People don’t always give slip-and-falls the respect that they deserve. To many people, a same-level fall seems more like a joke than a serious safety concern. However, slip-and-falls can put people in the hospital and cause permanent injuries in some cases. Other times, even if people recover from their injuries, they might accumulate thousands of dollars in medical expenses and lost wages.
There are certain factors that increase the likelihood of a poor outcome after a slip-and-fall incident. What might contribute to overall risk?
Personal characteristics
In many cases, the unique characteristics of the person who fell contribute to the severity of the incident and their injuries. Specifically, compromised immune function and advanced age can both increase the risk of serious injuries.
Older adults who fall are far more likely to sustain fractures than younger adults or children. Those with compromised immune function or bleeding disorders can sustain major injuries in what could be minor incidents for others.
The location of the fall
A slip-and-fall that occurs in close proximity to shelving, refrigeration units or a staircase could have far worse consequences than a slip-and-fall in a wide open space. In some cases, people might strike nearby objects when they fall. Other times, what starts with a slip-and-fall can lead to a more serious incident if a person tumbles down the stairs.
Anyone can experience an unexpected slip-and-fall, but some people are at increased risk of worse injuries. Seeking compensation for medical expenses and lost wages can be a necessary move for those seriously injured in a slip-and-fall at a business.