Unless a slip-and-fall occurs on stairs, it is typically a same-level fall. The person who loses their traction when they slip does not fall a significant distance. People may underestimate the risks inherent in a slip-and-fall scenario because of the lack of elevation involved.
Obviously, a fall from a significant height could lead to major injuries for the person who falls. However, people don’t have to fall off of a roof to end up seriously injured. Same-level falls, including slip-and-fall incidents at stores, can leave people with devastating injuries.
Falls can break bones
Frequently, the main concern in a slip-and-fall scenario is the potential for a fracture. Particularly when the person who falls is in their 40s, 50s or beyond, they are at significant risk of breaking a bone. Broken bones are usually the result of people flailing to catch themselves or striking something when they fall. A broken bone can leave a professional out of work for eight weeks or longer. Fractures can also cause significant medical expenses, especially if the fracture is severe enough to require surgery to treat.
Falls can cause brain injuries
People could also be at risk of hitting their heads when they fall. They could then develop traumatic brain injuries because the trauma causes inflammation or bleeding inside the skull. The long-term consequences of the injury could include significant medical expenses and a long-term reduction in earning potential.
If negligent facility maintenance led to a slip-and-fall injury, the injured person may have grounds to request compensation from the property owner or business. Reporting a slip and fall after it happens, seeking medical attention and holding a company accountable are all potentially smart decisions for those dealing with the aftermath of a same-level fall that occurs on company property as a result.