Slip & Fall Accidents.
Incidents related to slips and falls happen every day in workplaces all across Texas. While some only lead to minor bruises and scratches, others can result in severe injuries, and in certain cases, even fatalities. In 2023, falls, slips, and trips were the second most common cause of work-related deaths in the United States, with 885 fatalities recorded that year. Furthermore, they are the third most frequent cause of injuries that require employees to take time off from work.
Slip and Fall Accidents Can Lead to Serious Injuries
Falls can lead to physical injuries like fractures, sprains, and dislocations. If a worker hits their head, they might experience a head injury, which could be a concussion or a traumatic brain injury. Besides the immediate injury, falls can result in ongoing pain or problems with movement. This can make it hard to go back to work or to enjoy life the way they did before the accident. There are also health risks that might not be seen right away, like internal bleeding or damage to organs. When falls lead to movement problems, additional injuries can happen from trying to compensate for the original injury.
There are also extra issues that extend beyond just physical injuries. Falling and injuring yourself can be a really traumatic event, which might lead to anxiety or a fear of falling again. In serious situations, it can even result in post-traumatic stress disorder. When a lengthy recovery means taking a lot of time off work or dealing with chronic pain, people might end up feeling depressed. There can also be financial and career impacts from being away from work for a long time, or if the injury stops someone from going back to the same job.
Falls can cause physical injuries such as fractures, sprains, and dislocations. If a worker strikes their head, they may suffer a head injury, which could be a concussion or a traumatic brain injury. In addition to the immediate injury, falls can lead to persistent pain or difficulties with movement. This can make it challenging to return to work or to enjoy life as they did prior to the accident. There are also health risks that may not be immediately apparent, such as internal bleeding or organ damage. When falls result in movement issues, further injuries can occur as individuals try to adjust for the initial injury.
Where These Types of Accidents Often Occur
When individuals think about slip and fall accidents, they often envision construction workers and other professionals working at high elevations. While those workers do have a higher risk of falling, employees across all industries are also vulnerable. In fact, the CDC states that most workplace injuries from slips and falls happen on the same level, with the highest number of nonfatal fall injuries occurring in the education and health services, along with the healthcare and social assistance fields.
Accidents involving slips and falls in the workplace can take place in any location, but the reasons behind them are often quite similar no matter where they happen.
- Wet or slippery floors can be dangerous.
- Uneven floors or loose carpets pose a risk.
- Insufficient lighting can lead to accidents.
- Not having the right safety gear is a problem.
- Hazards related to weather can create unsafe conditions.
Accidents That Happen At Work
When people consider slip and fall accidents, they usually picture construction workers and other professionals who operate at elevated heights. Although those workers do face a greater chance of falling, employees in every sector are also at risk. In fact, the CDC reports that the majority of workplace injuries caused by slips and falls occur on the same level, with the largest number of nonfatal fall injuries taking place in the educational and health services, as well as the healthcare and social assistance sectors.
If you’ve been in a slip and fall accident, contact the Law Office of Brian Brunson, PLLC. Our knowledgeable team will help assess your case and determine how to best help you.
