Winter is here, which means the risk of slipping and falling on an icy walkway will substantially increase, especially if property owners are not careful in making these areas reasonably safe. Although some of the most common injuries associated with slip and fall accidents are broken bones, sprains, and cuts, it is also possible for one to sustain a concussion or traumatic brain injury. Unlike cuts, bruises, and broken bones, the consequences of a head injury are not as ephemeral and, in fact, can last for many years to come.
The Long-Term Effects of a Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injuries are not always accompanied by immediate symptoms. However, that does not necessarily mean the injury is not serious or that it cannot result in health complications later on. A serious traumatic brain injury can increase one’s chances of developing a neurodegenerative disease, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. Additionally, one might also experience changes in mood, including depression or anxiety.
Common signs and symptoms associated with this injury include:
- Difficulty concentrating or problems with memory
- Severe mood swings
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Issues with speech
- Headaches or migraines
- Sensory problems, including ringing in ears and blurry vision
Recently Morgan & Murphy successfully settled a slip and fall on ice case where our client sustained a concussion. He initially thought he would be OK after a few weeks, but concussion symptoms such as headaches, tinnitus and forgetfulness eventually forced him to leave work more than 2 years after the accident. We obtained neuropsychological evidence that the residual effects of the concussion caused his disability and obtained a $125,000 settlement at mediation.
What Should I Do After a Slip and Fall Accident?
People often try to brush off slip and fall accidents and assume they are the result of clumsiness. However, you could have a viable premises liability case on your hands. Instead of walking away from the scene with serious injuries, do what you can to ensure you receive the compensation you need to recover.
Here are some steps you should take in the aftermath of a slip and fall accident on an icy walkway:
- Seek medical attention, even if you do not think you are seriously injured. Injuries, such as concussions, do not always produce symptoms right away. Failing to see a doctor can complicate things when you seek to file a claim.
- If there were any witnesses, obtain their contact information and find out what they saw.
- Report the accident to the property owner.
- Take pictures of the scene to document the dangerous condition that led to your accident. You should also take pictures of your injuries if they left any visible markings.
- Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and the best course of action.
Speak to an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Today!
Slip and fall accidents are not as minor as they might sound and, during the winter, they are far too commonplace. If you sustained an accident due to dangerous conditions on someone else’s property, reach out to the team at Morgan & Murphy, LLP for the skilled legal representation you need to navigate this process. Our personal injury attorneys have more than 80 years of combined legal experience, so you can rest assured your case will be in good hands with our knowledgeable and compassionate team.
Contact our law office today at (508) 966-7254 to discuss the details of your slip and fall accident case with us during a free case evaluation. Our team is available 24/7 to take your call!