Slip and fall injuries are one of the most common forms of personal injury, and these types of accidents can happen anywhere. A wet floor, uneven sidewalk, poorly lit stairs, or a loose piece of carpeting can cause you to lose your balance, and in a split second you can be dealing with a serious and potentially debilitating condition resulting in heavy medical expenses, lost wages, and even permanent disability. Slip and fall injuries require immediate medical care, and even if your injuries seem slight, they could develop into long term, chronic conditions.
Types of Slips & Falls
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), falls are one of the leading causes of accidental injuries, accounting for roughly 8.9 hospital visits in the United States each year. Common locations for fall include cluttered or uneven walkways, ramps, entrances and exits, stairwells, high-traffic areas, and floors that are prone to wetness or spills, such as in grocery stores or restaurants. Injuries caused by falls are not only painful, but they can be potentially deadly. The NSC reports that falls are also the second leading cause of death in homes and communities. Fall injuries are nothing to take lightly, and common types of fall injuries include the following:
Muscle & Tendon Strains, Sprains & Tears
According to the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), muscle and tendon strains, sprains, and tears are soft tissue injuries that can be caused by any sudden bump or blow to the body. These injuries vary in severity, from minor injuries requiring only rest and recuperation time to major, potentially debilitating conditions that may require surgery and could leave sufferers with long term disabilities.
Bone Fractures
While broken bones may seem like a common form of injury, there are varying degrees of fractures, the most serious of which can present major, long term problems. According to the AAOS, the severity of the bone fracture depends on both the location and the type of fracture that occurred. Your injury may require a cast or being placed in traction, or you may need surgery to install metal plates or pins in order to keep the bone stable and to help it heal properly.
Back & Neck Injuries
According to the National Institutes of Health, back and neck injuries can be a potentially disabling form of injury, resulting in limited mobility and chronic pain. Your injury may involve sprained or torn muscles, herniated disks, or a fractured vertebra, any of which can result in lengthy recuperation times and the need for ongoing therapy. Treatment options may involve surgery and the need for a back or neck brace to avoid re-injury.
Head Injuries
A head injury can occur any time there is a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, and they are one of the most common and severe types of injury. According to the NIH, a traumatic brain injury can temporarily or permanently affect nearly every aspect of your life. Your emotional and cognitive functioning may be impaired, resulting in angry outbursts, mood swings, and impairments to memory and judgement. Your motor skills may also be impaired, impacting your ability to walk as well as body functions such as breathing and heart rate. Treatment for brain injuries takes time, and typically requires physical and occupational therapy and the need for social support in dealing with your injuries.
Contact a Portland Slip & Fall Lawyer Today
If you or someone you know has suffered a slip or fall injury, contact an experienced injury attorney immediately. At the Johnston Law Firm, we can provide the aggressive legal representation needed to assist you in getting the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact our Portland personal injury attorneys today for a free review of your case.