September 16, 2024 | Slip and Fall
Slip and falls result in approximately one million emergency room (ER) visits in the U.S. each year (National Floor Safety Institute). While a slip and fall can happen to any person, there are some groups that face a significantly higher injury risk. Specifically, senior citizens and young children are more vulnerable to slip and fall injuries. Within this blog post, our Tulsa slip and fall attorney highlights the age groups that are most susceptible to injuries in these accidents.
The Two Age Groups that are Most Vulnerable to Slip and Fall Accidents
Every person should be aware of the risks of slip and falls. With that being said, there are two age groups in Oklahoma that are especially susceptible to being hurt in a slip and fall accident:
- Senior Citizens: Senior citizens are the age group that is most highly vulnerable to the risks of slip and fall accidents. The reason is primarily due to decreased balance and bone density that come with aging. Unfortunately, when an older adult is hurt in a slip and fall, there is a heightened risk of serious injuries—from hip fractures to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that around 38,000 American seniors are killed in fall accidents each year. It is imperative that businesses and organizations in Tulsa eliminate slip and fall hazards to protect elderly people.
- Young Children: Young children in Oklahoma are also susceptible to slip and fall accidents—though the reasons are obviously quite different. With naturally high levels of energy and inherent curiosity, young kids can end up in dangerous situations. Playgrounds, schools, and even home environments can present multiple risks if not properly maintained. Common slip and fall accident injuries for young kids in Oklahoma include cuts, bruises, broken bones, and concussions.
Slips and Trips Can Cause Terrible Injuries (Immediate Medical Care is a Must)
A slip and fall can be a very serious matter. Too often, slips and trips are underestimated as a safety risk. However, the reality is that these accidents can result in severe injuries—especially so for people in the more vulnerable age groups (senior citizens and young children). With any slip and fall accident injury. immediate medical attention is a must. Delaying care can lead to complications.
Note: If a person fails to see a doctor for a slip and fall accident, they will not be able to bring a personal injury claim. In Oklahoma, you need medical records to support your legal claim.
An Overview of Slip and Fall Accident Liability in Oklahoma
Slip and fall accident injury claims are covered by premises liability law. A business or property owner in Tulsa is not automatically liable for a slip and fall that happens on its premises. Instead, the victim must prove fault (negligence). Property owners have a legal duty to maintain a safe environment for visitors. If a property owner fails to address potential hazards that they were aware of, or should have been aware of, they can be held liable for any resulting injuries. Some examples of negligence that can contribute to slip and fall accidents in Tulsa include:
- Unmarked wet floors;
- Uncleaned spills;
- Loose debris in walking paths;
- Tattered carpeting;
- Broken floorboards; and
- Poor lighting in stairwells.
Recovering Compensation for a Slip and Fall
A slip and fall accident can cause serious injuries—especially to a vulnerable person such as a senior citizen or a young child. Following an accident caused by negligence, a business or property owner must be held accountable. Unfortunately, the insurance companies that defend premises liability cases—including most slip and fall accident claims—fight aggressively to pay out as little as possible. Our Tulsa slip and fall accident lawyers can make a difference. We put victims and families first. You or your loved one may be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Ambulance costs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Medical expenses;
- Physical therapy;
- Lost wages;
- Loss of earning power;
- Pain and suffering;
- Mental anguish;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death.
Contact Our Tulsa, OK, Slip and Fall Accident Attorney Today
At McGuire Law Firm, our Oklahoma slip and fall accident attorney fights tirelessly to protect victims and families. If you or your close loved one was hurt due to the negligence of a business or property owner, we can help. Contact us right away for your free, no-obligation case review. We handle slip and fall accident claims in Tulsa and throughout the entire region.