You may be surprised to know how common slip and fall accidents are. They can occur when you are least expecting them and may leave you with unexpected injuries. These incidents can occur anywhere, be it public sidewalks or private businesses. While the severity of injuries may vary greatly, it is important to take the right steps immediately following a slip and fall. Doing so will enable you to safeguard your health and well-being.
That said, here are five essential steps you may take following a slip and fall accident.
Seek Medical Attention
As previously mentioned, slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, anytime, and due to a number of reasons. Common causes of slip and fall accidents comprise slipping and falling due to wet or slippery floors. Similarly, poor lighting in hallways, stairwells, or parking lots, faulty railings or stairs, obstacles like cords, debris, or boxes on walking paths, and inadequate snow or ice removal in wintery conditions are also some of the common reasons.
Regardless of why the accident occurred, your health should always be your foremost concern. Even if the injuries appear minor at first, pursuing medical attention right away is necessary. Some injuries, like head trauma or internal bleeds, may not have immediate symptoms. A doctor can thoroughly evaluate your condition, diagnose any injuries, and provide quick treatment to minimize complications and speed up healing.
Moreover, the medical records created during your visit will also serve as important documentation for any possible personal injury claim. These records will serve to create a link between your injuries and the accident, which can be important when seeking compensation for medical bills and other damages.
Report the Incident
Next, you must report the accident to the manager in charge, property owner, or a designated employee immediately. This step will create a record of the incident and ensure that the responsible party is aware of the situation. Also, be sure to request a copy of the accident report, as it can be valuable proof in case you decide to take legal action.
Document the Scene and Your Injuries
Gather evidence to support your claim by taking pictures and video of the scene of the accident, if possible. Focus on capturing the specific conditions that led to your slip and fall, such as wet floor, uneven surface, or poor lighting. Also, take pictures of your injuries to document their severity and the effect on your well-being. Consider including photographs of your shoes in the documentation process.
If there were any witnesses present at the time of the accident, make sure to obtain their contact information. Witness statements can serve as vital evidence in your personal injury claim and can help establish liability.
Avoid Discussing the Accident or Admitting Fault
Following an accident, it is normal if you wish to talk about and discuss what happened. However, it is important to be cautious about what you say, particularly with property owners, managers, or insurance representatives. Just stick to the facts when discussing the incident and avoid providing a recorded statement to the insurance company without first checking with your lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you later, so it is best to practice as much caution as possible.
Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
The legal aspects of a slip and fall accident claim can be rather complex. However, an experienced personal injury lawyer can help guide you through this process, safeguard your rights, and ensure you get compensation for your injuries that you rightfully deserve. Personal injury lawyers understand the complexities associated with premises liability law and can successfully negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Conclusion
Slip and fall accidents can affect your quality of life in several different ways. However, by following these steps, you can be better prepared to protect yourself and your rights after an unexpected fall.