Slip and Fall Lawyer
Experiencing a slip and fall accident can be disorienting and overwhelming. However, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your well-being, gather evidence, and ensure you have the necessary information to pursue a potential personal injury claim. Here’s a guide on what to do after a slip and fall accident from a slip and fall lawyer with our friends at MartinWren, P.C.:
Seek medical attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Assess yourself for any injuries and seek medical attention, even if you feel fine initially. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal injuries, may not exhibit immediate symptoms. Prompt medical evaluation creates a record of your injuries, which can be crucial for insurance claims or legal actions. It is best not to try and move yourself immediately — wait for medical personnel to arrive.
Report the incident: If the slip and fall accident occurs on someone else’s property, immediately report the incident to the property owner, manager, or supervisor. Request that they create an incident report detailing what happened. Obtain a copy of the report for your records.
Document the scene: Preserve evidence by taking photographs or videos of the accident scene. Capture images of the area where the incident occurred, including any hazards or dangerous conditions that contributed to the slip and fall. Document the lighting, flooring, signage, and any other relevant details that can support your claim. Be sure to do this before you leave the scene as some people may try to alter things so it looks like there was never an obstacle.
Gather information: Collect contact information from any witnesses present at the scene. Their statements may be valuable in establishing liability. Additionally, obtain the contact information of the property owner or manager, as well as any employees who witnessed the accident.
Preserve physical evidence: If there are any physical objects or substances that contributed to your fall (e.g., loose tiles, spilled liquids), try to preserve them if it is safe to do so. If you cannot preserve the exact item, take photographs or note its description. This evidence can help establish the cause of the accident. Make sure to have others document these too such as the medical personnel looking you over or the police if they are called.
Document your injuries and losses: Keep a record of all medical treatment you receive, including doctor visits, tests, medications, and rehabilitation. Retain copies of medical bills, receipts, and any related expenses. Additionally, document the impact of the injuries on your daily life, such as missed workdays, changes in your routine, or any pain and suffering experienced.
Notify your insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the slip and fall accident as soon as possible. Provide them with a clear and detailed account of the incident. Follow their instructions and cooperate fully during the claims process. It is best to do this with the help of a lawyer to ensure they will accept your claim.
Consult with a personal injury attorney: If you have sustained significant injuries or believe that the property owner’s negligence caused your accident, it is advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney. An experienced attorney can evaluate the strength of your case, guide you through legal proceedings, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and help you seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Remember, each slip and fall accident is unique, and the steps to take may vary depending on the circumstances. If you have concerns about your case or need specific legal advice, consult with an attorney who specializes in personal injury law near you for help immediately.