Is it possible for a subject to sustain injuries from falling even if there are no visible effects at contact?

Is it possible for a subject to sustain injuries from falling even if there are no visible effects at contact?

• A. Yes, injuries from falling can occur
• B. No, injuries cannot occur without visible contact effects
• C. Only if the subject is standing on ice
• D. Only if the device is used for more than 10 seconds

Answer: (A)

Injury risk from a fall after exposure to a CEW exists even if you don't see effects at the contact point. A stun can cause rapid, temporary loss of balance, disorientation, or a brief spike in muscle activity that knocks a person off their feet. When that happens, hitting the ground or nearby objects can cause injuries such as head, neck, or back trauma, sprains, or fractures—even if there are no noticeable marks at the contact site. The absence of visible contact effects doesn’t mean the individual is safe from harm—the fall itself is a separate injury mechanism. Other factors like the surface or environment can influence the severity of injuries from a fall, but the possibility remains regardless of surface type or the duration of contact. This is why, after exposure, it’s important to assess for injuries and ensure scene safety, rather than assuming no harm if no markings are visible.

Injury risk from a fall after exposure to a CEW exists even if you don't see effects at the contact point. A stun can cause rapid, temporary loss of balance, disorientation, or a brief spike in muscle activity that knocks a person off their feet. When that happens, hitting the ground or nearby objects can cause injuries such as head, neck, or back trauma, sprains, or fractures—even if there are no noticeable marks at the contact site. The absence of visible contact effects doesn’t mean the individual is safe from harm—the fall itself is a separate injury mechanism.

Other factors like the surface or environment can influence the severity of injuries from a fall, but the possibility remains regardless of surface type or the duration of contact. This is why, after exposure, it’s important to assess for injuries and ensure scene safety, rather than assuming no harm if no markings are visible.