constant state of worry about financial burdens and recovery outcomes.
• Depression: Depression is another common psychological consequence of slip and fall accidents. Individuals may experience feelings of hopelessness, social withdrawal, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.
• PTSD: PTSD is a severe psychological consequence of slip and fall accidents. Individuals may experience symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance of situations that remind them of the accident.

It is essential to seek medical attention immediately after a slip and fall accident, not only for physical injuries but also for psychological consequences. A mental health professional can help individuals cope with the trauma and stress of a fall accident and develop effective coping mechanisms.

Financial Consequences of Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can have significant financial consequences, including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. The financial burden of a slip and fall accident can be overwhelming, especially if the individual is unable to work due to their injuries.

Medical expenses can include:

• Emergency room visits
• Hospitalization
• Surgeries
• Medications
• Physical therapy

Lost wages can include:

• Time off work due to injuries
• Reduced earning capacity
• Loss of benefits

Property damage can include:

• Damage to personal property
• Damage to vehicles

It is essential to seek the help of a personal injury lawyer to navigate the complex process of filing a personal injury claim. A personal injury lawyer can help individuals recover compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.

Recovering Fair Compensation for a Long-Term Slip and Fall Injury

A slip and fall accident could change the course of your life. A fall that causes serious injuries, such as to the brain or spine, could inflict lasting symptoms. You may have to quit your job, for example, or pay for long-term medical care because of a permanent disability. A broken bone could also put you in a cast or make you immobile for months at a time, potentially causing related injuries and damages.

If you or someone you love has long-term injuries from a slip and fall accident in Omaha, do not accept less money from an insurance company than you require. Work with an Omaha personal injury attorney for assistance pursuing maximum compensation for your past and future damages. A lawyer can make sure you do not settle for a low-ball offer that does not fully cover your life-changing injuries. Your lawyer can negotiate a better result on your behalf while you concentrate on healing.

Recovering Fair Compensation After a Slip and Fall – Knowles Law Firm

If a slip and fall left you with serious injuries, you deserve to be compensated for your medical bills, lost wages, and long-term suffering. At Knowles Law Firm, we understand the devastating impact fall accidents can have, especially for seniors and those with pre-existing conditions. We have successfully recovered multi-million dollar settlements for injury victims in Nebraska and are prepared to fight for what you deserve.

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but we don’t let them undervalue your case. We can handle negotiations and legal complexities while you focus on recovery. Call (402) 431-9000 or fill out our contact form to get the representation you need.