What Injuries Can Result From a Workplace Slip and Fall in FL?

For many, sustaining a slip and fall may result in nothing more than a bruised ego. However, in other instances, slips and falls can be incredibly serious, resulting in a number of injuries and subsequent damages. As such, if you suffered a slip, trip, or fall at your place of employment, understanding your legal rights in these matters is critical. The following blog explores some of the most common hazards that can lead to these accidents, as well as the importance of working with a Florida workers’ compensation attorney to help you navigate the complex process of filing a claim for the funds you are entitled to.

What Are Common Causes of a Workplace Slip and Fall?

Unfortunately, there are a considerable number of hazards that can result in a slip and fall that can occur in any workplace, from a hospital or government office to a construction site or retail store. Regardless, it’s imperative to understand some of the most common causes to help you recognize and avoid hazards when possible:

• Wet spots on the ground (from spills, leaks, cleaning, or rainy weather)
• Broken floorboards
• Debris or material on the ground
• Unsecured cords and wires
• Inadequate lighting
• Unanchored carpeting
• Loose tiles
• Unsafe stairs
• Missing handrails

What Injuries Can I Sustain as a Result?

In the event you are the victim of a slip and fall, there are a considerable number of injuries you can sustain as a result. While slips and falls may not seem serious, OSHA estimates that these cause around 700 workplace deaths annually.

One of the most common injuries you can sustain following a slip and fall in the workplace is a broken bone. When you slip, you may land on one of your limbs, and the weight of your body on the bone may be great enough to result in a break. This commonly impacts the wrists, as many people’s first instinct is to put their hands out to brace the fall.

You may also find that slips and falls can often lead to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). When you fall, you may hit your head multiple times, depending on how the fall occurs. For example, if you slip while restocking a shelf, you may strike your head on the way down, and then again on the floor. In some instances, the force of the fall can cause your head to bounce off the ground before it hits the floor again. Unfortunately, this can result in serious brain injuries.

Though broken bones and TBIs are among the most common injuries, you may also suffer neck and spinal cord damage, back injuries, soft tissue injuries, and even dental damage as a result of a slip and fall.

As you can see, these accidents can be incredibly severe and must be taken seriously. If you have sustained an injury as a result of a slip and fall in your place of work, it’s critical to connect with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer. At the Law Firm of Kevin A. Moore, our team understands the impact these injuries can have, which is why we are dedicated to fighting for you. When you need help, contact us to learn how we can fight for you.