How To Protect Your Rights After a Slip and Fall Accident
Slip-and-fall accidents are among the most common preventable accidents in the U.S. Some slip-and-fall accident victims are able to continue with their lives with little disruption. However, many people suffer severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment and staying away from work. According to research, slips and falls account for more than a million ER visits. Severe slip and fall injuries can lead to substantial medical expenses and lost wages. On top of that, victims may experience significant pain and suffering and emotional distress, among other non-monetary damages. The good news, however, is that the law provides remedies for individuals injured due to other people’s negligence. If you’ve suffered injuries in a slip and fall accident because of a property owner’s negligence, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim and seek compensation. Here are the steps to take to safeguard your rights after a slip and fall accident and recover the compensation you deserve.
#1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The first step after a slip and fall accident is seeking medical attention. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it is crucial to seek prompt medical attention. Some injuries might appear minor initially but could worsen over time. Seeking prompt medical attention ensures your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated. Second, it creates an official medical record of your injury, which is vital if you file a personal injury claim later. Medical records can serve as key evidence to demonstrate the causal relationship between the slip and fall accident and your injuries. Delaying medical care can raise doubts about how your injuries occurred. The defense side could argue that your injuries were caused by something else, not their negligence. Medical records can also help demonstrate the extent of your injuries.
#2: Report the Accident
You should report the slip-and-fall accident to the property owner, landlord, manager, or supervisor as soon as possible. Ensure the report is in writing. If your accident happened on commercial property, ask to complete an incident report. Ensure you get a copy of this report. Reporting the incident creates an official record of the event, which can be crucial in establishing liability.
#3: Gather Evidence
Evidence is vital for protecting your rights after a slip and fall accident. If you can do so (or can request someone to do so), take pictures of the accident scene, ensuring you capture the hazard that caused your accident. Also, take photos of your injuries. Second, get the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened. Witness statements can support your claim. Third, preserve the clothes and shoes you were wearing at the time of the accident. Additionally, write down what happened as soon as possible, including how the fall occurred, what caused it, and any conversations you heard with the property owner, landlord, manager, or supervisor.
#4: Contact an Attorney
Slip and fall cases can be complex. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of personal injury law and ensure your rights are protected. A skilled lawyer can help you gather evidence, file your claim on time, negotiate with the insurance company, and file a lawsuit if necessary.
Contact a London & Southeast Kentucky Slip & Fall Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, contact our London & South East Kentucky slip and fall attorneys at Cessna & George Law Firm today to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Source:
nfsi.org/nfsi-research/quick-facts/#:~:text=Slips%20and%20falls%20account%20for%20over%201%20million%20visits%2C%20or%2012%25%20of%20total%20falls.
