The more we have to go out into the world, the more dangers we’ll face. The key is not to be worried about it, but to be prepared and act safely. It also helps to know what to do and who to contact in the case of suffering a slip and fall injury yourself. Avoiding long-lasting, life-threatening, not to mention expensive injuries is a necessity. Here are five things you might not have known about slip and fall injuries.
Slip and Falls Can Cost $40,000
Hospital visits in the US are prohibitively expensive, to begin with, but adding an injury to the cost makes it increase exponentially. The average total cost of medical treatment for a slip and fall injury can be anywhere from $30,000 to $48,000, or more, depending on your circumstances.
Slip and Falls Result in One Million Emergency Room Visits Yearly
Especially seeing as emergency rooms are increasingly unsafe due to exposure, the last place you want to be on a given day is a hospital emergency room. Not only can it be unsafe, but it can cost an astronomical amount, especially if you add on the cost of an ambulance ride. Staying safe and keeping floors clean and dry and clear of obstacles is always your best bet for preventing slip and fall injuries.
Slip and Falls Affect All Ages
While one-third of adults over the age of 65 are likely to fall, slip and fall injuries affect all age groups, simply because the world is full of obstacles, and we may have medical situations that affect our balance. Don’t assume that you’re out of the woods based simply on your youth – safety is important at any age.
Most Common to Cause Brain Injury: Slip and Falls
Honestly, learning to fall safely is not a bad idea, and there are professionals who can teach you how to do this. It would be hugely beneficial to you to avoid any sort of brain damage, which is most commonly caused by a slip and fall injury. It’s not always a matter of balance, especially once you’ve fallen over. Learning to even out weight distribution and protect your head are the keys to falling safely.
Most Common Hip Fractures Are from Slip and Falls
Hip fractures and other hip injuries are too commonly and erroneously associated with old age. Hip injuries can happen to anyone, so avoiding slips and falls and knowing to get medical attention right away if you do have a slip and fall injury is critical to your health. Always keep doorways clear and try to be a conscientious walker, even if you think you already know the layout of where you are like the back of your hand.
Summary
Safety is paramount, even when you’re alone. If you own a business, make sure your floors are maintained, dry and spill-free. If you’re somewhere unfamiliar, always take the safest route to avoid injury. If you are injured, be sure to get medical attention urgently.
