It’s normal to feel overwhelmed after you’ve been involved in a slip-and-fall incident that left you injured or with damaged property. Not only will you need to focus on your physical health, but also grapple with how to cover the unexpected financial expenses on your path to recovery. While it’s a difficult time, there are several steps you should take to protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. This is especially true if another party is liable for the incident.
Document the Scene
If you’re able to do so, take pictures or video of the scene, and document any hazardous conditions that may have led to your accident. Essentially, you’re trying to create evidence that proves what caused the slip or fall. This can include anything from a wet floor or broken sidewalk to loose handrails and obstructed walkways. If there were witnesses to the incident, try, and get their contact information as well. It’s best to get as much physical evidence as you can find that created this accident.
Get Medical Treatment
Your well-being should always be your top priority, so if you’ve been physically injured, you must seek medical attention as soon as possible. These injuries need to be taken seriously. Common injuries associated with slips and falls include bruising, sprains, concussions, and fractures. If you haven’t already done so, have a medical professional evaluate your condition and document the type of treatment you received. This will be helpful later, should you need to prove your damages.
Report the Incident
While this isn’t a legal requirement, reporting the incident is important for creating a paper trail in case you pursue legal action. If possible, put your report in writing and include the date, time, location, and any details that can help demonstrate how the incident occurred. Workplaces and commercial buildings will likely have an incident report form that you can fill out. If the accident happened in an area outside your control, such as a public space, it’s best to report the incident to the applicable municipality within the shortest time possible.
Consult with an Attorney
Understanding liability and any applicable laws in your state requires a certain level of expertise. Ideally, it’s the duty of the property owner or those in control of the premises to ensure that any hazardous conditions are identified and fixed. This means you’re entitled to compensation for any physical or financial damages that result from their negligence. Consulting with a New Jersey slip and fall lawyer at Harrell Injury Law can help you develop a comprehensive picture of your legal rights, as well as explore all potential forms of compensation that may be available to you. They will be of invaluable assistance when filing an insurance claim, negotiating with the responsible party, and in most cases, filing a personal injury lawsuit.
Conclusion
Although dealing with the aftermath of a slip or fall incident can be a stressful process, understanding the steps you need to take immediately can help you navigate the situation more clearly. Make sure to document the scene, seek medical treatment for any injuries, report the incident and consult with an experienced personal injury attorney for the best chance of getting full and fair compensation. The sooner you take these steps, the more likely it is that you’ll be successful in your claim. A legal professional will make sure that you get the justice that you deserve.
