Many people don’t realize how dangerous a slip and fall can be. A fall can result in serious injuries, like broken bones or traumatic brain injury.
And those injuries can have a lasting impact on your life. That’s why it’s important to know what to do if you or someone you love does suffer a fall.
A serious concern for the older population
Falls can cause serious injuries, such as broken bones, concussions, or head injuries. In some cases, these injuries may even be life-threatening. Older adults have a higher risk of falling due to reduced vision and mobility and changes in the nervous system. The impact of any injury resulting from a fall can be more severe in older adults who may have pre-existing medical conditions or frailty.
Furthermore, when an older adult receives a hip fracture, they have an increased risk of dying within the year. And they rarely recover to their previous state and suffer impaired mobility and loss of independence.
To reduce the risk of falls, older adults should practice methods of maximizing balance and stability, such as exercising regularly, consulting a doctor regarding medications that could increase the risk of falling, and ensuring their environment is safe with no visible slip or trip hazards. With some preventative care, older adults can enjoy a safe life independently.
However, while they can control their home environment, it’s not always possible to control what happens when they are in public, at a store or restaurant. It is the responsibility of the business owner to ensure their premises are safe for everyone – and that doesn’t always happen.
If you or someone you know has experienced a slip and fall in a store or parking lot, it is essential to remember that you are not alone in the process of seeking justice. Depending on the circumstances, you could potentially sue the establishment and receive compensation for physical harm inflicted as well as mental damages due to trauma, pain, or suffering.