Slip and fall injuries are common occurrences throughout Long Island and can happen almost anywhere at any time. Unfortunately, these accidents can result in severe and life-changing traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
TBIs are a family of serious medical conditions usually caused by a violent blow or jolt to the head. In more severe cases, a TBI can cause long-term cognitive and physical impairments and leave victims disabled for years to come.
TBI Statistics in the United States
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) affect brain functions and are typically caused by sudden or unexpected trauma to the head. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the United States logs approximately 2.5 million annual ER visits for TBIs.
Many TBIs are mild, but more severe injuries are also common, especially after car crashes and serious falls.
When it comes to the prevalence of TBIs, most are caused by the three leading factors:
- Unintentional falls
- Objects striking the head
- Car crashes
Falls account for nearly 48% of all TBI-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths. Among adults 65 years and older, slip and fall accidents are the leading cause of TBIs and account for 81% of all TBI-related injuries.
Traumatic Brain Injuries and their Symptoms
TBIs can be classified into two main categories:
- Closed head injuries
- Open head injuries
A closed head injury happens when a person suffers a blow to the head, but the skull does not fracture. An open head injury occurs when there is a break or puncture in the skull, resulting in damage to the brain or tissues surrounding the brain.
The symptoms of a TBI can vary widely and largely depend on the severity of the injury and the type of accident. Mild TBI symptoms can include a wide range of symptoms, such as:
- Headache
- Confusion
- Blurred Vision
- Ear ringing
- Insomnia
- Concentration problems
- Dizziness
- Motor skills impairment
The most common diagnosis for a mild TBI is called a concussion. Concussions occur when the brain suffers mild to moderate swelling or bruising after a severe blow or impact.
More severe TBI symptoms can include loss of consciousness, seizures, slurred speech, and weakness or numbness in the extremities. In the most extreme cases, a TBI can cause paralysis, permanent disabilities, and even death.
Slip and Fall Accidents Explained
Anyone is susceptible to slip and fall accidents. From ill-maintained sidewalks to spills at the grocery store, poor conditions can quickly lead to injury.
Slip and fall accidents may occur in various settings, including homes, workplaces, and public spaces. Some of the common causes include:
- Wet or slippery floors
- Uneven walking surfaces
- Poor lighting
- Cluttered walkways
- Structural defects
In the workplace, these accidents are often the result of unsafe working conditions, such as a lack of safety equipment or inadequate training. New York employers are required to comply with state and federal safety standards.
Recovering Damages After a TBI
The first stage in the claims process is to determine who may be liable for your injuries. In some cases, a negligent property owner may be responsible for failing to maintain safe conditions.
If you recently suffered a traumatic brain injury due to a slip and fall incident, a personal injury attorney is your best resource for pursuing damages and seeking to hold the responsible party accountable.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Kohan Law Group in Nassau County, Long Island, can help you navigate the state’s complex legal process of filing a claim. Our team can provide guidance on how to build a strong case, and we’ll negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to fight for the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today for more information.