Top Five Causes Of Personal Injuries
By their nature, accidental injuries tend to occur when you least expect them. In the span of a moment, a chance interaction can leave you suffering serious and potentially life threatening harm. Often caused by the reckless actions of others, you cannot always prevent personal injuries from occurring. But you can take steps to help reduce your risks. The following are five of the most common causes of personal injuries to be aware of.
1. Slips And Falls
According to hospital emergency department records compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), slips and falls are the leading cause of accidental, unintentional personal injuries in the U.S. These often occur in public places, such as in grocery stores, shopping malls, or in office buildings. They can be caused by wet or slippery floors, damaged carpeting or tile, and blocked hallways and entrances. While the temptation may be to brush off a fall or attribute it to your own clumsiness, the fact is that they can lead to severe and potentially disabling conditions for which property owners may be held accountable.
2. Being Struck By Or Against An Object
These types of accidents can cause multiple fractures, internal injuries, and severe head trauma. Similar to slips and falls, they often occur in public places. Loose lighting fixtures, unstable objects on shelving units, and debris in construction areas are all common causes. Again, property owners can be held liable for the medical expenses you suffer, along with any temporary or permanent losses in income that result.
3. Overexertion
A common type of on the job injury, overexertion can also occur when engaged in sports and recreational activities. Particularly in areas such as South Carolina where summer temperatures can rise to extremes, it is important for coaches and recreational staff to provide the proper training, along with plenty of rest, water, and shade.
4. Motor Vehicle Accidents
While fourth on the CDC’s list, motor vehicle accidents involving drivers, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians are a leading cause of injury and death in South Carolina. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), more than 230 people died in these accidents during 2017, while thousands of others suffered serious personal injuries.
5. Unintentional Cuts/Piercings
The CDC reports that accidental cuts and piercings are responsible for more than two million hospital emergency room visits each year. In addition to negligent property owners who fail to address areas with broken glass or sharp metal surfaces, these types of injuries are often the result of dangerous products. Always read warning labels first before using any type of tool or machinery, and follow all of the manufacturer's safety instructions.
Contact Us Today for Help
Despite taking the appropriate precautions, accidental injuries can still occur. In these situations, our Aiken, SC personal injury attorneys are here to help. Reach out and contact the Surasky Law Firm, LLC for a consultation to discuss your injuries and the compensation you may be entitled to.
