Slip and fall injuries can be frightening due to the complete lack of control experienced in losing one’s footing—even if just momentarily—as well as the potential for severe injury.

While a fall can cause major injuries to the back, neck, and hips, as well as causing broken bones and cuts, the traumatic brain injury is a common consequence and may cause serious long-term problems.

If you or a loved one slipped and fell due to the negligence of others, you may not have realized you had a TBI—or even a concussion—at first. Such injuries commonly occur in stairwells, areas where water collects or the lighting is too dim, as well as large retail areas, parking lots and garages, and more.

Even with such a severe jolt to the head, you could have a TBI that goes undetected for weeks or months simply because you don’t recognize the symptoms. Chances are though, you will not be feeling quite right and may be experiencing confusion as well as other problems. If you suspect a head injury because of a fall caused by the negligence of others, see a doctor immediately, and then consult with an experienced personal injury law firm like Heintz & Becker.

The TBI is usually classified as mild, moderate, or severe. While you may have fallen and don’t realize you have a head injury, family members or friends will probably notice that your behavior is unusual. Signs may include:

• Disorientation
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurred vision and dizziness
• Abrupt mood swings
• Loss of appetite

Even in the case of a mild TBI, you may have been unconscious for a short period of time. In a more serious case, you may have lost consciousness for a long period of time. Some may even go into a coma. Further symptoms of more serious TBIs include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Convulsions
• Trouble waking or being roused from sleep
• Difficulty speaking
• Lack of consciousness, either off and on or prolonged
• Combative behavior

Some of these symptoms could be the sign of a serious concussion too. Seeking the best medical care possible is priority. If you suspect your child may have sustained a brain injury due to the negligence of others in a slip and fall accident, make sure you contact an attorney experienced in handling child injury cases. Watch for some of the same symptoms listed above, but also any changes in eating habits, nursing, or increased periods of crying and irritability.

If you or a loved one have been injured due to the negligence of others, the attorneys at Heintz & Becker can help. We’ve helped victims from Bradenton, Sarasota, and all over Florida get compensation for their damages and medical expenses after slip and fall accidents. Call us for a free consultation now at 941-748-2916 or contact us online. We are here to help!

All blogs are written on behalf of Heintz & Becker for informational purposes. These articles should not, however, be considered legal advice, or in any way responsible for creating an attorney/client relationship.