How Senior Citizens Are Affected by Slip and Fall Accidents
No matter how attentive you are, it’s easy to slip and fall. Even a near-miss can be painful, thanks to your body’s efforts to break your fall and prepare you for impact. Southern California is home to millions of senior citizens, all of whom are at risk of serious health issues and injuries if they fall. When you are involved in a fall, it’s important to explore your legal options as soon as possible. If your fall occurred because of poorly maintained property or unsafe building features, the property owner could be liable. At DeWitt Algorri & Algorri, we go head to head with insurance companies all the time. We know that they’re trying to save money by paying you as little as possible, and we’re committed to helping you get what you deserve. Set up a free consultation now by calling us at 855-946-6464.
This issue will only grow in importance as California’s aging population continues to grow. Between 2010 and 2060, the state’s over-60 population is expected to jump 166%. Southern California is expected to see some of the largest jumps during this time, and some of the most significant growth will come from those aged 80 and older. As the needs of the population shift, it will be increasingly important for property owners to take steps to keep visitors safe.
Increased Risk Factors for Seniors
Why are seniors at greater risk of falls? A number of factors contribute to this phenomenon. Not only are seniors more likely to fall, they are more likely to suffer serious injuries when they do so. Some contributing factors include:
- Limited mobility: As senior citizens age, their mobility tends to decline. This affects their balance and speed, often making it harder for them to avoid obstacles.
- Vision impairment: Vision is another sense affected by the aging process. In particular, seniors experience issues with their peripheral vision and depth perception, both of which can make it harder to navigate obstacles and react to hazards in their environment.
- Balance issues: Balance tends to fail as people age. The vestibular system suffers during the aging process. This increases the likelihood of falling, even without the presence of obstacles. When you add in obstacles, this risk only grows.
- Health conditions: Many older people have chronic health conditions that affect their overall well-being and put them at greater risk of serious injuries during a fall. Relevant conditions include arthritis, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
- Medication side effects: Dizziness, drowsiness, poor depth perception, and other side effects of commonly prescribed medications can put seniors at risk.
Injuries Caused By Slip and Fall Accidents
Injuries vary widely after a slip and fall. Much depends on the height of the fall, the overall health of the victim, and whether the fall was at the same height or to a lower level. Commonly reported injuries include:
- Broken bones: Broken bones can have a profound impact on a senior’s quality of life, since they often need much more invasive medical care and have a longer path to healing. Hip fractures, in particular, are likely to cause health complications and permanent loss of mobility.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries are often reported when a victim hits their head during a fall. Most minor TBIs generally resolve on their own, while moderate and severe injuries may leave victims with permanent complications and impairments. Cognitive impairments are often reported.
- Bruises: Bruising is extremely common after a fall, due to seniors’ thinning skin and a decrease in overall health. Senior citizens also suffer from slower recovery from bruises.
- Spinal cord damage: Severe falls and those from significant heights may cause permanent damage to the spinal cord, permanently limiting an individual’s independence and mobility.
- Dislocated joints: Dislocated joints are incredibly painful and often require medical care. Even with prompt care, senior citizens may suffer ongoing pain.
Liability in Slip and Fall Injuries
When a senior citizen is injured in a slip and fall accident, it’s important to determine who’s at fault for the accident and if the victim is entitled to compensation. In some situations, it’s simply an unfortunate accident that isn’t anyone’s fault. In these cases, compensation is rarely available. But when you can trace your injury back to an individual’s negligence, compensation may be available. Property owners are generally liable for poorly maintained aspects of their property, and caregivers or nursing homes may be held liable if they do not properly protect seniors from falls.
Choose DeWitt Algorri & Algorri for Your Slip and Fall Injury Claim
A senior citizen could experience a significant decrease in their quality of life after a fall. Make sure that you or your loved one has access to the care they need to recover. The premise liability lawyers at DeWitt Algorri & Algorri is here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Schedule your free consultation now by calling 855-946-6464 or contacting us online.
Mark Algorri has successfully represented individuals and their families in matters involving serious and catastrophic injuries, insurance claims denials, and wrongful deaths, achieving a success rate of 99 percent for our clients.
