Top 5 Causes of Death: Slip-and-Falls

Slip-and-fall accidents are one of the top five causes of death. Falls are responsible for concussions and bone fractures.

New reports cited by WRAL state that one in three people will fall down every year. Anyone with vision impairments, arthritis pain or who is over age 65 and taking more than four medications is at a high risk of falling.

Slip-and-fall injuries are a top concern for those caring for the elderly and nursing homes should have special protocol for reducing or eliminating obstructions that could cause tripping or slipping. The new report explains that a third of ER visits were the result of improper cane and walker use. If you or someone you know is at a high risk of falling make sure they know the correct way to use their cane or walker.

If a slip-and-fall victim lands on the floor and hasn't suffered any injuries they should be fine, right? Not necessarily. If the victim is alone and unable to get up without someone else's help, they could be without medication, food or water for a long time depending on how often they have care or visitors. Make sure you or someone you know has a caregiver or friend checking in daily if not more often.

What are the Top 5 Causes of Death?

1. Heart disease
2. Cancer
3. Stroke
4. Chronic lower respiratory diseases
5. Accidents and unintentional injuries

Even if a fall doesn't cause death, there can be long-term consequences. For slips that occur because of poor supervision at a nursing home, negligent property owners who don't repair severe sidewalk cracks or poorly lit walkways, victims should be compensated. Slip-and-fall attorneys at Brent Adams & Associates work with injured parties across NC from three offices in Raleigh, Dunn and Fayetteville. Our slip-and-fall lawyers handle cases that pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and long-term care.