Slip and fall accidents can happen to anyone almost anywhere. All it takes is a slippery, uneven or otherwise unexpected walking surface to lead to a fall.
According to the National Floor Safety Institute, falls are the leading cause for emergency room visits. Every year over eight million people will end up in the hospital due to a fall, and women are more likely to die due to a slip and fall accident than men.
General facts
Slip and fall accidents are most common in individuals who are age 65 or older, and over 60% of people who die due to a fall are 75 years old or older. This population is also more likely to suffer serious injuries as a result of a fall. Falls in the home are most often slip and falls and not from elevated surfaces.
The most common injury from this type of accident is a fracture. The worst type of fracture is usually to the hip, which can lead to complications involving long-term health issues and lead to death. Many people who suffer a hip fracture will be unable to ever live independently again because they do not heal completely.
Slip and falls at work
Slip and fall accidents cause the most lost days of work. They are also the main reason for claims to workers’ compensation. Workers who are 55 years old or older are most likely to suffer a slip and fall accident at work.
Flooring contributions
Flooring materials contribute greatly to slip and fall accidents. Slippery floors are the most likely to cause a fall, but uneven floors or sudden changes in texture or slope can also cause falls.
Ms. Olsen has practiced law since 1992. During her law school education and throughout career she knew, if it is not about people, she is not interested. Everything about people interests Ms. Olsen from the simple details of living to the most profound. She began her law career in a skyscraper in downtown Miami representing corporate interests. Within a VERY short time, Pam knew that side of the things in the world was not for her.
