Slip and fall accidents—whether they occur in grocery stores, big box stores, malls, or apartment complexes—can be serious incidents. When people fall, they often hit their heads on the ground or other hard objects. Even if the fall seems minor and embarrassing at the moment, slip and fall accidents that involve head injuries can actually cause life-long issues such as behavioral problems, personality changes, emotional issues, and cognitive problems.
When a fall results in nausea, confusion, coordination issues, headaches, seizures, vision issues, or slurred speech, it is likely that a head injury occurred. Even if you only experience one of these symptoms after a fall, it is important to see a doctor for a medical evaluation since head injuries can range from minor to disabling.
Types of Head Injuries that Occur in Slip and Fall Accidents
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Contusion. When direct trauma to the head occurs in a fall, the brain can suffer a bruise, which essentially causes bleeding on the brain. While some brain contusions can be minor, others can be quite severe and may need to be surgically removed.
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Concussion. This type of head injury occurs from a jolt or blow to the head. A concussion is often considered a minor injury, but it is actually a type of traumatic brain injury that can cause someone to suffer significantly. Even “light” concussions can be complicated by slow healing, significant medical costs, and lost income. More serious concussions can permanently affect brain function.
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Hematoma. Brain hematomas occur when a blow to the head in a slip and fall accident causes damage to the brain’s outer blood vessels. A hematoma is essentially a blood clot that presses on brain tissue. If the pressure is not relieved, a hematoma can lead to lost brain function.
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Closed head injury. With this type of brain injury, the skull is left intact but the brain is impacted from bruised brain tissues, torn blood vessels, pressure within the skull, or swelling in the brain. Consequently, brain damage can occur that can lead to life-long problems.
If you or a loved one suffered any type of head trauma in a slip and fall accident, you may be a victim of someone’s negligent actions and may have rights to pursue a premises liability claim. To discuss the details of your case, please contact us online or call our office at 800.362.9329.
