Yes. It’s sad but true! Most people will suffer a slip, trip, and fall accident at one point in their life. Even worse, the accident may not be their fault at all.
Since a slip, trip, and fall accident can happen to anyone at any time, it is important to know the steps to take after a fall. This is very true in cases where another person or party is at fault.
Legally, homes, buildings, walkways, and parking bays must be maintained in a way that they’re safe to travel on. This responsibility is known as premises liability. This liability empowers victims to seek financial compensation to cater for medical bills, pain, and suffering, and lost earnings from the liable party.
If you or someone you love suffers an injury from a slip and fall accident, it’s important to note that the steps you take can make or break your case.
Here are the primary steps to take after a slip and fall accident.
1. Seek Medical Attention
Your health and that of your loved ones should be the priority after a slip, trip, and fall accident. If you’ve been hurt, seek immediate treatment from a reputable doctor. This also helps to document your injuries.
And yes, it is important to follow the doctor’s orders for treatment. If you don’t seek treatment on time, the plaintiff may argue that you didn’t suffer any injuries. When seeking treatment, be sure to preserve the medical records as they’ll act as proof and evidence of injuries in your case.
2. Report the Accident
No matter where the slip, trip, and fall accident happens, report it to the manager, landlord, or the property owner. If possible, get the details of this incident in writing and ask the plot owner, landlord, or manager to write a report and give you a copy of this report.
If the police were called, ask them to give you a copy of their assessment report.
3. Contact an Attorney
A slip, trip, and fall case are complex and difficult to prove. The only way out is to engage the services of a resourceful and competent law firm like Sullivan & Galleshaw, LLP. The firm has the experience, knowledge, and success record to give you the compensation you deserve. Above all, the lawyers will help you avoid mistakes that may prevent you from getting the right compensation for your case.
4. Document Everything
It’s important to collect the names and contact details of all potential witnesses. A statement from an eye-witness can help you build your case and prove your claim in court.
But that’s not all, take pictures of the exact spot where you suffered a fall. Ensure that the conditions which contributed to your falls like icy patches, stairs or any other condition is visible. Also, note down the activities you were doing right before the accident, how you fell, and the exact date and time of the accident. Also, place your shoes and clothing in a safe place as they may be a relevant piece of evidence in the future.
5. Avoid Giving Statements
Be calm and limit your communication with the landlord, property owner, or manager. Avoid posting the details about your case on Facebook or other social media platforms. Decline to give a formal statement to an insurance company without the guidance of your attorney. Do not apportion or accept blame from anyone.
Conclusion
A victim of a slip, trip, and fall accident may sustain different types of injuries. These include broken bones, head trauma, and spine injuries. All these will cause severe pain and are costly to treat. If the accident is due to the property owner’s negligence, the victim has a right to pursue compensation for his or her medical treatment costs.
