A slip and fall accident may seem insignificant, but even seemingly minor falls can result in injury. Property owners are obligated to maintain safe conditions for those who visit their premises. If you are injured after a slip, trip, or fall accident and suffer from personal injuries, it is important to take steps right away to protect your wellbeing and ensure the accident is addressed and rectified.
1. Seek Medical Treatment
Because the symptoms of many serious or life-altering injuries can take time to manifest in full, the first thing you should do after an accident is to seek a medical exam. Severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, back or spinal injuries, and internal bleeding, can have long-term effects on your health and wellbeing. It is far better to see a doctor promptly after your accident, even if serious injuries are not immediately apparent.
Prompt medical care will not only provide valuable peace of mind that your injuries are treated as soon as possible, but your medical records are important to build a case with your slip and fall accident lawyer.
2. Document the Accident
Whether the accident occurred at a business or on another's property, make certain that the property owner or manager is aware of the incident. This may include filing an official accident report and obtaining contact information in order to follow up later.
As well, take a moment to document and photograph the scene of your accident and any injuries you sustained. Note a lack of any warning signs, slippery conditions, or other hazards that contributed to your fall. It may be beneficial for your case to ask the property owner or manager about any surveillance footage that could provide a visual record of the accident.
3. Maintain Records
A slip and fall case lawyer will require valid documentation of the accident, including evidence and copies of accident reports. Keep all scene photographs, witness statements, relevant contact information, and a copy of the report in a file for easy access.
In many cases, it is helpful to preserve any clothing or footwear you had on when the accident occurred. This may serve as important evidence for your case.
4. Contact a Slip and Fall Accident Attorney
After you've assembled everything you need to file a claim, your next step is to file an official claim with the help of a slip and fall accident lawyer. An experienced legal professional can investigate the details of your case and pursue action that will address accident liability, determine fault, and further negotiate a settlement to obtain compensation for your accident.
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