Nearly every person will experience a slip and fall accident at some point in his or her life. This also includes accidentally tripping. In most of these cases, the incident will not be the victim’s fault. Slip and fall accidents can occur in just about any place and to just about any person, therefore, it is important to understand what steps to take in the aftermath of an incident. These steps will not only help to ensure that you are physically taken care, they will also ensure that your rights are guarded. Protecting your rights is essential in the event that you will need to file for a claim if the incident occurred due to the negligence of another party.
While state and local laws will vary by region, they will generally include requirements that all private and public walkways, buildings, parking lots, and homes maintain the area that is frequently traveled on. This liability is legally referred to as premises liability.
With premises liability, a person who has suffered a slip and fall or trip could be legally entitled to receive financial restitution to pay for medical expenses, time taken off of work, as well as pain and suffering. In order to receive financial compensation for the injuries sustained, the injury would have to have occurred while on the property of another party and due to the negligence of that party of upkeep and maintain a safe premises.
In the Aftermath of a Slip and Fall Accident
If you or someone you know has suffered injuries due to a slip and fall accident, the following steps should be considered. This is especially true if the need for a claim is necessary.
- Seek Medical Attention
The utmost priority after an incident is to seek immediate medical attention. This action will not only help to prevent or minimize the chance of a worsened injury, it will also help to document the injury by a credible source. If you seek to file a premises liability claim, this documentation can be sufficient to demonstrate that you were in fact injured as a result of the slip and fall accident.
- Report the Incident
Whether the incident took place in a public or private setting, make sure that you make the property caretakers know of the incident. If applicable, have him or her make a report about the incident and request a copy of such document.
- Make a Detailed Documentation of the Event in its Entirety
A crucial step that is often overlooked is that of collecting the contact information of all probable witnesses. If possible, attempt to take pictures of the location. Also, make note of the time and date of the incident.
- Refrain From Making Any Statements
Often times, your words can be taken out of context, especially if you are filing a lawsuit against individuals that could have been present when the injury took place. Attempt to limit your communication with those at the scene. Seek legal support as soon as possible.
The Bottom Line
If you or someone you know has suffered injuries due to the slip and fall that transpired on someone else’s property, know that there may be an opportunity to seek restitution for the injuries.
The attorneys at Sanford A. Kassel, APLC are highly experienced in the field of slip and fall accident claims. Premises liability claims can quickly result in financial distress; seek the help and support of a qualified team of attorneys who could champion for your rights.
