Important FAQs about Slips and Falls

How serious is the problem?

In 2001, more than 1.6 million seniors were treated in emergency departments for fall-related injuries and nearly 388,000 were hospitalized.

Approximately 30% of all workers' compensation cliams result from a slip or fall.

Costs associated with slips and falls in the workplace is a growing problem, which results in millions of dollars in paid claims, increased insurance costs, and lawsuits.

The average slip and fall claim is $4,000. The average cost to defend against a slip and fall lawsuit is $50,000.

What outcomes are linked to falls?

Slips and falls account for over 1 million emergency room visits each year.

In 2001, more than 11,600 people ages 65 and older died from fall-related injuries. More than 60% of people who die from falls are 75 and older.

Of those who fall, 20% to 30% suffer moderate to severe injuries such as hip fractures or head traumas that reduce mobility and independence, and increase the risk of premature death.

Falls are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries.

Approximately 3% to 5% of older adult falls cause fractures. Based on the 2000 census, this translates to 360,000 to 480,000 fall-related fractures each year.

The most common fractures are of the vertebrae, hip, forearm, leg, ankle, pelvis, upper arm, and hand.

More than one-third of adults ages 65 years and older fall each year.

Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury deaths and the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma.