NYC Slip & Fall Lawyers Discuss Recent Statistics and Tips to Prevent Injuries

Although older Americans may be more likely to suffer serious head traumas and broken bones when they fall, many younger people also struggle with bad falls explain NYC slip & fall lawyers at the . A Purdue University study found that over 50% of younger people often trip or fall. Of course, their big advantage is that after tripping, they can often recover their balance more swiftly and prevent a fall.

Not long ago, singer Carrie Underwood suffered a very bad fall on her property that made it necessary for her to obtain over 40 stitches. Americans of all ages really do need to work harder to avoid falls. Of course, many environmental and workplace hazards can contribute to this ongoing problem.

Perhaps due to the extra fall hazards posed by winter ice and snow, both The New York Times and NPR (National Public Radio) recently published articles addressing various fall risks. By carefully reviewing the following facts, tips and suggestions, all of us can minimize our risks of suffering bad falls.

What Current Statistics Reveal About Falling

• Thirty-two thousand (32,000) Americans die each year due to falls. That’s triple the death rate caused by gun violence;
• Adults who get the least amount of exercise tend to have higher fall rates;
• Only one older adult out of every three is likely to suffer a fall each year. This backs up the findings of several studies indicating that since they are more aware of fall risks, seniors may actually cautiously avoid more falls than many younger people. However, 8 million older Americans still annually request ER treatment after their falls;
• Workplace falls remain a very serious hazard. In fact, OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) reports that about thirty-eight percent (38%) of all workplace deaths are caused by falls. Constructions sites are especially dangerous for workers;
• Many younger people need to recognize the direct ties between alcohol and substance abuse with falls. No one earns a safety pass just because they’re out drinking or using different types of drugs. In fact, substance abuse may be one reason why so many young people struggle with serious fall injuries.

These sample facts and statistics clearly reveal that we all need to spend time learning to walk slower and keep our eyes focused on the sidewalks, ground or hallways that we must walk down every day.

What other steps can we take to lower our fall risks? We can each review the following tips and suggestions that can help many of us avoid these problems.

Proven Ways to Minimize Your Personal Fall Risks

• Slow down a bit and take smaller steps. You’re far more likely to trip on a rock, loose gravel or a crooked slab of concrete when you’re moving along at a fast pace;
• Consider taking a class in Tai Chi. Some healthcare experts suggest that once you master many of the balance techniques involved with this program, you’ll be better able to prevent bad falls;
• Before climbing higher to reach an object above you, consider all options. If someone taller isn’t available to help you, take the time to locate a safety stool since so many chairs and other items can easily tip over, causing you to fall;
• At home, wear slippers or shoes. Stubbing your toe is far too common for people who often go barefoot at home – and socks rarely help – unless they have nonslip grips underneath on the soles;
• Use handrails on staircases whenever they’re available. While it’s tempting for people of all ages to avoid using handrails – if you hold on tight, you can prevent a bad fall;
• Wear appropriate footwear outside. Never assume that high-heeled shoes or boots are a safe bet. Flat-soled shoes or weather-resistant, low-heeled boots are often the best safety choices when it’s cold, icy, wet or foggy outside;
• Take the time to make your bathroom area safe. Installing safety bars in your tub or shower can prove very useful. If you don’t live in a place with a handyman on duty, be willing to hire a repair expert for a small sum of money;
• Know ahead of time which pedestrian routes you’ll be taking. If you see a construction site, cross the street in a safe area and avoid passing these areas where broken glass and poorly maintained sidewalks can prove very dangerous;
• Have your eyesight checked regularly. Be ready to invest in new glasses when your doctor recommends the purchase;
• Consider learning new ways that some experts recommend that you respond to a fall in progress;
• Carry a small flashlight in your purse or briefcase. Use one whenever you must walk into any parking lot or enclosed garage area that has poor lighting;
• Never listen to music or talk on the phone while walking anywhere. YouTube has many videos of people who thought that nothing could distract them – right before they fall down a flight of steps or walked into an open-air fountain.

Should you ever suffer a serious fall on the job — or while walking across poorly maintained business property, obtain the medical care you need – and then immediately contact your New York personal injury attorney. We can help you fully investigate the facts of your case and determine if a lawsuit must be filed so we can try and obtain full compensation for all your injuries, medical expenses and lost earnings. Our experience often helps us obtain the maximum amount of damages available in many cases.