When we think of the most serious injuries, we often think of them as being caused by vehicle accidents or violent acts. Most people are surprised to learn that some of the most severe injuries occur because of a fall, trip or slip.
Falls can cause major injuries and, in some cases, they can even be fatal. The Connecticut slip and fall attorneys at Ronald M. Scherban, P.C. have represented many clients who have suffered in these types of accidents, and we have seen just how bad their injuries can be. Victims face medical bills, loss of income, disability and intense pain and suffering because of slip and fall accidents.
Slip and Fall Injuries in Connecticut
- Falls are the fourth leading cause of injury-related fatalities in Connecticut.
- Falls cause 12 percent of all injury-related deaths in Connecticut.
- More than 85 percent of fall-related deaths occur among those aged 60 and older.
- When conditions of the fall were listed, steps and stairs were involved in 13 percent of falls in Connecticut.
Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
- Loose or broken flooring
- Broken steps
- Slick or wet surfaces
- Snow and ice
- Furniture accidents (falls from chairs or beds)
- Wheelchair accidents
- Cluttered walkways
- Poorly lit areas
- Construction site accidents (scaffolding, ladder or building-related falls).
Injuries Caused By Falls
Many falls result in only minor injuries. However, falls can also cause a number of severe injuries. Some of the most common injuries suffered by slip and fall victims include the following:
- Broken bones (hips, ankles, wrists, etc.)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Organ damage
Who Is At Fault in Slip and Fall Accidents?
So many falls are preventable, occurring mostly due to the negligence of another party. For example, if a person fails to properly maintain their property and another person is injured while on that property, the property owner can be found negligent. Negligent property owners can be held accountable for the injuries suffered by the victim. Employers or business owners can also be liable if hazardous workplace conditions caused a worker to slip and fall on the job.
The Costs to Victims
Victims in slip and fall accidents suffer terrible pain and suffering from their injuries. They also get hit with medical bills, ongoing medical treatment, loss of income, loss of work capacity due to their injuries, and the possibility of permanent disability. In the most severe cases, a victim can lose their life from a fall. In the event of the victim’s death, surviving family members can pursue legal action to obtain compensation for funeral bills, burial costs and loss of income stemming from the passing of the loved one.
