Slip and fall injuries are a prevalent and often underestimated issue in the United States, affecting millions of individuals each year. According to research by the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), these accidents contribute significantly to the staggering eight million injuries and fatalities that occur annually in the U.S. Shockingly, one-eighth of these cases are attributed to slip and fall incidents. These accidents result in a range of injuries, with 5% leading to broken bones, including hip and elbow fractures. Furthermore, injuries in slip and fall accidents are particularly worrisome for older adults, as they are the leading cause of occupational injuries among those aged 55 and older.
In South Carolina, including Myrtle Beach and other areas, these statistics hold true, with 1.5 million elderly adults over the age of 65 seeking emergency room treatment for injuries caused by slips and falls. It is crucial for everyone to be aware of the potential consequences of these seemingly minor incidents, as they can lead to severe injuries. This awareness underscores the paramount importance of prevention and safety measures to reduce the risks of slip and fall accidents in our everyday lives.
Negligent security cases, like slip and fall accidents, can cause severe injuries. A negligent security attorney helps victims of crimes due to inadequate security in places such as shopping centers or apartment complexes. Understanding these risks and seeking legal help is crucial for safety and justice.
What is a slip and fall accident?
A slip and fall case pertains to a legal action arising from an incident wherein a visitor sustains slip and fall accidents due to a hazardous condition on the premises. Although commonly associated with slipping and falling, such cases encompass various scenarios, including:
- Tripping over a concealed obstacle
- Slipping on ice-covered parking lots or sidewalks
- Falling into hidden sinkholes
- Collapsing through weak flooring or steps
For a slip and fall case to be established, certain criteria must be met, including:
- Duty of care: The property owner or manager is obligated to inspect the premises and rectify any hazardous conditions. This duty varies depending on the type of property and the status of the visitor (e.g., invitees or licensees).
- Hazardous condition: There must have been a dangerous condition present on the property.
- Knowledge: The property owner or manager must have been aware of or been notified about the hazardous condition beforehand.
- Damages: The victim must have been permitted on the property despite the hazardous condition and must have sustained injuries in slip and fall accidents. Damages encompass economic losses (such as medical expenses and lost wages) as well as non-economic losses (like pain and suffering). In certain jurisdictions, punitive damages may be pursued to penalize the wrongdoer and deter similar misconduct in the future.
While these elements may appear straightforward, navigating a slip and fall case can be intricate, especially when considering common injury types from a slip, trip, and fall in South Carolina. The burden of proof rests on demonstrating, by a preponderance of evidence, that the property or business owner was more likely than not responsible and, consequently, financially liable.
3 Most Common Injury Types from a Slip, Trip, and Fall in South Carolina
In South Carolina, the most common injury types from a slip, trip, and fall include:
- Broken Bones: Commonly seen in the elderly or individuals with conditions like osteoporosis, resulting from the pressure exerted during falls, affecting wrists, arms, hips, and ankles.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: Can occur even without a direct head impact, leading to issues that may not be immediately noticeable but can become severe without proper treatment.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Affect muscles, ligaments, and tendons, often occurring even when there are no fractures. These injuries can cause significant pain and discomfort, highlighting the importance of medical evaluation.Common Injury Types from a Slip, Trip, and Fall in South Carolina
Head Injuries
In Myrtle Beach, slip and fall accidents can result in a range of common head injuries, each with its own set of consequences.
- Head Contusions – One such injury is a contusion, which occurs when direct trauma to the head leads to a bruise on the brain, causing bleeding. While some contusions may be minor, severe cases may necessitate surgical intervention.
- Concussions – Concussions are also prevalent in slip and fall incidents, often resulting from a jolt or blow to the head. Despite being labeled as minor injuries, concussions are a form of traumatic brain injury that can lead to significant suffering. Even seemingly “light” concussions can result in slow healing, substantial medical expenses, and income loss, with more severe cases potentially causing lasting damage to brain function.
- Brain Hematoma – Another head injury seen in these accidents is a hematoma, where a blow to the head damages the brain’s outer blood vessels, resulting in a blood clot that applies pressure on brain tissue. If left untreated, hematomas can lead to further brain function loss.
- Closed Head Injuries – Closed head injuries are another concern, with the skull remaining intact but the brain experiencing damage such as bruised brain tissues, torn blood vessels, increased intracranial pressure, or brain swelling. These injuries can result in long-term problems, impacting victims’ lives.
Head injuries sustained in slip and fall accidents are a significant concern across South Carolina, encompassing cities like Charleston, Columbia, Florence, and Myrtle Beach. These unfortunate incidents underscore the critical importance of vigilance when navigating public spaces.
Walmart slip and fall accidents are a particularly common occurrence that involve head injuries, where the lack of attention or insufficient signage can create hazardous conditions. These head injuries serve as a stark reminder that staying alert and cautious while walking in any location is essential for personal safety. By being mindful of one’s surroundings and potential risks, individuals can play a crucial role in preventing slip and fall accidents and the subsequent physical and legal consequences.
If you or a loved one has suffered any type of head trauma in a slip and fall accident, it may be a consequence of someone’s negligence. You may have the right to pursue a slip and fall injury claim. For a comprehensive discussion of your case, consider reaching out to a Myrtle Beach slip and fall lawyer at The Lovely Law Firm. We can provide you with guidance and support in seeking the compensation you may deserve.
Spinal Cord & Back Injuries
Slip and fall accidents in Myrtle Beach can lead to a range of back and spine injuries, affecting individuals in various settings, from private residences to public places and commercial establishments. While these injuries tend to have a more significant impact on the elderly or those with pre-existing conditions or injuries, they can also result in severe consequences for younger, healthier individuals if the fall is particularly severe.
Common back and spine injuries arising from slip and fall accidents include:
- Compression Of Discs Or Slipped Discs – This can be caused by the impact to the spine, leading to disc damage, compression, or displacement between vertebrae.
- Spinal Cord Injuries Or Cuts – A spinal cord injury or cut is an exceptionally severe outcome in a slip and fall accident due to its potential to cause paralysis and a lifetime of profound physical and neurological challenges. Such injuries can result in the loss of mobility and sensation below the injury site, significantly diminishing an individual’s quality of life and necessitating long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
- Whiplash – Whiplash is considered a severe back injury in a slip and fall accident due to the abrupt and forceful whipping motion of the head and neck, which can lead to significant damage not only to the neck itself but also to the surrounding spinal discs, vertebrae, and the spinal cord. This can result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, and even long-term spinal issues, making it a condition with potentially lasting and debilitating consequences for the victim.
- Nerve Damage – Nerve damage is a particularly severe back injury in a slip and fall accident because it not only causes immediate pain and discomfort but can also lead to long-term and sometimes permanent issues, affecting mobility, sensation, and overall quality of life. Additionally, nerve damage may become further aggravated by future traumas or complications, making it a significant concern in the aftermath of a slip and fall incident.
The severity of back and spinal cord injuries resulting from slip and fall accidents should serve as a stark warning to all individuals, emphasizing the critical importance of mitigating any risks. This is particularly crucial in settings such as vacation homes, where unfamiliar surroundings and varying property conditions can increase the chances of a vacation home slip and fall accident. Avoiding slip and fall incidents not only protects personal well-being but also helps prevent premises liability slip and fall claims, underlining the necessity for vigilance and safety awareness.
If you or a loved one has experienced a back or spinal cord injury as a result of a slip and fall accident in Myrtle Beach, it’s crucial to seek professional guidance. Contact a Myrtle Beach slip and fall lawyer at The Lovely Law Firm, where we are committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring that you receive the highest quality medical treatment available. Our dedicated team will work tirelessly to protect your interests and help you on your path to recovery.
Broken Bones
Broken bone injuries are a common and painful outcome of slip and fall accidents in Myrtle Beach. These fractures can affect various areas of the body, with wrists, arms, hips, and ankles being particularly susceptible. When someone sustains a fracture in such accidents, it often necessitates extensive medical treatment, including casts, surgery, or rehabilitation.
The consequences of these injuries can be long-lasting, potentially resulting in:
- Chronic pain
- Reduced mobility
- Long-term complications
Broken bones are notably prevalent in slip and fall accidents involving delivery drivers, primarily because they often carry packages that limit their ability to brace or catch themselves during a fall. The added challenge of managing packages while navigating potentially hazardous conditions can significantly increase the risk of sustaining bone fractures in the event of a slip and fall, underscoring the importance of both safety precautions and legal support for these individuals.
This makes it crucial for victims to seek immediate medical attention and legal guidance from one of our slip and fall attorneys in Myrtle Beach to address the physical, emotional, and financial challenges they may encounter in the aftermath of slip and fall accidents. If you or a loved one has suffered a broken bone in a slip and fall accident, don’t hesitate to consult with a Myrtle Beach personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation and support you need for your recovery.
What Are The Main Causes Of Injury In The Workplace Slips Trips Or Falls?
The main causes of injuries in the workplace due to slips, trips, or falls encompass several factors that can lead to accidents and potential harm. These factors include:
- Uneven floor surfaces
- Unsuitable floor coverings
- Wet or slippery floors
- Changes in floor levels
- Trailing cables
- Poor lighting
- Poor housekeeping
The Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974 places a significant responsibility on employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees to the extent that is reasonably practicable. This duty includes safeguarding both workers and the public from the risks associated with slips, trips, and falls. Addressing these common causes of workplace accidents through proper maintenance, safety measures, and adherence to health and safety regulations is crucial in mitigating these risks and ensuring a safe environment for all.
Contact A Myrtle Beach Slip & Fall Accident Lawyer Near You Today
Reach out to The Lovely Law Firm today at 843-839-4111 for a complimentary consultation or online. Whether you’ve been in a slip and fall accident at work, or your child was injured at school or on a playground, while on vacation, or in a public place, it’s crucial to remember that you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. At The Lovely Law Firm in Myrtle Beach, our dedicated slip and fall accident lawyers are here to support you in your time of need. Not only will we fight for your legal rights and advocate for the compensation you deserve, but we also prioritize your well-being by ensuring you receive the best possible medical treatment. Our legal team is committed to guiding you through the complex legal process, offering the expertise and compassion necessary to help you on your path to recovery. When you’re dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that come with slip and fall injuries, remember that you can count on us for unwavering support and expert legal assistance.
What A Happy Client Says About The Lovely Law Firm on Google
Attorney Sharde Crawford is the greatest attorney ever!!!!!!!!!!!! She handled my personal injury claim and informed me throughout the process. Attorney Sharde Crawford was able to obtain me a payment for my personal injury that I am truly grateful for!! I recommend anyone to contact the Lovely Law Firm for any legal issues. They take care of you and are very professional. Thank you very much Attorney Crawford from the bottom of my heart.
October, 2023
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