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Falls Are a Leading Cause of Death Among Seniors

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When you think of how Americans die, you probably think of heart disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases, renal failure, and other chronic diseases. Most people don’t automatically think about accidental injuries like falls. However, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that roughly 29 million older adults fall each year. With a senior falling just about every second of every day, according to the CDC, nearly 27,000 die each year from injuries caused by falls. What’s more, many of these falls are preventable.

Who is Responsible for Senior Falls? 

When a senior falls, it’s often the consequence of a complex health condition that leaves the person with gait problems. But there are many situations where a fall is preventable and where a health provider or business may be responsible. If an older adult falls because of someone’s negligence, he or she may be able to seek financial compensation for the injuries. 

When is a Fall Preventable? 

Just because a person is elderly does not automatically mean they are going to fall. Rather, it just means they may need more precautions. Here are some examples of where a business or health care provider may be responsible for a fall:

  • Hospitals – When you are at a hospital, you have a right to expect that you will not get worse. You have a right to expect that the hospital staff will take the necessary steps to protect you from falls and further injury while under their care.
  • Nursing Homes – If a loved one is living in a Florida nursing home, you have a right to expect the staff to respond to call lights, use appropriate fall preventions, and take reasonable steps to prevent falls.
  • Businesses – Businesses, especially those that cater to seniors, need to take reasonable steps to make their premises safe for everyone. Rickety steps, broken handrails, slippery surfaces, wet floors without warnings, trip hazards, and other defects can all lead to serious falls.
  • Private Homes – Homeowners are responsible for making guests aware of hazards, especially defects that may not be readily apparent.

Protecting Your Rights After a Fall 

For seniors who suffer a fall due to someone else’s negligence, it is important to take the following quick steps to protect your rights.

  • Get emergency medical attention
  • Report your injury to management, supervisors, property owners, etc.
  • Follow your doctor’s recommendations for follow-up medical care
  • Contact an experienced Florida personal injury lawyer right away

Call Roman & Roman, P.A. 

If you or a loved one have suffered a fall and suspect someone else is responsible for your injuries, don’t just take chances on getting compensated. You may be incurring large medical bills, missing time from work, or suffering excruciating pain from the injuries. Fortunately, with the help of an experienced lawyer, you may be able to secure substantial financial compensation to help you get better and move on with your life.

Call or visit us online to schedule a confidential case consultation, and meet with one of our caring and knowledgeable Clearwater attorneys at Roman & Roman, P.A. today. You owe us nothing unless we are able to collect monetary compensation for you.

Resource:

cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/p0922-older-adult-falls.html

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