Attorney For Fall Injuries

Falls can lead to debilitating and catastrophic injuries. For so many people in the Cleveland area, a fall from heights or a slip and fall accident can lead to a devastating brain injury or a fracture that severely limits mobility. Much too often, fall accidents and injuries happen because someone else was negligent.

For example, a construction site owner may not have purchased proper safety equipment for workers on roofs or scaffolds, or a business owner failed to repair a damaged stairway railing. Negligence can take many different forms when it comes to fall-related injuries.

As an aggressive Cleveland catastrophic injury attorney who has been serving the Cleveland, Ohio community for decades, I know how important it is to hold the at-fault party accountable. I can speak with you today about your options for seeking financial compensation, and we can get started on your claim to recover compensation.

Getting the Facts About Falls in Cleveland, Ohio

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that falls and fall-related injuries are both “serious and costly.” Many people who suffer injuries in a fall are likely to sustain additional injuries later on. The following information contains some key facts and figures about the catastrophic nature of fall-related injuries provided by the CDC:

• About 20% of fall-related accidents result in a serious or catastrophic injury, such as a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or broken bones;

• Approximately 3 million older adults require treatment in emergency departments every year for injuries they sustained in falls;

• More than 800,000 people must be hospitalized annually as a result of a fall injuries;

• Approximately 300,000 older adults are hospitalized every year for hip fractures resulting from falls;

• About 95% of hip fractures are linked to fall-related accidents;

• Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries in the U.S., including concussions;

• Medical costs for fall-related injuries often total more than $50 billion per year.

Where Do Falls Occur? 

Falls can happen anywhere, and many cause catastrophic injuries. Some common places for fall-related accidents include, but not limited to:

Construction Sites

Falls at construction sites can result in a personal injury claim due to a range of factors. These include uneven or unstable ground surfaces, wet or slippery conditions caused by weather or spilled materials, and the absence of appropriate safety equipment or barriers. In fall cases, individuals may seek compensation for injuries sustained on the construction site, especially if the property owner failed to provide safety measures, thus contributing to the incident. Workers and visitors who are injured on construction sites need to call me as soon as possible. As your personal injury attorney, we will explore legal options to hold the property owner accountable.

Stairways

Stairways are a common location for slip and fall incidents. These falls are usually caused by uneven or damaged steps, poorly maintained or missing handrails, or insufficient lighting on the stairs. If the property owner’s negligence can be established, it may be possible to pursue a slip and fall claim. I have been a Cleveland slip and fall lawyer for more than 40 years, and I will help you navigate through the legal process to obtain maximum compensation.

Poorly Lit Outdoor Walkways

Inadequate lighting along outdoor walkways can significantly increase the risk of a incident, potentially leading to a slip and fall case. Limited visibility due to poor lighting can make it challenging to detect hazards such as uneven or cracked pavement, bulging, tree roots, or debris, all of which can cause trip hazards. Victims of these incidents may suffer severe injuries, and should seek compensation via a personal injury claim. The first step is to call me to discuss your slip and fall incident. I have won hundreds of millions of dollars for my injured clients over the last 40+ years of practice.

Indoor Hallways

Indoor hallways may become slippery or wet due to spills or wet floors from mopping, often leading to injury. Loose or damaged flooring materials can create tripping risks, and clutter or obstacles in the hallway can impede safe passage. Poor lighting exacerbates these hazards. Individuals who suffer injuries due to such incidents should explore their legal options, and I’m here to help.

Rooms with Loose Area Rugs

Loose area rugs can be a serious problem. They are prone to cause slip and fall incidents when people trip over the edges or corners of the rugs. A major factor in slipping injuries is when rugs are not properly secured to the floor, thus can shift underfoot. Rugs with wrinkles or folds can create tripping hazards. Ensuring rugs have non-slip backing can help mitigate these risks, but many business owners neglect this safety improvement. I want to make sure that safety improvements are not ignored, and we hold them accountable.

Restrooms Without Handrails

All restrooms need handrails. Those without can be problematic for people with mobility issues, potentially resulting in slip and fall incidents and serious injury. Slippery and wet surfaces, particularly around sinks and showers, can be treacherous. Inadequate support and assistance for those who need it can result in awkward movement, increasing the chance of falling. Installing grab bars or handrails near toilets and in showers is essential to ensure restroom safety.

If you’ve suffered injury because of poorly maintained facilities, you need to call me. I will help you obtain the money you need to recover from your injuries, while also holding business owners responsible for their safety negligence. I want the citizens of Cleveland to feel safe at work, and while in public places. The best way to accomplish this, is to hold those who ignore public safety accountable. Call me today, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Common Injuries in Fall-Related Accidents 

Catastrophic injuries are common in fall-related accidents. The CDC cites some of the following as the most common injuries in falls:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

When an individual falls and their head makes direct contact with a hard surface, such as the ground or a piece of furniture, they can suffer a severe brain injury. The force of the impact can cause the brain to move within the skull, potentially resulting in bruising, swelling, or bleeding in the brain. Fall victims who hit their heads need to seek immediate medical attention. Then, we need talk about your legal rights and potential financial compensation.

Hip Fractures

Hip fractures often occur in older individuals who fall. When a person falls, they may land on their side, and the impact can be concentrated on the hip joint, potentially resulting in leg or hip fractures. These fractures can result in significant mobility issues and complications, making it difficult, sometimes impossible to walk.

Wrist and Arm Fractures

Outstretched hands are a natural response when a person tries to break their fall. This can lead to wrist and arm fractures, especially if the person lands with significant force on their hands or wrists. The impact can cause the bones in the wrist or forearm to break or fracture, resulting in pain and potentially, time off work. You have legal recourse, so call me today for your free consultation.

Ankle Fractures

When a person lands awkwardly on their foot or twists their ankle during a fall, they may suffer an ankle fracture. The force of the fall can cause the bones in the ankle to break, leading to serious injuries, missed work, and possibly making everyday tasks difficult to complete.

Internal Bleeding

In serious cases, internal bleeding can occur if there is trauma to internal organs or blood vessels. For example, a fall can cause a person to land on their abdomen or chest, leading to injuries to the liver, spleen, or other organs. Internal bleeding can be life-threatening, and may not always be immediately apparent, making it a serious concern in fall-related injuries. I want to hold property owners accountable and thus change their future actions so no one else is hurt.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Falls, especially those involving significant force or from elevated heights, can lead to spinal cord injuries, loss of sensation and paralysis. Often times, victims who suffer spinal cord injuries require extensive medical treatment and long term rehabilitation. They may also face substantial medical bills and lost wages.

Fractured Ribs

Falling onto a hard surface or experiencing a forceful impact can result in fractured ribs. Fractured ribs cause sharp pain and a great deal of discomfort. Even breathing and simple movement can be difficult and painful. As you slip and fall attorney, we will discuss the circumstances of your fall and explore a personal injury claim against the negligent property owner.

Facial Injuries

Facial injuries can occur when a person falls and strikes their face against a hard object or surface. Slip and fall injuries may include fractures of the facial bones (e.g., nose, cheekbones), cuts, bruises, and dental injuries. These injuries can be extremely painful, and may require surgical intervention for repair. We will pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the property owner responsible for your injuries.

Call me, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

What To Do After Suffering a Fall Injury

1. Assess Your Condition: Immediately following a fall, take a moment to assess your condition. Check for injuries, including pain, swelling, bleeding, or any signs of fractures. Determine whether you can move, and whether you are experiencing any difficulty breathing or other serious symptoms.

2. Seek Medical Attention: If your fall has resulted in significant injuries, such as head trauma, severe pain, difficulty moving, or suspected internal injuries, it is crucial to call 911 or seek immediate medical assistance. Do not attempt to move if you suspect a spinal injury, as any movement can exacerbate the damage.

3. Notify Someone: If you’re unable to call for help yourself, ask someone nearby to do so immediately. Alternatively, if you have a medical alert system, activate it to summon help as quickly as possible.

4. Stay Calm: It’s natural to feel panicked or anxious after a fall, but try to remain as calm as possible. Deep breaths and a clear mind can help you better assess the situation and communicate your needs effectively.

5. Document the Scene: If you’re physically able to do so, document the scene where the fall occurred. Take photographs or make detailed notes about any hazards or dangerous conditions that may have contributed to your fall. This documentation can be valuable if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.

6. Report the Incident: If your fall took place on someone else’s property or at a business establishment, report the incident to the property owner, manager, or responsible party. Request a copy of the incident report, if available, as it can serve as evidence in a potential legal claim.

7. Gather Witness Information: If there were witnesses to your fall, obtain their contact information. Eyewitness statements can be significant in corroborating your account of the incident, and can be helpful if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.

8. Keep Records: Maintain meticulous records of your medical treatment. This includes notes on doctor’s visits, hospitalization, diagnostic tests, and prescriptions. Document any changes in your symptoms or condition as you progress through your recovery.

9. Follow Medical Advice: It’s essential to follow the treatment plan prescribed by your healthcare provider. Attend all scheduled medical appointments, therapy sessions, and follow their recommendations for recovery and rehabilitation. Complying with medical advice can help improve your chances for a full recovery.

10. Document Financial Losses: Keep thorough records of all financial losses associated with the fall injury. This includes medical bills, lost wages due to time off of work, and any other out-of-pocket expenses related to your recovery and rehabilitation.

11. Preserve Evidence: To support your potential legal claim, preserve any physical evidence linked to the fall. This may include the clothing and footwear you wore during the incident, or any items that were involved in the fall.

12. Notify Your Insurance Company: If you have insurance coverage, report the incident to your insurance company. Provide them with all of the necessary information they need to initiate potential claims or coverage.

13. Call Me: I have been a personal injury lawyer for the great people of Cleveland for more than 40 years! You know what I do!

Contact Me for Help with Your Fall Injury Claim 

Fall-related injuries can be catastrophic, especially when a person falls from heights, or when an older adult suffers a slip and fall injury. As an experienced catastrophic injury attorney in Cleveland, Ohio, I have years of experience holding at-fault parties accountable.

I know how important this claim is to you and to your family, and I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call me today at 800-556-4769 to learn more about how I can help you get the financial compensation you are entitled to.