When people lose their balance and fall, they often injure their arms and shoulders. Those injuries occur because they try to stop their fall by bracing against impact.
Sometimes slip-and-falls occur so quickly that a person cannot act to slow their descent. Other times, when people fall directly backward after slipping, it may be impossible to respond. People who hit their heads on shopping carts, walls, store fixtures or the floor are at risk of sustaining traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). When that happens, an injured person may need to pursue a premises liability lawsuit due to the massive financial impact of their injuries.
Why TBIs are so expensive
TBIs may require surgery to prevent the inflammation or bleeding inside the skull from causing permanent, devastating structural changes to the brain. The medical costs associated with a TBI can be anywhere from tens of thousands of dollars to millions of dollars when looking at lifetime care costs.
People with moderate to severe TBIs are also at risk of a substantial reduction in their income. Brain injuries can affect everything from balance and memory to motor function and personality. They may leave people incapable of working any job or continuing a well-paid career.
Those with serious slip-and-fall injuries may need to report the fall to the facility manager before they leave. They may need to collect evidence, ranging from documenting unsafe property conditions to gathering the names of witnesses. They also likely need prompt medical attention, as well as guidance from a personal injury attorney.
Understanding that even a same-level fall, such as a slip-and-fall at a store, can cause a brain injury can help people respond appropriately after unexpected incidents. Injured customers may need support during insurance claims or lawsuits, and that’s okay.