Slip and falls are unfortunately an all too common occurrence throughout the US, and San Bernardino, California is no different. These types of accidents can happen anywhere and can result in life-altering injuries. According to statistics provided by The National Floor Safety Institute, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that slip and falls accounted for 5% of job-related fatalities for women and 11% for men, which indicates a higher risk for men in these incidents. Overall, slip and falls account for more than 1 million emergency room visits, comprising 12% of all fall related accidents. 

While many are inclined to quickly hop to their feet after a slip and fall accident and claim they are fine, sometimes injuries are not immediately apparent and may manifest later. This highlights the seriousness of these accidents, and how adrenaline is a common culprit in masking the severity of slip and fall injuries. 

At the Gold Firm, our San Bernardino slip and fall lawyers understand all too well how life-changing these types of accidents can be, no matter where they occur. Even if you initially feel uninjured, slip and fall accidents can later manifest into serious injuries. That’s why we’re committed to ensuring our community has the knowledge they need about the injuries that can result from a slip and fall accident. It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms that may appear after a slip and fall incident, as injuries can sometimes be masked by adrenaline or appear over time. By providing information and guidance on these warning signs, we aim to educate individuals on when to take proactive steps toward seeking medical attention, their recovery, and legal recourse, ensuring they receive the support and compensation they deserve.

If you have been injured in a slip and fall injury in California, contact the San Bernardino personal injury attorneys at the Gold Firm for a free consultation of your case. Call us today at 909-308-1118 or fill our out online form.

3 Most Common Slip & Fall Injuries

A wide range of injuries can result from a slip and fall accident in San Bernardino, but certain types are more common than others, especially among older adults. Understanding these common injuries is essential for recognizing their signs and symptoms, as well as the potential impact and taking appropriate steps for treatment and prevention.

Broken or Fractured Bones

Broken bones are one of the most common types of injuries that can occur in a slip and fall accident. This is especially true for elderly individuals whose bones have become weaker as they age. This makes them susceptible to fractures and broken bones rather than strains and sprains. When a sudden slip and fall puts enough pressure or force on the bones, it can lead to breaks or fractures in various parts of the body, including the: 

• Hips
• Wrists
• Ankles
• Arms
• Ribs
• Collarbones

The signs and symptoms of a broken bone often include intense pain where the bone is broken, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving or putting weight on the affected area. Any broken bone from a fall can be extremely painful and typically requires medical attention and an extended period of time to heal. This is why, if you believe you have sustained a broken bone in a slip and fall accident, you should seek immediate medical attention and follow a proper recovery plan.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Our team of experienced San Bernardino brain injury attorneys know all to well that traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most common types of injuries that can be sustained from slip and fall accidents. A TBI can occur when a slip and fall victim strikes their head directly on the ground or another object, such as a wall or railing. However, TBIs can also happen without direct impact to the head, simply from the force of the head snapping sharply during a fall, which can cause trauma to the brain.

Any brain injury is serious and requires immediate medical attention, however adrenaline may mask a head injury after being in a slip and fall injury. This is especially true when there is no direct head impact, a slip and fall victim might not realize they have injured their brain until it is too late. This is why seeking medical attention after a serious fall is very important, especially if you start to experience these warning signs: 

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Disorientation
• Confusion
• Blurry vision
• Ringing in the ears

If you experience any of these symptoms after being in a slip and fall could indicate some form of head or brain trauma, ranging from a mild concussion to a more severe and maybe permanent brain injury. If you fall and experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor immediately, even if you did not hit your head directly when you slipped and fell.

Spinal Cord & Neck Injuries

Neck and spinal cord injuries are also an all too common type of slip and fall injury. Unfortunately, these injuries often do not reveal themselves immediately, with symptoms potentially appearing several days after the fall, however they can be detected right away if medical attention is sought right away. 

Neck and spinal cord injuries that are caused by a slip and fall accident can vary in severity, ranging from minor to severe, and can significantly impact an individual’s mobility and overall course of their life. These injuries may manifest themselves in various ways, with symptoms including: 

• Severe pain
• Loss of sensation or movement in the limbs
• Difficulty breathing
• Paralysis

The consequences of a spinal cord or neck injury can be profound and life-altering, making it vital to recognize the warning signs and symptoms. Immediate medical attention is important to prevent further damage and start the recovery process. Treatment protocols for neck and spinal cord injuries after a slip and fall may involve spinal immobilization, surgical intervention, and extensive physical therapy to mitigate long-term effects and restore function. Therefore, if you experience any symptoms that point towards a neck or spinal cord injury, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. 

What To Do If I’m Feeling Unwell After A Fall

If you are feeling unwell or are throwing up after a fall, it is very important that you go to the emergency room or seek another form of medical attention immediately. These symptoms could indicate a potentially life-threatening and unnoticed injury. Having nausea after a fall can be a symptom caused by internal injuries, such as internal bleeding or organ damage. These injuries may not always immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated. Additionally, a head injury, such as a concussion or traumatic brain injury, can also cause an accident victim to experience nausea after a fall. These conditions require prompt medical evaluation to prevent further complications and to ensure they obtain appropriate treatment. Early intervention is critical to addressing any underlying injuries and safeguarding your health.

To avoid feeling unwell after a fall, it is always recommended that you seek medical attention immediately, either at the emergency room or from an EMT. Prompt medical evaluation is the best way to diagnose any underlying or unrecognized injuries caused by a slip and fall. After being quickly diagnosed, victims can start appropriate treatment for their injuries before they can develop into worsening conditions. This is also especially important when seeking compensation for these injuries, as it does not give the defendant the ability to dismiss the severity of your injuries by pointing out a delay in seeking medical treatment. By acting quickly, you can ensure that potential injuries, such as internal bleeding, organ damage, or head trauma, are identified and your right to compensation is protected. 

Injured In A Slip And Fall Accident In San Bernardino?

If you’ve been injured or are feeling unwell after a slip and fall accident in San Bernardino, don’t hesitate to contact a slip and fall accident lawyer at the Gold Firm. We are dedicated to helping you fight for your right to compensation, assuring you can focus on healing from your injuries in the meantime. Our experienced San Bernardino slip and fall attorneys understand the complexities of slip and fall cases and are committed to providing the support and representation you need, whether it be in court or when negotiating with insurance companies. Let our San Bernardino personal injury attorneys handle the legal process while you concentrate on your recovery, making sure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.