Some older people may be at greater risk of a slip-and-fall injury due to certain kinds of medication, health issues, and decreased balance. However, these conditions do not necessarily cause a slip-and-fall accident. A senior who has one or more risk factors can do many things to prevent a fall. But if the fall-related injury is due to someone else’s negligence, you might need to take action to address the consequences.
Elderly people who live in a nursing facility or an assisted living home can file an accident report with the management team. The report documents information like where and when the accident occurred, how it happened, the victim’s overall health, and any specific conditions, the names of witnesses, and other relevant information.
A slip-and-fall injury that occurs in public, such as on a sidewalk, can be reported to the local law enforcement officials. Falling in a public store, shop, or business office when the circumstances suggest the business caused or contributed to the accident can be reported to the company’s HR department or another office if applicable.
After a falling accident, the senior should be transported to the hospital or go to the doctor’s office for a complete checkup. Some injuries like bruises, scrapes, or broken bones can be seen and treated immediately. Others, like a blood clot or a concussion, may not show up right away without special tests or a follow-up visit. The senior may need to be observed for several hours or a few days to see if other injuries surface.
Following a slip-and-fall accident, the senior should write a personal account of what happened. In addition to any official report that was made, the individual’s narrative or chronology can help to clarify details about how the accident occurred. It can help with a friend or family member to discuss the accident and determine which details should be included.
When injuries have been noted and treated after a slip-and-fall accident, you may want to contact a personal injury attorney to discuss the situation. The attorney can explain the senior’s rights to compensation for the cost of any medical assessments and treatments of resulting injuries. An attorney who specializes in this area of law could also describe the litigation process for filing a claim, including the information that will be needed and the procedures to be followed.
Slipping and falling can cause serious injuries to older people. Consider the above steps for documenting and addressing slip-and-fall injuries that may qualify for compensation of medical costs and related expenses.
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