Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere and at any time – whether it’s a sidewalk, a shopping store, or a private company. When a slip and fall accident occurs, knowing what the cause behind it is and what necessary steps you should take to deal with its aftermath is mandatory.
Have you experienced a slip and fall accident and are looking to protect your health and ensure you have the much-needed evidence to take legal action? If that’s the case, several must-do things require your attention.
Let’s have a look at some of the most effective must-do things that will help you navigate the aftermath of your slip and fall accident.
- Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Ensuring health and safety should always be a foremost priority. Even if your injuries are minor, it’s advisable to seek medical attention right away. The options are numerous: you can either go to the hospital or consult your family doctor or walk-in clinic.
During your visit, feel free to explain how and when the injury occurred. Let your healthcare provider document your injuries and maintain your medical records.
Be all ears to whatever your medical advice tells you. Additionally, your medical professional will provide you with all medical records, a dietary plan, and medical prescriptions related to your injury.
Hence, taking medications on time and following the directions of your medical expert will ensure a speedy and proper recovery.
- Be Mindful to Report the Incident
Suppose your fall happened at a business space located in Henderson, Nevada. In that case, you should report the incident to a manager or property owner.
It’s a wise step to ask for a copy of the incident report to maintain your own records. So, if you seek help from one of the seasoned Henderson Slip and Fall Accident Lawyers for your rights and compensation later on, you can provide them to ease their legal proceedings.
On the flip side, if they refuse to provide you with an incident report, no worries at all. Just note down their name and designation for future reference, if needed.
- Never Overlook the Accident and Witness Details
This step revolves around documenting all information and details pertaining to the accident. Take note of whatever you remember, which must include:
- What is the exact time, date, and location where you have fallen?
- What was the reason for your fall, — was it a wet or oily floor, an uneven surface to walk on, or a random object in your path?
- Whether any warning signs indicating a hazard exist where you fell.
- Any discussions or arguments you made with property owners, employees, or witnesses.
Aim to collect and preserve all details regarding your slip and fall accident. This will help you throughout the legal process later on.
What’s more, it’s essential to ask witnesses, if any, for their names and contact details. Take their statements concerning what they saw during your slip and fall accident occurrence.
Preserving these details and statements will help you support your claim, especially if the property owner denies any accident happened in their premises.
- Remember to Obtain Security Camera Footage
The location where the incident occurred has security cameras is another significant aspect that you should focus on. Don’t hesitate to request the property owner or manager for a copy of the incident’s footage.
Once you get video evidence, you will better identify and prove the actual cause of your fall there. Pro tip: Make sure you obtain high-resolution video footage for clear and visible evidence.
Therefore, your legal partner can be in a position to impose liability charges on the party who was responsible for your slip and fall accident..
- Identify Who’s Responsible for Your Fall
Your next move is to take the time to identify who’s liable for maintaining the space where you fell. Pay close attention to various aspects of the location, whether it’s:
- Owned by a single individual.
- A rental unit where either the landlord or the tenant could hold responsibility.
- A property belonging to the city or municipality, which could have distinct legal obligations for submitting a claim.
- A commercial property that is overseen by a corporation.
- Snap Photographs of the Accident Scene
Visual evidence can make all the difference in navigating the aftermath of your slip and fall accident. If possible, be sure to capture photos of;
- Location where the fall occurred, focusing on any hazards present such as a wet floor, ice, or broken tiles.
- Environment assessment, showing any absence of warning signs or safety precautions that could have alerted individuals to potential dangers.
- Record any injuries sustained as a result of the fall, providing specifics on their nature and severity.
- Clothing and Footwear you were wearing at the time of the fall, especially if they played a role in the incident or were damaged during the fall.
Once you gather this information, you can secure a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
- Preserve Your Footwear, Any Damaged Clothes, or Personal Belongings
The shoes or boots you had on during the incident could serve as evidence. Keep them in the same condition as they were right after the fall. It’s best to take pictures to illustrate their tread and appropriateness for the circumstances.
If your clothing was ripped or any personal items were harmed during the fall (such as your phone, glasses, or handbag), preserve them since they might provide additional proof of the fall’s severity.
- Don’t Forget to Record Your Injuries
Last but not least, it’s highly recommended to monitor how your injuries progress over time by carefully:
- Taking pictures of any visible injuries.
- Maintaining a journal that reflects your pain levels, limitations in mobility, and any difficulties resulting from the injury.
- Keeping receipts and documentation of all medical care, therapies, and prescriptions.
Having all these details regarding your injuries will streamline the compensation claims and negotiation process and be more favorable.
Final Verdict
Following these crucial steps will ensure you have the essential documentation and evidence should you decide to pursue a claim against a negligent party.
If your injuries are severe and you suspect that negligence played a role, seeking advice from an experienced slip-and-fall lawyer can assist you in understanding your legal choices. Plus, your legal representative will enhance your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your recovery and wellness.
