Whether it’s at home, in a store, or in any other establishment, people expect to feel safe when going about their daily lives. While this is usually true, accidents can and do happen. Slip and fall injuries are among the most common outcomes of these accidents, ranging from minor bruises to life-changing harm. Slip and fall accidents often happen when property owners or managers fail to reasonably protect employees, customers, or visitors from safety risks. These hazardous conditions, called dangerous premises, can easily cause avoidable slip and fall injuries.
Slip and fall accidents are particularly common during the winter months, when ice and snow create extra hazards, but they can happen at any time of year due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, and other dangerous conditions. Recognizing injuries quickly is crucial, not only for your health, but also if you are considering a legal claim.
Common Slip and Fall Injuries
When a fall occurs, the impact can affect various parts of the body in different ways. Being aware of the most common injuries and how they may present can help you recognize problems early and get the care you need.
Head Injuries
Head injuries often occur when a person hits the ground, walls, or objects during a fall. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Some incidents can cause bleeding within the brain, which requires immediate emergency care. Head trauma can have lasting effects on memory, balance, and daily functioning, making it vital to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect a head injury.
Symptoms may include:
- Dizziness, confusion, or feeling “foggy”
- Nausea or vomiting
- Persistent headache or pressure in the head
- Blurred or double vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Loss of consciousness or gaps in memory
- Trouble with balance or coordination
Broken and Fractured Bones
Falls can lead to fractures in many areas of the body, with wrists, arms, hips, and ankles being particularly susceptible. While some fractures are immediately obvious, others may be mistaken for sprains if not properly diagnosed. Severe breaks or fractures can require surgery, long rehabilitation, and may lead to permanent mobility issues.
Symptoms may include:
- Sudden, sharp pain at the site of impact
- Swelling, bruising, or warmth around the injured area
- Difficulty moving the limb or bearing weight on it
- Grinding, popping, or snapping sensations
- Visible deformity or bone protrusion (in extreme cases)
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
Spinal injuries can occur when the back absorbs the force of a fall, and often include herniated discs, nerve damage, or fractured vertebrae. If left untreated, spinal injuries can result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, or even paralysis in severe cases. Prompt diagnosis is critical for preventing long-term damage.
Many spinal cord injuries also involve the neck, often when a slip and fall results in a sudden or violent jolt. Neck injuries occur when the impact from a slip or fall damages the tissue of the neck. These can include injuries that affect soft tissues like ligaments, tendons, and muscles, or hard tissues like the bones of the spine that connect to the base of the neck.
Symptoms may include:
- Radiating pain in the neck, back, arms, or legs
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the limbs
- Stiffness or restricted movement in the back
- Difficulty standing, sitting, or walking without pain
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, torn ligaments, and bruises, are often overlooked because symptoms can appear hours or even days after a fall. Although they may seem minor initially, these injuries can limit mobility and lead to lasting discomfort if untreated.
Symptoms may include:
- Swelling or tenderness in the affected area
- Bruising or skin discolouration
- Muscle weakness or instability in the joint
- Reduced range of motion
- Pain that develops or worsens 24 to 48 hours after the fall
Cuts and Lacerations
Cuts and lacerations are commonly caused by falling against sharp objects, broken glass, or unsafe building materials. While they may look minor, deeper wounds can lead to significant blood loss, infection, nerve damage, or scarring. Some may even require stitches, surgery, or transfusions.
Symptoms may include:
- Heavy bleeding that does not stop with pressure
- Deep or gaping wounds
- Numbness around the wound
- Signs of infection, including redness, swelling, and warmth
Premises Liability in BC
Private and municipal property owners (and managers) have a legal responsibility to ensure that their premises are reasonably safe for visitors, established by the Occupiers Liability Act. Essentially, property owners have to take adequate measures to prevent and mitigate hazardous, injury-causing risks.
If you are injured due to unsafe conditions that a property owner should have known about or should have taken steps to resolve, the property owner may be considered negligent. In such cases, the law allows you to pursue compensation for the harm caused. The court analyzes factors such as:
- Foreseeability of the hazard: Was the dangerous condition something the property owner could reasonably have predicted?
Notice of the hazard: Did the owner know, or should they have known, about the unsafe condition? - Reasonable steps to prevent harm: Did the property owner take adequate precautions, such as posting warning signs, maintaining walkways, or repairing hazards promptly?
Contact a Dangerous Premises Lawyer
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident due to unsafe conditions, working with an experienced dangerous premises lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. The legal team at Stephens & Holman guides you through the claims process, gathers necessary evidence, and advocates on your behalf. Damages in a successful claim can cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in some cases, future care needs. Reach out to us today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.