Falls can happen to anyone, at any time, but when they occur in a public place, it can be especially worrisome. There are a few things you need to know to ensure your safety and wellbeing if you should fall in a public place. Take a look at the advice below:

Consult a personal injury lawyer

If you or someone you love has been injured in a fall, you may be wondering if you need a personal injury lawyer. The answer depends on many factors, including the severity of the injuries, the circumstances surrounding the fall, and who is at fault.

If the fall was due to someone else’s negligence, then you may have a case for compensation. A personal injury lawyer can help you investigate the incident, gather evidence, and build a strong case. They can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

If you’re not sure whether or not you need a personal injury lawyer, it’s always best to consult with one. They can help you understand your legal rights and options, and they can give you the peace of mind of knowing that you’re making the best decision for yourself and your family.

Common causes of falls

Falls are a leading cause of injuries and death in the United States. According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries. Each year, more than 2.8 million people visit emergency departments because of fall-related injuries.

There are many potential causes of falls. Some common causes include:

– Slippery or Wet floors

– Uneven or broken paving

– Loose carpeting or flooring

– Cluttered floors

– Poor lighting

– Stairs without handrails

The risk of slipping and falling significantly increases during the winter months when snow and ice covers the ground. Before heading out of the house, check the weather to determine how risky it might be.

How to help someone who has fallen

First, try to move them to a safe area away from the fall site. If they can’t move, stay where you are and call for help. If there are bystanders, ask them to call for an ambulance. If they’re injured, try to keep them calm and still until help arrives. Apply pressure to any bleeding wounds if possible, and remember that distal pulse is a critical factor in bleeding emergencies. This means that there should be no pulse at all in the distal pulse points (wrists and ankles) after a tourniquet is applied to ensure no further bleeding can occur. Once medical help has arrived, follow their instructions and let them know their symptoms. If they are feeling dizzy, nauseous, or have any other concerning symptoms that prevents them from talking, let the medical professionals know so they can provide appropriate care.

How to avoid falls

1. Pay attention to your surroundings.

Be aware of your surroundings and look out for potential hazards, so put your phone away and look at where you’re putting your feet.

2. Use caution when walking on slippery surfaces.

Wet or icy pavements can be very dangerous. Use extreme caution when walking on these surfaces and stick to gritted areas where possible.

3. Wear appropriate shoes.

Wearing shoes with good traction can help prevent slips and falls. Don’t wear high heels or dress shoes if it’s snowing!!

4. Use handrails.

When available, use handrails to help keep you steady on your feet. If none are available, ask someone for their arm.

5. Use a stick.

If you need one, you should always use your walking stick, and use it properly. There’s no point in having it if you’re not using it to help you!

6. Take your time.

Rushing can increase your risk of falling, so take your time and be careful. Don’t run if it increases your risk of falling.

7. Ask for help if needed.

If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask. It’s better to ask for help than to risk a fall, and there’s no shame in needing a helping hand.

These are just a few tips to help prevent falls in public places. Paying attention and using caution should help in most scenarios, but in seriously dicey conditions, it’s probably best to turn around and head home!

Conclusion

It’s important to remember when out and about in public that there are many hazards around us that we need to be aware of. Whilst many public spaces are safe for everyone to use, there may be the occasional time where a railing is missing, a paving slab has broken or a floor is wet and slippy. In these situations, great care should be taken to avoid causing injury to yourself. If you do suffer an injury as a result of falling in a public place, however, it’s good to remember that you may be able to claim compensation, so make sure you understand your legal rights before heading out of the house today!