Slip and fall accidents account for some of the most frequent injuries treated in South Carolina emergency rooms. While some slip and fall injuries are minor and immediately apparent, many are not visible and may be life-threatening.
South Carolina personal injury attorneys urge all slip and fall victims to protect their health by seeking a thorough medical exam following the incident. Attending physicians will assess your physical condition after the fall and advise you regarding common slip and fall injuries and their symptoms.
What are the Most Common Slip and Fall Injuries?
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, at any time, and in any condition, and can easily wreak havoc in victims’ lives through resulting injuries. Five of the most common slip and fall injuries include:
Bruises and Soft Tissue Injuries
Bruises and soft tissue injuries often appear days or weeks after a slip and fall accident. While mild bruising generally heals on its own, other soft tissue injuries may cause severe pain and require medical treatment. Soft tissue injuries include torn ligaments, ripped tendons, wrist, and ankle sprains.
Cuts and Abrasions
Cuts and abrasions are generally considered among the milder injuries suffered in slip and falls. However, they can also indicate more serious underlying injuries and should be attended to by medical professionals. Cleaning the wounds promptly will reduce the risk of infection and determine if stitches are required or if other associated injuries such as broken bones or internal trauma exist.
Hip Fractures and Dislocations
Hip injuries are fairly common in slip and fall accidents, particularly in older fall victims. Hip fractures and dislocations often require surgery and physical therapy for complete recovery, both of which are painful, prolonged, and costly.
Head Injury
Concussions and traumatic brain injuries are among the most devastating slip and fall injuries suffered by fall victims. Because these injuries are not immediately evident, the risk of life-threatening complications is high. TBI symptoms are often undetected or mild at first, leading to a devastating delay in much needed medical diagnosis and treatment.
Back Injury
Back injuries run the gamut from compressed and dislocated discs to severed spinal cords resulting in paralysis. If you suffer a slip and fall injury and experience any pain in your neck or back, you must immediately seek medical attention. It is best not to move and receive medical attention on-site or to be transported by emergency responders to the nearest hospital for immediate treatment.
Contact a South Carolina Slip and Fall Injury Attorney Today
If you or someone you love has suffered a South Carolina slip and fall accident, seek medical treatment immediately. Your health and well-being are your first priority.
After you have been attended to by medical professionals, you may experience feelings of confusion and anger, questioning what caused the fall, and if anyone is responsible.
An experienced personal injury attorney can help you sort through your questions and determine if you are entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Contact our office today for a comprehensive case assessment with a qualified South Carolina personal injury attorney. Together, we will review the facts of your accident and strive to win you the compensation you deserve to aid in healing and recovery.