Slip and fall accidents happen regularly, many leaving victims injured. People involved in a slip and fall accident never expect to be involved or injured, which is why they usually don’t know the steps to take following the incident. Although it may never happen to you, it is still essential to know the steps following the accident to build a strong personal injury case to hold responsible parties accountable and receive potential compensation.
Common Injuries Caused by Slip and Fall Accidents
Whether you slip on a wet floor, hazardous sidewalks, or a ripped carpet, the injuries can range from minor to severe. Common slip and fall injuries include:
- Hip fractures
- Sprained wrists or ankles
- Cuts and abrasions
- Neck and shoulder injuries
- Knee injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
What To Do After A Slip and Fall Accident
Seek Medical Attention
Whether or not you are seriously injured, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Although many injuries are apparent, some may be hidden at first. A doctor can examine the severity of your injuries and treat something you may not have noticed initially. Additionally, documentation of your injuries caused by the incident is crucial for building a solid personal injury claim.
Report It
A report must be made to the property owner or business manager following the slip and fall accident. This ensures the incident is documented, so insurance companies cannot dispute your claim. Keep communication to a minimum with the liable party to avoid giving away information that could hurt your claim.
Take Photos
Take pictures of the scene following the incident. This step is crucial when proving hazardous conditions. Property owners will often fix dangerous conditions to limit their liability. Do not leave without taking photos!
Obtain Contact Information
If there were witnesses of the accident and the scene that caused it, speak to them about what they saw and obtain their contact information. If the insurance company wants multiple reports, they may need to contact those who saw what happened. Additionally, obtain contact and insurance information from the property owner.
Stay Organized
The key to building a strong case is maintaining a file of all vital information. This information should include:
- Photos of the scene
- Medical documents
- Notes about what happened
- Communication with insurance companies
- Records from your employer documenting days of work missed due to injuries
- Any other information relevant to the case
Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
One of the most critical steps to take following a slip and fall accident is to schedule a consultation with an experienced attorney. Their knowledge and expertise will help guide you through the entire process and help you protect your rights, and get you the compensation you deserve.
At Pritchard Injury Firm, we help victims of slip and fall accidents navigate the complicated process, and work tirelessly to seek the full compensation you are entitled to from those who were negligent. Give us a call today. (470) 577-8152
