Slip and fall accidents can happen in a split second, but they can leave a trail of destruction in their wake if the injuries sustained are serious.

These accidents can cause severe damage like traumatic brain injury, neck and spinal damage, compound fractures to the extremities, hip and pelvic fractures, disfigurement due to facial and dental injuries etc.

The severity of injury is determined by a number of factors that include:

• Age and general health
• Location
• Height from which the fall occurred
• Type of surface

Falling from an elevation obviously leads to more severe injuries and these can result in long term or permanent disability.

Injured persons and their families have to endure the physical, financial and emotional consequences of the accident. The victim may be unable to work for extended periods or may lose working  and earning capacity altogether. There are high medical and rehabilitation expenses to be met. The pain and suffering undergone by all those connected to the person can also take an emotional toll.

Accidents are rarely accidental. They’re usually caused by someone’s fault or negligence. Property owners have a duty to ensure that premises under their control are kept in a state of reasonable safety and any breach of this responsibility makes them liable to pay compensation to those injured as a result.

Consult an experienced Ottawa personal injury lawyer who handles similar cases as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation.

Depression and Disability

Studies have shown that disability generates negative feelings that could result in clinical depression. Apart from the emotional symptoms of feeling worthless, sad and without hope, depression has a physical component too – the person can suffer fatigue, loss of/increased appetite, digestive problems, sleep disorders, etc. They may also develop dependence on alcohol or drugs.

Disability suffered in adulthood or among the recently disabled creates negative feelings of self-worth, withdrawal from social and emotional connections, lack of interest in the environment around due to limited mobility and a feeling of being dependent on others. Such persons have clear memories of being able, capable and independent. They find it hard to accept their present limitations and condition.

Common feelings include:

• Inability to concentrate or make simple decisions
• Loss of purpose or goals in life
• Inability to think beyond the present condition
• Loss of self-worth and self-esteem
• Grief and rage at the cause of the accident
• Frustration with inability to work, move or continue normal life
• Decrease in quality of life
• Boredom due to lack of social interaction
• Pessimism and suicidal thoughts

Family, friends and those around the injured person need to watch out for tell-tale signs of depression and ensure that it is addressed immediately.

Psychological or psychiatric counseling and treatment may be required, based on the needs of the injured victim.

Such treatments can be expensive and lengthy. Victims need to be treated by a qualified and licensed professional. An experienced Ottawa personal injury lawyer can help you find the right professional to handle such issues and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.