Preventing Falls Is Vital To Protecting Older Adults

On Behalf of | Oct 17, 2019 | Personal Injury |

For older adults, going to the doctor regularly, managing chronic health conditions, and taking proper safety precautions can all help to protect general health and quality of life. Unfortunately, falls are a potential problem and a leading cause of personal injuries, particularly among older adults. In addition to causing serious health complications, slip and fall accidents can actually end up hastening an early death. In honor of National Falls Awareness Day, we offer some tips to help you stay safe.

Preventing Slip and Fall Injuries

Fall Awareness Day is an annual event each September and is sponsored by the National Council on Aging (NCOA). A leading cause of death and disability among older adults, they can happen in a variety of situations. Injuries that often occur as a result include serious muscle and tendon strains, sprains, or tears, broken bones and dislocated joints, and debilitating back, neck, or head injuries.

Older adults can help to reduce their risks of slip and fall injuries by taking certain precautions at home. These include keeping clutter off-floors, replacing worn carpeting or flooring tiles, wearing non-skid shoes, and using anti-skid floor mats in bathtubs. However, falls often occur in public places, such as grocery stores, retail establishments, restaurants, office buildings, and other locations. Dangers to be aware of include:

  • Wet, slippery floors
  • Uneven walkways
  • Loose tiles
  • Cluttered aisles
  • Areas under construction
  • Unguarded heights
  • Steps or stairs without handrails
  • Places which are inadequately lighted

When Slip and Fall Accidents Occur

When slip and fall accidents do happen, it is often the result of the property owners negligence. Under the California Civil Code, they can be held responsible for failing to take actions to prevent injuries from occurring or for failing to warn visitors against potential dangers. You may be entitled to compensation either through an insurance claim or by filing a personal injury lawsuit. Damages may include:

  • Current and future medical expenses you incur, including diagnostic testing, treatments, follow-up care, medications, and medical devices, such as wheelchairs or walkers
  • Lost income and future losses in earnings and benefits, if you were previously working and are now unable to due to lingering disabilities
  • Pain and suffering, which includes the mental anguish caused by your injuries or the impact they have on your quality of life

Contact Our San Jose Attorneys Today for Help

At the Jachimowicz Law Group, we understand the serious impact slip and fall injuries can have on victims in the Bay Area, particularly older adults. At a time in your life where you should be enjoying a more relaxed lifestyle or time spent traveling and visiting friends and family, injuries can leave you sidelined, suffering a lack of mobility and ongoing pain.

As experienced San Jose slip and fall accident attorneys, we can help you hold responsible parties accountable. To discuss your rights in filing an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit, call 408-550-1732 or contact our skilled San Jose slip and fall accident attorneys online and request a free consultation today.