Who Is Most At Risk for a Slip and Fall?

Slips and falls are among the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBI), bone fractures, soft tissue damage and other physical injuries. While anyone can slip and fall, some individuals are at greater risk than others. Unfortunately, while knowing your (or a family member’s) level of risk can help you mitigate this risk in some cases, there are still many factors that will be beyond your control.

5 Categories of Individuals Who are At Greater Risk for Slips and Falls

So, who is most at risk of being injured in a slip-and-fall accident? Some of the most at-risk populations include:

1. Children

Children face increased risks for two main reasons. First, children are more likely to engage in activities that are likely to result in falls. Whether playing on the playground or running down the steps, children face fall risks in many, if not most, of their day-to-day activities. Second, since children are still growing, their bodies—and their bones in particular—are more susceptible to trauma than those of young and middle-aged adults. For example, greenstick fractures are particularly common among children, and these injuries occur because children’s bones have not yet developed their full strength.

2. Older Adults

As we age, our bodies begin to deteriorate, and this increases our risk of injury in the event of a slip and fall. Loss of muscle strength, bone density and coordination also increases older adults’ risk of falling. For those who live in nursing homes, inadequate care, support and facility maintenance are all factors that present an increased risk for fall-related injuries as well.

3. Individuals with Certain Medical Conditions

Individuals who have certain medical conditions can also be at greater risk of suffering injuries in slip-and-fall injuries. Some examples of these medical conditions include:

• Cognitive impairments
• Inner ear injuries (which can cause poor balance)
• Osteoarthritis
• Traumatic injuries
• Vision impairments

4. Individuals Who Take Certain Medications

Before taking any medication, it is important to read the label and identify any potential side effects. Medications that have the potential to cause fainting, lightheadedness, low blood pressure, fatigue, loss of balance and other impairments can all significantly increase a person’s risk of slipping and falling.

5. Individuals Who Work in Certain Occupations and Environments

Working in certain occupations and environments can also significantly increase a person’s risk. This includes occupations such as construction and nursing—in which employees spend most of their day on their feet—as well as potentially dangerous work environments such as construction sites, hospitals, restaurants, office buildings, recreational and entertainment venues, and stores.

Schedule a Free Consultation about Your Slip and Fall Case in Pennsylvania

The lawyers at Drake, Hileman & Davis, PC help individuals and families recover just compensation after slip and fall accidents in Pennsylvania. If you or a loved one has slipped and fallen under circumstances in which you believe someone else may be responsible, we encourage you to call 888-777-7098 or contact us online for a free consultation. Our offices are conveniently located in Allentown, Bethlehem, Doylestown, Easton and Stroudsburg.