You are out shopping or running errands and you suffer a slip and fall accident. You may feel embarrassed as other shoppers or store employees gather around, asking whether you are okay. In this situation, your first impulse may be to brush off the incident, particularly if you do not appear to have suffered any major injuries. Unfortunately, it is just these types of accidents that can end up causing you significant problems further down the road. Seemingly ‘minor’ personal injuries due to slips and falls are not something to ignore. For example, “tweaking” your shoulder can lead to pain and less range of motion in future which can impact your lifestyle and require expensive surgery. The same can be said for many parts of the body. To avoid potential complications and protect your rights in a claim, it is important to take these types of accidents seriously.
Personal Injuries Caused By Slips, Trips, and Falls
Any time there is a bump, blow, or jolt to the body, there is the potential for serious harm. The following are conditions that can occur as the result of even otherwise minor accidents. While they may not appear serious at the time, they can have lasting implications for your health:
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are among the most common type of personal injury. The often involve sprains, strains, and tears of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, or other soft tissues throughout the body. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) advises that if not treated properly, these injuries can cause ongoing issues, such as chronic pain and stiffness, that eventually result in permanent disabilities.
Back and Neck Injuries
MedlinePlus advises that your back is comprised of a series of bones and other tissues, which extends from the neck all the way down to the base of your spine. Even a minor slip or fall could result in injuries such as fractured vertebrae and slipped or herniated disks, which can leave you unable to work or even do simple chores around your house, while requiring extensive and ongoing treatments.
Head Injuries
Some of the most subtle yet potentially dangerous types of personal injuries, head injuries can occur anytime there is a bump or sudden jolt to the head. Healthline advises seeking medical care immediately anytime a head injury is suspected, as symptoms are often subtle and may take days or weeks to appear. Common types of head injuries include concussions and skull fractures, which can lead to permanent physical and cognitive impairments.
Obtaining Compensation for Accidental Slip and Fall Injuries
Slips, trips, and falls are among the leading causes of personal injuries. In many cases, these so-called ‘accidents’ could have been avoided had property owners, store managers, and other employees either warned customers or taking better care in maintaining their property. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it is important to make sure an accident report is filed and to seek medical attention immediately from your doctor or other health care provider.
Once you have reported the accident and received medical treatment, contact the Johnston Law Firm regarding your rights in filing a claim. Our Portland personal attorneys can help ensure you get the total amount of compensation you are entitled to, which can help cover any current and future costs you incur. Call or contact us online today and request a free case consultation.