When considering different types of incidents that cause serious injuries, slip-and-fall accidents may be low down on your list. It may surprise you, but slip-and-fall accidents are one of the leading causes of accidental death and injury in the U.S. In fact, this type of accident comes second only to road traffic accidents.
What makes falls so dangerous is that basically anyone can be exposed. Therefore, no matter where you are or what you’re doing, the potential of falling is always there. Understanding the severity of the situation could assist with prevention. Outlined below are some of the serious injuries that can occur through slip-and-fall accidents.
Back injuries
Not only can back injuries result in chronic pain and suffering, but they can also be fatal at times. Back injuries associated with falling frequently include herniated discs, which can take an extended period to recover. In more serious cases, damage to the spinal cord may be sustained. Damage to the spine has the potential to cause both temporary and permanent paralysis, as well as fatality under certain conditions.
Traumatic brain injuries
Falling over and hitting your head is no laughing matter. In fact, any blow to the head should be considered an emergency that requires immediate medical attention. In severe cases, a bang on the head after falling can result in skull fractures and hemorrhages. Such afflictions have the ability to change a person’s life for good. Catastrophic injuries to the head could cause a person to lose both physical and neurological functions, meaning that they require lifelong care and treatment.
Recognizing slip-and-fall accidents as a serious issue is a key to keeping people safe. If you have been injured in Georgia, you should familiarize yourself with the legal options open to you.