What is a slip and fall injury?

Although slip and falls can result in death, they are much more likely to cause injuries. Slip and fall injuries are injuries caused by slipping, tripping, or falling as a result of hazardous and unsafe property conditions, such as wet or uneven surfaces, defective stairs, sidewalks and furniture, and even parking lot poles and cluttered walkways. Since slip and falls can happen anywhere and under a wide range of conditions, injuries sustained in premise liability cases can be equally diverse.  

Some of the most common types of slip and fall injuries are:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

Head and brain injuries are among the most serious potential consequences of slip and fall accidents and can range from mild concussions to life-altering brain damage. Head injuries are not always outwardly visible, so it is a good idea to seek medical attention after a serious slip and fall, even if you aren’t displaying any symptoms of brain trauma. 

• Spinal cord injuries

Slip and falls are one of the largest causes of spinal cord injuries—second only to car accidents.³ These types of injuries occur when the spinal cord is severed or compressed and are almost always life-threatening and demand immediate medical attention, as well as long-term treatment. 

• Fractures and broken bones

Fractures and broken bones caused by slip and falls can range from hairline fractures to compound fractures that require surgery and physical therapy. Fractures and breaks can also cause internal bleedings, neurological damage, and chronic pain. Hip fractures are among the most common slip and fall injuries, especially among the elderly community.

• Soft tissue injuries

Similar to head and brain injuries, soft tissue injuries are not always detectable. In fact, most people who suffer soft-tissue injuries do not realize they are injured until days, or even weeks or months, later. Soft tissue injuries involve muscle sprains and tears, severe bruises, and damaged tendons, ligaments and connective cartilage. If you have suffered a slip and fall and suspect an injury, it is always best to visit a medical professional for a definite diagnosis. 

• Cuts and wounds

Most slip and falls result in some sort of bruise or cut. Sometimes, cuts and bruises are the extents of the injury. Other times, cuts and bruises are signs of a deeper, more severe injury, such as internal bleeding. Regardless, be sure to care for your cuts and external wounds, as infections are a common side effect of slip and fall cuts. This is especially true if the cut occurred at a less-than-sanitary location, where tetanus, meningitis, and gangrene are more likely to manifest.

See full slip and fall FAQ here