What Injuries Can Occur as a Result of a Slip and Fall Accident in New Jersey?

Slips and falls are more than just embarrassing accidents. These incidents can result in debilitating injuries. Slips and falls are actually the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths.

While you may not die from the typical slip and fall accident, you could suffer a variety of painful injuries. Some of these injuries may not even show up right away, so it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible to preserve your legal rights. Here is a look at common injuries you need to be aware of after a slip and fall.

Sprains and Strains

These are some of the most common injuries in slip and fall accidents. When someone slips, they instinctively try to catch themselves, twisting or overextending joints. A sprain involves overstretched or torn ligaments, while a strain involves overstretched or torn muscles/tendons. Ankles and wrists are especially vulnerable. Look for symptoms such as pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility.

Broken Bones

Falls often lead to fractures, or broken bones. This is especially true if the person lands directly on a limb or hip. Wrist and arm fractures are common when people try to break their fall with their hands. Hip fractures are more common in older adults, especially from falls on hard surfaces.

Head Injuries

A head impact can lead to serious outcomes, from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries. Even a fall from standing height can cause a concussion. In severe cases, falls can cause brain bleeding or swelling, which can be life-threatening. A head injury may cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, blurred vision, and memory problems.

Back and Spinal Injuries

Slips and falls can cause trauma to the spine, particularly if the person lands on their back. Injuries include herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or soft tissue damage. Severe falls can lead to nerve compression or even paralysis, especially if the spinal cord is involved. Symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling, and reduced range of motion.

Shoulder Injuries

If someone falls sideways or directly onto their shoulder, it can cause rotator cuff tears, which can result in damage to muscles and tendons. Dislocations can cause the upper arm bone to pop out of the shoulder socket. These injuries often require physical therapy and sometimes surgery. Look for symptoms such as pain, swelling, weakness, and limited range of motion.

Cuts and Bruises

Cuts and bruises are not as severe as the other injuries listed above, but abrasions, lacerations, and bruising are extremely common. Areas like the knees, elbows, hands, and face are most likely to get injured. These cuts can sometimes be deep and require stitches.

Contact Our New Jersey Premises Liability Attorneys Today

Slips and falls can result in serious and even permanent injuries. It is important to get the medical and financial help you need to move forward.

The New Jersey premises liability attorneys at Leonard Legal Group are ready to hold the negligent property owners liable and help you get the compensation you deserve. To schedule a consultation, give us a call at (973) 984-1414 or reach out online.