Slip and fall accidents are among the most common types of personal injury claims in Augusta and throughout the United States. They account for 1 million visits to the emergency room every year (according to the NFSI).
While some slips and falls may result in minor bruises or scrapes, others can lead to severe injuries that have lasting impacts on your health and finances. When a slip and fall injury occurs due to someone else’s negligence, it may be time to consider legal action to recover compensation for your damages.
In this article, we’ll explore five common slip and fall injuries and discuss when it’s appropriate to hire a slip and falls attorney in Augusta to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
1. Broken Bones and Fractures
The sudden impact of falling onto a hard surface can lead to fractures in the wrists, arms, hips, ankles, and even the spine. For older adults, especially those with osteoporosis, a simple fall can result in severe fractures that require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
When to Hire a Slip and Fall Attorney
If you’ve suffered a broken bone in a slip-and-fall accident, it’s essential to consider whether someone else’s negligence contributed to the incident. A slip and fall attorney in Augusta can investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury and determine if you have a valid compensation claim.
2. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most serious and life-altering consequences of slip and fall accidents. When someone falls and strikes their head, they may suffer a concussion, skull fracture, or other forms of brain trauma.
Even seemingly minor head injuries can have long-term effects, such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, and physical impairments. TBIs can range in severity from mild concussions to severe brain damage. In some cases, the full extent of a TBI may not be immediately apparent, and symptoms can develop over time.
When to Hire a Slip and Fall Attorney
If you or a loved one has sustained a head injury in a slip and fall accident, it’s critical to seek immediate medical attention and consult with a slip and fall attorney. TBIs can lead to long-term disability and require ongoing medical care, which can be costly. A skilled attorney can help you build a strong case by gathering evidence, consulting with medical experts, and negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, lost income, and future medical expenses.
3. Back and Spinal Cord Injuries
Falls can cause significant trauma to the back and spinal cord, leading to injuries such as:
- Herniated discs
- Fractured vertebrae
- Even spinal cord damage that results in paralysis
These types of injuries can severely limit a person’s mobility and may require surgery, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation.
Spinal cord injuries are particularly devastating because they can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the damage. Even less severe back injuries can cause chronic pain and discomfort, affecting a person’s ability to work and enjoy everyday activities.
When to Hire a Slip and Fall Attorney
Spinal cord injuries and other back injuries often involve substantial medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing treatment. If your injury was caused by unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. A slip and fall attorney in Augusta can evaluate the circumstances of your accident, identify responsible parties, and pursue a claim to cover your medical costs, rehabilitation, and other related expenses.
4. Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and torn ligaments, are common in slip and fall accidents. These injuries typically occur when a person tries to break their fall by extending their arms or twisting their body in an attempt to regain balance. While soft tissue injuries may not be as visibly apparent as broken bones or cuts, they can be extremely painful and debilitating.
Common soft tissue injuries include:
- Sprained ankles or wrists
- Torn ligaments
- Whiplash
Soft tissue injuries can take weeks or even months to heal, and they may require physical therapy to restore full mobility.
When to Hire a Slip and Fall Attorney
While soft tissue injuries may seem less severe than other types of injuries, they can still result in significant medical costs, lost wages, and ongoing pain. If your injury was caused by hazardous conditions, such as slippery floors, loose carpeting, or debris, you may have grounds to file a claim.
A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive compensation for your medical treatment, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.
5. Cuts, Bruises, and Lacerations
Although cuts and bruises may not be as life-threatening as other injuries, they can still cause significant pain and discomfort. Slip and fall accidents can result in deep lacerations if the person falls onto a sharp object or surface. In some cases, cuts may require stitches or surgery to repair, and they can leave lasting scars.
Bruises, on the other hand, can be painful and may indicate underlying tissue damage or more serious injuries that require further medical attention. While most bruises heal on their own, severe falls can result in hematomas, which may need to be drained or treated by a medical professional.
When to Hire a Slip and Fall Attorney
For cuts, lacerations, or severe bruising resulting from a slip and fall accident, it’s worth consulting with a slip and fall attorney if your injury was caused by hazardous conditions on someone’s property. Even seemingly minor injuries can result in medical bills, time off work, and ongoing discomfort. An attorney can assess whether you have a valid claim and help you recover compensation.
Slip and Falls Attorney in Augusta – Ready to Get Fair Compensation?
There’s no need to suffer in silence when you get slip and fall injuries. Hire a good slip and falls attorney in Augusta who can help you fight the good fight.
Blake & Associates Law Firm will give you the compassion and courage you need while we seek the compensation you deserve in the case of slip and fall accidents. Schedule a consultation with our team today.