What Happens To Your Body When You Slip And Fall
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A slip and fall accident can impact your body in many ways. The damage from a slip and fall can vary by person, health status, the nature of the fall, and more. Lets look at what might be happening in your body during and after a slip and fall.
Be Careful With The Snowblower: What To Do If You Injure Your Hand
Not only does winter bring its share of ice and snow, but it also results in a large uptick in hand and wrist injuries due to slips, falls and snowblower accidents.
Wrist fractures are extremely common in the winter months, says James Willcockson, MD, a Nebraska Medicine plastic surgeon specializing in hand and wrist injuries. In fact, studies show it is the most common fracture in adults anywhere in the body.
Heavy, wet snowfalls also tend to lead to snowblower injuries to the fingers and hands. What typically happens, explains Dr. Willcockson, is that the heavy snow will clog up the blades. People may then use their hands to unclog the blades, forgetting that the snowblower is still on. As soon as the blades are unclogged, the blades start spinning again, resulting in lacerations, fractures and even loss of fingertips or fingers.
To prevent snowblower injuries, always turn off the snowblower and unlock the clutch before attempting to unclog snow from the blades, advises Dr. Willcockson. Many blowers now come with a small shovel to unclog the blades. If not available, use a stick or broom handle. But still, remember to turn the blower off first. You can also spray the blades and chute with a lubricant to help prevent clogging.
What Does A Slip And Fall Accident Mean
Slip and fall is a general term, typically used by lawyers, to describe an accident where someone is injured as a result of slipping, tripping or falling on someone else’s property. Common examples of slip and fall include:
- Slipping on a wet floor in the lobby of a building
- Tripping over a parking wheel stop in parking lot
- Falling in a pothole in a parking garage
- Losing balance because of an accumulation of loose gravel
- Tripping and falling as a result of a cracked and raised sidewalk due tree root growth
- Sliding on algae growing at the entrance of a building
- Missing a step on a stairway because of improper construction of treads and risers
- Losing your grip because of a loose or broken handrail
- Slipping and falling due to a spilled drink
- Misstep because of poor lighting or no lighting
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The Work Injury Costs Per Worker In 2020 Accounted For $1100 Per Employee
Even one person working for a small business can cost that company $1,100 in training, hiring, and other monetary and non-monetary expenses.
The total costs of work injuries in 2020 came to $163.9 billion, which is a bit lower than the costs in 2019.
While we are focusing on the economic costs, the real cost to the country, individuals, and employers related to workplace injuries, illnesses, and deaths are far greater than what workers compensation can cover alone.
Types Of Injuries And Symptoms Suffered In Slip And Falls
If you slip and fall, you can injure any one of several parts of your body. And some of these injuries will not be detectable immediately. What seems like a minor sprain or a sore leg can be a torn ligament or even a fracture. After you suffer a slip and fall, its critical you seek medical attention immediately.Some of the more common kinds of injuries suffered in slips and falls include:
1. Bruises and Cuts
The bruises and cuts you suffered when you slip and fall can appear severe but may be less serious than other injuries listed below. Its not unusual to suffer bruises on your arms, legs, head or hips. However, these bruises arent always minor. Frequently, bruising and cuts hide more serious injuries below the skin. Its always worth getting them checked out. Its also a good idea to take pictures of your injuries. This documentation will help enormously if you decide to sue.
2. Stretched Tendons, Torn Ligaments Or Pulled Muscles
Often when we slip and fall, our muscles tense to protect us. We may twist our bodies or stretch out our hands to catch ourselves. Unfortunately, our attempts to protect ourselves may actually end up causing some damages. Twisting may lead to pulled muscles, torn ligaments or stretched tendons. The same is true when we reach out our hands to catch ourselves.
3. Sprained or Broken Wrists or Ankles
4. Broken Arms or Legs
5. Fractured Collarbones
6. Dislocated Shoulder
7. Damaged Knees
8. Bruised or Fractured Tailbone
9. Hip Fractures
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Osha Guidelines On Slips Trips And Falls
OSHA doesnt have a set regulation about slips, trips, and falls, specifically. Instead, the bulk of the guidelines for this issue are contained in 29 CFR 1910 Subpart DWalking-Working Surfaces. This section of the Code of Federal Regulation covers both same-level falls and elevated falls, though, for this article, we will focus on same-level falls.
This important guidance went through a major overhaul in 2017 to better protect workers from hazards by adding important inspection requirements, clarifying standards, and aligning the guidance from 29 CFR 1910 General Industry with 29 CFR 1926 Construction as much as possible.
Another regulation that applies to slips, trips, and falls is 29 CFR 1910.36 and 37 Means of Egress which covers exit route safety. This standard outlines guardrail requirements, the importance of level walkways, and ice removal from exits to prevent slips.
Slip Trip And Fall Hazards Most Common Cause Of Maritime Injuries
The maritime industry requires workers to perform tasks in dynamic environments. Workers in shipyards, on vessels or near docks face unique hazards that can cause serious injuries or death if accidents occur. That is why it is so important to recognize risks and take measures to prevent accidents.
One of the most common causes of maritime injuries is slip, trip and fall accidents. These accidents occur frequently due to the nature of maritime work and quickly-changing work conditions. Slips, trips and falls can happen in any part of the maritime industry, including construction, scrapping, repair, commercial fishing, cruise lines, shipyards and docks.
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E How To Establish A Slip And Fall Claim
Establishing a claim after a slip and fall injury must be done carefully. Your goal is to earn compensation for every damage you sustained from the fall, including :
- Punitive damages
- Reduced quality of life
Your ability to earn compensation boils down to two factors: the evidence you have and the personal injury attorney you hire.
To reiterate, youll need to document as much of the accident as possible. What were the circumstances that led to your fall? Taking pictures of the area and collecting contact information of witnesses will help greatly in establishing your claim.
The next step is hiring a personal injury lawyer who specializes in slip and fall accidents. Now, many victims of slips and falls avoid hiring quality legal assistance because they believe they cannot afford it.
The truth is ANYONE can afford to hire a good personal injury lawyer.
Heres why: these attorneys work on a contingency fee agreement. This means they will not ask for any out-of-pocket fees upfront. They collect a percentage of slip and fall settlements AFTER they win the case. Moreover, they will not take a case unless they think they can win.
Your attorney will request documentation to begin the claim. This generally includes:
- Description of the slip and fall accident/pictures
- Witness contact information for statements
- Any medical bills and records for treatment following the accident
Keep in mind, the more information you can provide your attorney, the stronger your case will be.
How Do You Even Determine If The Owner Of The Premises Has The Right Insurance To Cover Your Injuries And Medical Costs
Virtually all businesses have insurance coverage for injuries through their business liability insurance coverage. These policies can cover the medical bills and bodily injury in situations where someone falls on a property. The limits of coverage may vary, however, and may not cover all your costs if you have suffered a serious injury. In addition, insurers generally try to limit liability. They may claim you were not careful, for example, or may work to dismiss your claim.
A good way to determine whether insurance will cover the cost of your injuries and to build a strong case is by speaking with a trip and fall injury lawyer. An attorney can speak with insurers on your behalf, can evaluate your injuries, and can pursue recovery so you can focus on medical treatment and on your life after your injury. When you work with an experienced attorney, insurance companies may take the claim more seriously and may be less able to dismiss a legitimate claim.
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Slip And Fall Settlements 2020
In 2020 a person had injuries on the spine and shoulder, the court awarded $1.9 million. A woman got $572 988 from the jury as she fell on a non-defined substance. In this case, the owner is the prime suspect of this event. An older woman got injured and diagnosed with a subdural hematoma. Her head hurt during the fall, which comes under slip and fall compensation amounts. The old lady finds it difficult to process thoughts and words during communication. She obtained $7million from the judiciary.
Experienced Slip And Fall Accident Lawyer Helping People In Porter Tx
Slip and fall accidents can result in serious bodily injury requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitative services. Victims of slip and fall accidents are often left with mounting medical bills and emotional, mental and physical scars that can last a lifetime.
The Porter, TX slip and fall lawyers at Hernandez Sunosky, LLP have decades of experience handling slip and fall accidents. We know how serious a slip and fall accident can be, which is why we work hard to hold negligent property owners responsible and maximize your monetary recovery to pay medical bills, replace lost income and compensate for your pain and suffering.
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, call the top-rated lawyers at Hernandez Sunosky, LLP at 713.981.4100 for a free consultation. We serve the Porter, TX area.
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Whats The Process Like For Submitting An Insurance Claim For A Slip Or Fall
You can file an insurance claim by alerting the leaseholder or property owner of where the fall took place of your injury. Try to get a copy of the incident report, photos of the area where the accident took place, and the contact information of any witnesses.
You may also want to speak with a trip and fall injury lawyer, who can explain to you whether an insurance claim is best and can file a claim as well as negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. He or she will review any offers and explain ways you can seek financial recovery.
What Can You Do
All CWA members should make sure that their employer is maintaining a safe and healthful workplace. The key to making the workplace safe for all CWA members is strong, active local safety and health committees. The committee can identify dangerous conditions at the workplace and discuss them with management. If the employer refuses to cooperate, the committee can request an OSHA inspection. The committee should always coordinate its activities through the local officers, the CWA Representatives, and negotiated safety and health committees.
In addition, CWA members may obtain information and assistance by contacting the:CWA Occupational Safety and Health Department501 Third Street, NWWebpage: www.cwasafetyandhealth.orgPhone: 434-1160.
Developed in 1980 and revised in 1991, 1994, 1996, 1980, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2007, 2009, 2013, and 2017.
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Causes Of Slip Trip And Fall Accidents
There are many reasons that slip and fall accidents occur more on ships than in other workplaces. The most obvious cause is the fact that there is no real solid ground. A ship at sea is at the mercy of the water and the weather. Even in calm waters a ship is not stationary and that means that workers must maintain balance while moving around the ship. If wind or a large wave rocks the ship, falls become more likely. Even an experienced seaman with strong sea legs can be caught off guard by a sudden movement and have a fall or a trip as a result. Anyone on any ship is susceptible to losing balance and falling into a dangerous situation.
Slips on ships are also common for many reasons, one of which is water. Decks are exposed to the elements and if it rains, snows, sleets, or if waves crash onto the deck, it gets wet or even icy, depending on the temperature. These conditions can make the surface slippery and falls are not uncommon as a result. If a ship deck has a non-slip surface and if workers wear appropriate deck shoes, slips can be minimized but may still happen. Even with these precautions in place on a deck or other floor, a spill of oil or other liquid can turn a previously safe deck into an instant slip hazard.
Contact A Maritime Injury Lawyer
If you work in the maritime injury and are suffering due to a slip, trip or fall accident, contact a . Find out what benefits and compensation you may qualify for under U.S. . At Maritime Injury Guide, we can connect you to a skilled maritime lawyer who will make sure that your rights are protected as you seek compensation for your injury.
To get started, call us at 1-877-363-6148, or request a free injury consultation online.
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Common Causes Of Maritime Slip And Fall Accidents
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration , at least 43% of reported maritime injuries are a result of slip and fall accidents. In general, the most common reasons for these types of injuries include:
- Slippery, slick surfaces
- Lack of guardrails, barriers, or safety nets
- Equipment that was improperly secured
- Inadequate lighting
- Improper vessel planning, including high points lacking safety guards, loose ladders, and improper angles and inclines for stairs and stairways
- Insufficient safety training
- Lack of non-skid paint and/or non-skid surfaces
- Failure to establish proper housekeeping procedures aboard the vessel
The majority of these causes could have easily been prevented with the proper safety measures, better training, and better equipment maintenance. The unfortunate fact, however, is that some companies and employers tend to cut corners in areas of safety in order to save money, which leads to injuries that should have never happened.
What Happens During A Slip And Fall
Slip and falls often happen out of nowhere. As you start to fall, your body might flood with adrenaline, the fight or flight hormone. According to Havard Health, this stress response can lead to:
- Faster breathing
This stress response makes you more alert to whats happening. If your body reacts quickly enough, you might tense and reach out to try and catch your fall. The attempt to catch yourself might lead to additional hand, arm, or shoulder injuries.
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Slip And Fall Settlements 2021
In the previous year, we could find a lot of slip and fall cases most of the patients were natural and expectable. On Autozone, a man falls by slipping on oil in a parking area. He got $432,000 due to the compensation from the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County. This accident affected his knees and restricted his movements. From this action, we can understand how irresponsible management they have.
Common Causes Of Slip & Fall Accidents
In some cases, a slip and fall may be the result of general clumsiness or a genuinely blameless accident. However, far too often, slip and falls are caused by the negligence of property owners.
Underpremises liability law, property owners have a responsibility to keep their premises reasonably safe for anyone who lawfully enters the property. When property owners fail to address, fix, or warn of dangerous property conditions, others can slip, trip, fall, and be seriously hurt.
Examples of dangerous property conditions that often lead to slip and fall accidents include:
- Wet, slippery floors
- Open trenches, holes, and ditches
- Uneven pavement or asphalt
- Unsafe stairs/steps
- Lack of or broken hand rails
Any of these and other conditions can cause a person to slip and fall, leading to serious injuries and lasting damages. Our firm can help you seek fair compensation for your damages.
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What Are Some Common Injuries Due To A Slip And Fall
Slip and fall accidents are some of the more common causes of serious injury and sometimes even death in the United States and throughout the world. Thousands of patients report to the emergency department each year due to slipping and falling on personal or public property. More than 12 percent of all emergency visits are due to slip and fall accidents alone.
While it might be easy to dismiss a slip and fall accident as nothing more than a small bruise or mild pain, the fact remains that these accidents can result in life-threatening physical injuries, which can lead to temporary or permanent incapacitation and even death. When it comes to slip and fall injuries, caution is always a good practice.