Options If an Elderly Parent Suffers Serious Fall Injuries

 Posted on September 08, 2023 in Premises Liability

Every 20 minutes in the United States, a fall causes injuries to the elderly, and unfortunately many die from those injuries. As this group continues to age and grow, so does the number of people who are susceptible to fall-related injuries. Falls are a threat to the health of older adults because a bad fall can reduce their ability to remain independent. However, if you or your loved one suffered a slip, trip, or fall due to someone else’s negligence, an Illinois attorney can help.

Why Is a Fall So Dangerous for Elderly People?

One out of five falls cause a severe injury that can include broken bones or hip fractures.

Head injuries are the most serious especially if the person is taking blood thinners. An older person who falls and hits their head should see their doctor right away to make sure they do not have a brain injury.

What Kind of Slip and Fall Accidents Could Lead to a Lawsuit?

Trip-and-fall and slip-and-fall accidents can happen for various reasons commonly referred to as premises liability claims. For example, if you are shopping at a grocery store and you slip on spilled laundry detergent, breaking your wrist, determining negligence is not always easy, only an experienced attorney can help. If the store knew about the spill and it had been there for hours, they are likely responsible for your injury. But if the spill happened just before you walked into the store and no one had time to clean it up or tell anyone, it is less likely the store is to blame. Here are some common problems that could also lead to these slip, trip, and fall accidents:

 Wet floors, spilled liquids, and freshly mopped floors

• Uneven carpeting, tiles, floors, concrete, or paved walkways
• Improperly maintained steps or staircases
• Accumulation of ice or snow
• Inadequate lighting
• Broken or missing handrails

What Can I Do To Get Compensation for Injuries?

If you or someone you care about gets hurt from slipping, tripping, and falling, you may have a chance to get money from the property owner where it happened. Here are some things you need to show to receive the compensation:

 Dangerous – There must have been something risky or unsafe on the property.

• Owner's Responsibility – The owner should have had a duty to keep you safe on their property; this usually means you had permission to be there.
• Owner's Knowledge – The owner either knew about this dangerous thing or should have known about it.
• No Action Taken – If the owner did not do anything to fix the problem or warn people about it
• Injuries or Losses – You need to prove you got hurt or had measurable losses because of this dangerous thing.
• Cause of Injuries – You have to show that the dangerous thing was the main reason you got hurt.

 These cases can be tricky because a lot of factors come into play. That is why it is often a good idea to have an attorney who will look into your accident, gather all the important details, and build a strong case to get you the compensation you deserve.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Northbrook Slip, Trip, and Fall Lawyer

At Gruzmark Law, Ltd. we understand how serious injuries to the elderly can be. You should not be denied the opportunity to seek compensation in cases of injury caused by another person's negligence. A Cook County personal injury attorney can help. Call 847-729-7660 for free consultation.