Causes for Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip and fall injuries are very common and while they tend to be most devastating in outcome for the elderly, all fatalities associated with falls are equal among the genders. Women do tend to be more prone to fall accidents according to the National Floor Safety Insitute (NFSI).
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job-related fatalities were estimated to be about 5{88e349d5decac9e367401df59c8a5daea38c8be20f3485723a835d333268b5d9} due to fall accidents for women while men’s fatal falls accounted for 11{88e349d5decac9e367401df59c8a5daea38c8be20f3485723a835d333268b5d9}. Falls are can often result in serious injuries that require emergency room hospitalization. There are over 8 million emergency room visits as a result of falls which accounts for the leading cause of all visits.
Some of the most common factors that cause slip and falls include the following.
Uneven Surfaces
Wet, broken, or uneven floors and surfaces cause a vast amount of accidents. According to the NFSI, 55{88e349d5decac9e367401df59c8a5daea38c8be20f3485723a835d333268b5d9} of all slip and fall accidents are due to surfaces that are not safe but very hazardous to cross. Hazards on floors include:
- Clutter on floors
- Defective sidewalks
- Loose floorboards
- Unsafe stairways
- Torn or uneven carpets
- Slick and wet floors
Weather
Weather conditions can lead to slip and falls. Inclement conditions such as ice, rain, or snow can cause slick surfaces that make walking dangerous for anyone and easily slipped upon. When the weather causes the dirt to be wet and muddy, this can also be a means for slips and falls on walking surfaces.
Improper Training and Procedures
The high rate of falls that occur in the workplace can be directly linked to the improper training of employees with regards to how to operate and on surfaces that may be narrow or slick. If the appropriate training on how to recognize and navigate hazards is not implemented, the outcomes could be serious for businesses that may encounter many workplace incidents. If the company has failed to keep employees safe through training they may be liable for damages the employees face.
Nursing Home Neglect
As we age, we lose coordination, balance, and clear vision. This can cause significant risks while waling in any location. The need for assistive devices and gear is required for many older adults and if there are any types of hazards with regards to the upkeep of nursing home facilities, for instance, this poses a serious threat to the elderly. When an elderly person suffers a slip an fall, the outcome is often much more severe than that which would happen in younger individuals.
Bone breakages or fractures, and long-term damages that may lead to permanent disability or even death can result. The need for an experienced Las Vegas slip and fall attorney to fight for these victims is key to helping them see their full legal justice.
Slip and Fall Attorneys in Nevada
When you have suffered from a slip and fall accident it is worthwhile to call a knowledgeable slip and fall attorney in Nevada to determine if you have a viable case for a personal injury claim. Call the experienced Nevada serious injury lawyers at the Cottle Firm today at 702-722-6111. We will discuss your situation, provide you guidance and answers about your specific circumstances. The sooner we can get started on your case, the sooner you can see compensation for your damages.
