Tripping and falling is almost an everyday occurrence for most people. We just stand up, dust ourselves off, and go about our day—at most a little sore and embarrassed. However, for some unlucky individuals, these commonplace sidewalk accidents in New York City caused by holes and broken pavement can cause serious injuries, and shouldn’t be taken so lightly.
At-Risk Populations Suffer Most
While perfectly healthy individuals can suffer fractures and other serious injuries, it is the at-risk populations that are the most prone to suffering serious injuries in trip-and-fall accidents caused by holes and cracks in the sidewalks in New York City. These populations include:
· The Elderly
According to statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), elderly individuals are the most likely to suffer serious injuries such as hip fractures and head trauma from falls. They are also 20%-30% more likely to suffer those falls compared to younger people.
· The Disabled
Individuals with mobility issues caused by previous injuries, strokes, and other medical conditions such as partial paralysis, or birth defects are also at much higher risk of suffering serious injury after stepping into a hole in a sidewalk than an average New Yorker.
· Overweight Individuals
Individuals who are overweight are also at much higher risk of serious injury simply because their body mass contributes to the amount of force they absorb during a fall. Research has shown that these individuals take significantly longer to heal from wounds than “average” weight people.
Serious Trip-and-Fall Injuries
Not every trip and fall injury suffered in a defective sidewalk accident in New York City is as minor as a skinned palm or twisted ankle. There well documented cases of victims suffering serious injuries such as fractures, torn tendons and ligaments along with head trauma.
That’s why every injury should be treated seriously. After a fall, contact an experienced sidewalk accident attorney in New York City without delay. The legal team at the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel can help. Call 800-734-9338 or 212-385-1122 today for your free consultation.