The Most Serious Injuries Suffered by Slip and Fall Victims

Slips and falls are the second most common types of accidents, coming just after automobile accidents on the scale of frequency. They can inflict serious injuries, with consequences ranging from chronic pain to life-altering disabilities. Understanding the types and degrees of injuries associated with these accidents is important to obtaining the proper compensation..

Falls can inflict fractures or broken bones in various parts of the body. The most common fracture sites are the wrists, forearms, hips and ankles. Depending on the severity and location of the break, healing times can vary significantly, ranging from weeks to months, and may involve immobilization with casts and crutches or walkers.

Among all fall-related fractures, hip fractures are particularly serious, especially for older adults. The delicate nature of the hip joint makes it susceptible to fractures even from low-impact falls. These fractures can lead to significant complications, including:

• Loss of mobility — Hip fractures often necessitate surgery and extensive rehabilitation, leaving individuals dependent on assistive devices like walkers or wheelchairs for an extended period. This loss of mobility can significantly impact their working ability and quality of life.
• Increased risk of blood clots — Post-surgical immobility increases the risk of developing blood clots in the legs, which can travel to the lungs and become life-threatening.
• Increased risk of pneumonia — The limitations in movement associated with hip fractures can make it difficult for individuals to take deep breaths, which can lead to pneumonia.
• Increased mortality rate — Studies have shown that individuals who sustain hip fractures have a significantly higher mortality rate in the following year compared to those without fractures.

Other injuries often sustained in slip and fall incidents are trauma to soft tissues like muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Sprains, occurring when ligaments stretch or tear, and strains, resulting from muscle or tendon tears, are prevalent. These injuries often affect the ankles, wrists, knees and lower back, causing pain, swelling and limited mobility. They can significantly impact daily activities and require physical therapy for proper healing.

While less frequent than other injuries, falls can also cause head injuries, ranging from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Concussions, involving temporary disruption of brain function, can cause headaches, dizziness, and confusion. TBIs can lead to long-term impairments in cognitive function, memory, and motor skills.

After a slip and fall accident, you should seek immediate medical attention regardless of the perceived severity of the injury. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve recovery outcomes and may lessen the risk of complications, especially for older adults. You should also seek counsel from a skilled Massachusetts slip and fall attorney, who can take the proper steps to protect your legal rights.

At Feinberg & Alban PC, our attorneys have for more than 70 years helped victims of slip and fall accidents throughout Greater Boston get the optimal compensation for their injuries. Call us at 617-232-5950 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation.