10 Things to Do If I Get Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident

Let’s face it; we all trip, slip and fall at some point in our life. So, when we do, we don’t always take things seriously even if most of these accidents are not our fault. And some of us don’t even know what to do after a slip and fall accident, or if we get injured in a slip and fall accident.

Because we think of a slip and fall accident as embarrassing or simply a little frustrating.  But being injured in a slip and fall accident is a serious situation, especially if it happened in a public area that should be maintained well to make sure that it is safe for foot traffic. So, if you ever get into this situation, here are the ten things that you must do after a slip and fall accident:

1. Call Emergency Services

Even if you think that your injury isn’t that serious, it’s best to seek medical treatment to rule out possible injuries like head trauma and spinal fractures or internal bleeding that could lead to death. Often, these slip and fall injuries are not noticeable.

2. Report the Accident

It’s very important to report the accident to the authorities—a landlord, property manager, or owner—and make sure that the details are put into writing. You should also file a police report as soon as possible. But make sure that the property owner or the manager of the premises rights up a report about the incident.

3. Gather Evidence

Make sure you take photos of the scene and collect the contact information of potential witnesses after a slip and fall accident. If you get injured in a slip and fall accident, all the evidence and witness testimonials will be used during your trial to ensure that you are compensated for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The more evidence you have the more successful your slip and fall case may be and the more you are able to present to the insurance company.

4. Document the Details

Immediately after the slip and fall accident, and while things are fresh, jot down every detail that led to the accident. Take note of relevant information like slippery floors, the time and date of the accident, what shoes you were wearing, and even the weather. All these details may be important, so do not leave anything out. Be sure to show these details to your slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible.

5. Think About Possible Causes

As you recall the day of the accident, it’s very important to also think about what could’ve caused it. Slips and falls could be the result of things like uneven surfaces, ice, loose carpet, or faulty walkways. Think about this immediately following the accident when you have time.

6. Don’t Give a Statement

Although you need to report the accident to the property owner or manager, you have to avoid offering too many details about what happened and save it for your formal complaint. You shouldn’t also post anything on social media or give a formal statement to an insurance company before talking to a personal injury lawyer.

7. Get in Touch With Your Attorney

If you want to file a formal complaint against the premises owner or business that manages the area where you slipped or fell, it’s best to start by talking to your slip and fall attorney so you know the right actions to take. Do this as soon as you know you were injured after the slip and fall accident.

8. Organize Your Files

If you want to get the best chances at winning a case, you need to keep a case file that contains all the important documents that will support your complaint and insurance claim. It could be your medical bills, receipts, medical records, photos, and other related documents. We also recommend you start a journal immediately after a slip and fall accident so you can track your progress and how the accident has affected your daily life.

9. Keep the Clothes

Avoid washing or cleaning the clothes and shoes that you wore on the day you tripped or fell. Any blood, debris, or damages to them could help you prove your case. You can keep these in a safe place along with any documents that you are collecting.

10. Never Point your Finger

Finally, avoid assigning blame on anyone until the court decides who is at fault for your slip and fall accident. Proving your case will require investigation and you should leave that task to the experts. It is also smart to let your lawyer do all the talking and stay out of the spotlight whenever possible after a slip and fall accident.

If you get injured in a slip and fall accident, speak with a qualified attorney at Steinger Greene & Feiner as soon as possible. One of our legal team is waiting to take your call and help you make the right decision. Call now and get the money you deserve: (800) 560-5059.