Though they may often seem like minor events, slip and fall accidents can result in traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can cause life-long impact. Those who suffer TBIs may require long-term support to help manage the physical, emotional, and cognitive effects of their condition, not to mention medical bills and lost wages. When serious injuries are caused by the negligence of others, the brain injury lawyers of the Salamati Firm are here to help you and your loved ones through the process of litigation and to recover maximum compensation. We aggressively represent clients throughout California in both state and federal courts, while at the same time making sure that our clients are fully informed and engaged throughout every stage of the lawsuit.
Can you get a traumatic brain injury from a slip and fall?
Slip and fall injuries are often downplayed in society, such as by being portrayed by a cartoon-like slip on a banana peel. The reality is that slip and fall accidents lead to more than 1.3 million brain injuries. In fact, slips and falls are the cause of nearly half of all brain injuries in this country.
No one is immune from the potentially serious effects of a slip and fall. Falls are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries among old and young alike, from infants to the elderly.
Effects of brain injuries caused by slip and fall
The effect of a head injury caused by a slip and fall should never be underestimated. Moderate or severe brain injury can lead to reduced cognitive ability, emotional impairment, and physical disability. Even mild TBI can cause migraines, confusion, nausea, dizziness, and other effects.
Unfortunately, those who suffer head injuries often underestimate the severity. The full effects are not always apparent right after the injury and it is all too common for patients to skip follow up medical appointments. These follow-ups are crucial in understanding and treating the full spectrum of TBI symptoms.
Conditions leading to slips and falls
Proving liability in any slip and fall injury will require an investigation into the cause. In California, a personal injury claimant must be able to show that a defendant either caused, knew, or reasonably should have known about a dangerous condition, and failed to fix it or warn those who enter the premises.
Some of the hazards that we often see include:
- Loose flooring materials like tile, carpeting, or mats
- Ice or water
- Uneven surfaces
- Oily or greasy substances
- Electrical cords
- Clutter
It is a good idea to take photos of the area after a fall, and also obtain the contact information for any witnesses.
Who may be liable for a slip and fall TBI?
In CA, an owner or occupier of property or someone who breached a duty to maintain the property may be held accountable if they acted negligently or recklessly led to the victim’s injuries.
Most often, we see slip and fall injuries occurring on commercial or public property, such as at the many shopping outlets and tourist attractions found around Southern California. In these cases, liability often rests with the commercial landlord tasked with maintaining the property, the tenant who has day-to-day control, or even maintenance crews that are responsible for keeping the premises safe. Whoever’s carelessness led to the injury, our team works with the experts needed to hold the negligent party responsible.
How to identify a brain injury after a slip and fall
It is supremely important not to overlook signs of a traumatic brain injury after a fall. Some signs, like loss of consciousness, may be obvious. Other signs, like momentary confusion, daze, or disorientation, may be more easily overlooked. Some other signs to keep watch for include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Ringing in the ears
- Problems with memory or concentration
- Mood swings
If you or someone close to you experiences a blow to the head, visit a doctor as soon as possible. Even if the impact did not seem severe, be on the lookout for symptoms like these and follow through with the doctor’s recommendations for follow-up care.
Recovering for a Los Angeles slip and fall TBI
What seems like a minor slip or fall can lead to major medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses. Under California law, if someone else’s negligence was at fault for your fall, you may be entitled to pursue a claim for damages. Speak with an LA slip and fall lawyer at Salamati Law to find out whether you may be eligible for compensation.
Our Southern California traumatic brain injury lawyers understand what an impact a TBI can have on your life and are here help you prove your slip and fall case. We are proud to serve clients throughout California and we always fight for maximum compensation. Call today to schedule a free consultation. We never charge a fee unless we secure compensation on your behalf.
