Why Are Falls and Car Crashes More Likely to Injure the Elderly?

 Posted on January 28, 2025 in Personal Injury

Falls are a leading cause of injuries to elders, and some of these accidents lead to death. Pedestrian and car accidents are also likely to cause significant injuries, often worse than what a younger person would sustain in the same circumstances. Although elders may be more vulnerable, they still deserve full compensation if someone else’s negligence caused their injuries.

Why are senior citizens likely to experience more severe injuries? What is the eggshell plaintiff rule? Working with a Glenview, IL personal injury attorney who knows the answers to those questions can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Why Are the Elderly More Vulnerable to Injuries?

As we age, our bodies change. Many of these changes make older individuals more likely to sustain serious injuries in accidents that would not have significantly harmed them in earlier years. Muscle loss and weakness, declined bone density, vision impairment, and trouble with balance make bodies more fragile. Many older adults also take medications for various conditions, and these medications can increase the risk of causing a car accident as well as complications from accident-related injuries.

According to the Illinois Department of Health, an older adult dies every 20 minutes in the U.S. as a result of a fall. In 2020, almost 400,000 older adults fell at least once in Illinois. Common injuries from falls sustained by the elderly include broken bones, particularly hips, wrists, and shoulders. Head and traumatic brain injuries are also frequently sustained. Whether as a driver or a passenger, elders involved in car crashes may also experience more severe injuries than a younger person would due to the same risk factors.

In some cases, an older person’s body just may not be able to handle the stresses of the injuries. They may need more intensive medical treatments and ongoing assistance, which can be costly.

If another party’s negligence caused the injuries, a personal injury claim can provide damages to cover these costs and other losses. However, liable insurance companies may try to argue that the victim’s vulnerability means a lower payout is justified. That is when a knowledgeable attorney will remind insurers about the eggshell plaintiff rule.

What Is the Eggshell Plaintiff Rule?

Whether an injury was caused by a nursing home fall, a car crash, falling in a store, or another type of accident, the elderly individual’s vulnerability should not be a consideration when determining the amount of compensation owed. The eggshell plaintiff rule asserts that an at-fault party is fully liable for injuries caused, regardless of the victim’s fragility.

Without an attorney who understands this rule and how to argue effectively against insurers who do not follow it, you are unlikely to get the full amount of compensation you are entitled to. When you entrust Gruzmark Law, Ltd. with your case, we will fight to help you obtain maximum compensation.

Discuss Your Case With a Skilled Northbrook, IL Elderly Injuries Attorney

At Gruzmark Law, Ltd., we understand how significantly injuries can affect an elderly person’s quality of life. One of our experienced Cook County, IL personal injury lawyers will pursue the highest available amount of compensation for you. Arrange for your free case review online or by calling 847-729-7660 today.