Common Causes of Falls and Tips for Fall Prevention

SLIP AND FALL INJURIES IN NEW YORK

New Yorkers Are Always on the MoveIn a city where parking spots are scarce, public transportation is crowded and everything you need is just a few blocks away, the best way to get to your destination is often your own two feet. It was no surprise to New Yorkers when Fitbit said that people in New York take more steps every day than people in other states. Walking is great exercise. It’s good for your pocketbook. Yet, depending on the conditions of the surface you walk on, it can also lead to serious injuries.

Slipping and Falling - No Laughing MatterOne step on a slippery, unstable or uneven surface can have lasting, detrimental consequences to your health. Though people don’t always realize just how serious a fall can be, anyone who has suffered injuries from a fall knows that they can cause many painful, long-term and expensive injuries. Let’s look at just how serious falls really are…

Statistics on Fall-Related InjuriesAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Around 20% of falls cause serious injuries. Nearly three million older adults are treated in

emergency rooms due to slip and fall injuries every year.

Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries. Falls cause over 95% of hip fractures.

Common Injuries Resulting from Falls

Broken bones

(such as fractured

hips, ankles or wrists

)

Traumatic brain

injuries

Spinal cord injuries

Internal injuries or

organ damage

Death

Why We Fall? Slippery surfaces (often due to ice,

snow, water or cleaning products) Uneven surfaces Broken or slick steps Broken or loose flooring Broken handrails or lack of

handrails on steps Cluttered floors Lack of proper lighting

Other Ways That Falls Can Impact Our Lives A fall can be costly, especially if injuries result in

medical treatment and ongoing care. Falls can cause us to miss work, impacting our

income and ability to pay for medical bills. Falls can reduce our ability to work, perform routine

tasks or enjoy the activities we used to enjoy. Falls can cause serious anxiety, causing a fear of

falling again and restricting our activities.

Where Falls Happen A person can slip, trip and fall in nearly

any environment. Falls can occur: In the workplace In hospitals or nursing homes In our own homes In the homes of others In businesses, like retail stores or

grocery stores Outside on sidewalks or stairs Around public transportation, such

subways or trains

People at Higher Risk for Falls Older adults People with weak legs or hips People taking medications such

as antidepressants or sedatives People with Vitamin D

deficiencies People with poor eyesight Someone who has already

suffered a serious fall

Fall Prevention Tips Make sure your home or workplace is free of clutter,

broken flooring, slick surfaces and dim light. Install handrails on stairs, in bathrooms and any other

location where one could be prone to falling. If you take medications causing dizziness, make sure you

have access to assistance if you should fall. Consult a doctor to determine your fall risk. Check your vision regularly. Do exercises that increase balance.

What if Your Fall Was Not Your Fault?Many falls occur on poorly maintained properties, often due to the negligence of a property owner. When someone suffers a serious injury because of someone else’s negligence, they can file a premises liability claim to receive compensation for the damages they have suffered. If a fall was suffered in the workplace, a workers’ compensation claim might help alleviate the expenses suffered by a worker. If the fall occurs in a medical setting, a negligent healthcare professional might be at fault through medical malpractice.

As you can see, there are many different causes for slips and falls. If your injury was caused a negligent property owner, employer or healthcare provider, the New York slip and fall attorneys at Kaplan Lawyers PC can help. We represented several clients who have suffered injuries due to the negligence of others, and we know how to help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.

Kaplan Lawyers PC Can Help