Every workplace has its share of hazards. Most often, there is no forewarning or time to prepare for the workplace accidents like slips and falls. Still, even with the best safety measures in place, a slip-and-fall accident can still happen. And the resulting injuries can be catastrophic.
Most slip-and-fall accidents are caused by preventable hazards like wet floors, loose cables and torn carpets, cracks in the sidewalk and faulty guard rails among others. Depending on the severity of the fall, you can sustain the following catastrophic injuries:
1. Broken bones
The trauma that comes with a slip-and-fall accident can easily break or fracture bones especially if you are advanced in age or if you land on a hard surface like concrete. A hip fracture is one of the most dangerous complications you can suffer during a slip-and-fall.
2. Injuries to the spine
Spinal cord injuries (SCI) that result from slip-and-fall accidents can range from pinched nerves to slipped or herniated discs and fractured vertebrae among others. Symptoms too vary from mild pain and reduced mobility to partial or total paralysis.
3. Concussions
As far as slips and falls go, concussions mostly happen when you land your head on a hard surface during the fall. Some of the symptoms you need to look out for include nausea, unending headache, confusion and ringing in the ears.
What to do after slipping and falling at work
Taking the right steps after a work-related slip-and-fall accident can mean the difference between receiving the compensation you deserve for your injuries or dealing with the long-term consequences of the accident on your own. Here are three things you need to do as soon as possible:
- Seek treatment ASAP
- Report the accident to your employer in writing within 30 days
- File your workers’ compensation claim within one year
Slip-and-fall accidents at work can lead to catastrophic injuries. Find out how you can protect your rights and interests while pursuing damages resulting from a workplace-related slip-and-fall accident.