Falls happen every day, but just because they are common does not mean that they are by any means a minor problem in the United States. While some slip and fall accidents result in bruises or scrapes, others can result in serious injuries such as fractures, traumatic brain injuries, or paralysis.
Most people don’t realize the dangers of slip and fall accidents until it happens to them or a loved one. But it’s important to educate yourself on the prevalence and cost of these accidents so that, if one does occur, your safety and legal rights are protected.
1. Each year, more than one million people go to the emergency room for injuries sustained in slip and fall accidents.
More than one million people in the U.S. seek medical care after a slip and fall accident—that breaks down to more than two thousand people every day. Slip and fall accidents make up about 12% of total fall-related ER visits.
2. The average cost of a slip and fall is $30,000 to $40,000.
After you slip and fall, you may think that you can handle your medical expenses yourself. But it’s important to remember that bills can rack up fast. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the average cost of a slip and fall accident is $30,000 to $40,000. These are for direct medical costs associated with:
- Hospital visits
- Nursing home care
- Rehabilitation
- Community-based services
- Prescription drugs
- Insurance processing
These costs do not account for long-term effects associated with disability, lost time from work, or dependence on others.
3. Slip and falls are a leading cause of injury for all age groups.
About one-third of slip and fall victims are individuals aged 65 or older; in fact, falls are a leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal, trauma-related hospital admission for this age group. But while older adults are at an increased risk of sustaining injuries in slip and fall accidents, they are a leading cause of injury for all age groups.
4. Slip and falls are the primary cause of lost days from work.
While slip and fall accidents are not a primary cause of fatal occupational injuries, they are the primary cause of lost days from work. Additionally, slip and falls are one of the leading causes of workers’ comp claims and work injury in people aged 55 years or older.
The reality is that almost all slip and fall accidents are avoidable, and most of these injuries are the result of negligent property owners who fail to keep their properties reasonably safe. If you or a loved one is injured in a slip and fall accident, please don’t hesitate to reach out to The Chopin Law Firm for help filing a premises liability claim.
With over 100 years of collective experience, we are dedicated to putting our clients first, above all else. Our legal team will help craft a personalized legal strategy that is aligned with your goals and maximizes your chances of receiving full and fair compensation for your injuries.
Contact our New Orleans slip and fall accident attorneys at (504) 475-2429 to get started with your free case review.
