Every year, millions of Americans suffer slip and fall injuries. While many of these result in minor injuries, like cuts and bruises or a sprained ankle, falls can sometimes lead to severe injuries. They can even be fatal. As you get older, your risk for slipping and falling increases dramatically.
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Slip and fall accidents contribute to a number of injuries, especially among senior citizens. The CDC estimates that slip and fall incidents cause more than 95% of hip fractures. Furthermore, falls are the number one culprit of traumatic brain injuries. Such severe damages hospitalize more than 700,000 people each year. For individuals in the 76-84 age range, slips and falls are the second most common cause of injury-related deaths. Falls are also the main source of workers’ comp claims. Fatal falls in the workplace have increased 10% from 2013-2014.
Many factors contribute to slip and fall accidents, but some things exacerbate the risk. Here are few factors, coupled with premises safety hazards, that are responsible for countless injuries:
However, falls that result in fatality usually are a result of two or more of these risk factors. If someone you love suffered from any of the above conditions, and there was a hazard that led to a death, someone should be held responsible for neglected property or unsafe conditions.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to a slip and fall accident, you have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. Every state handles these differently; in Texas, for example, a surviving spouse, child, or parent of the deceased can file a claim. You can do this individually, or several relatives can file a joint claim.
Typically, you file personal injury damages for yourself and how an injury affected you. For a wrongful death suit, on the other hand, the claim addresses how the loss of a loved one impacts you. Damages usually include:
Texas also allows for exemplary or punitive damages. Courts use these to “punish” a party for gross negligence. While rare, this type of damage is possible in slip and fall cases where property owners were extremely irresponsible.
The Law Firm of Aaron A. Herbert, located in Dallas, has experience helping clients throughout Texas. We have experience in several areas of personal injury law, including slip and fall cases and wrongful death claims. Losing a loved one due to a slip and fall injury is heartbreaking, but you don’t have to deal with it alone.
Our attorneys are compassionate, competent, and willing to work for you. Our track record is exemplary, and we understand the injustice of negligence, especially if it results in death. We offer a free consultation and there is no fee or expense unless you recover. Contact us today to discuss your case. If you’re in the San Antonio area reach out to our San Antonio Slip and Fall lawyers.