More than eight million people go to the emergency room each year after being injured from a fall, many of these are caused by slips and falls due to the negligence of others.
There are key components to consider when you are looking for compensation for your slip and fall. Injuries resulting from a slip and fall accident can range from a minor cut, bruise, or sprain to a catastrophic fracture or brain injury impacting your life forever. Make sure that you know what steps to take in protecting your slip-and-fall claim by contacting a trusted lawyer immediately.
Reporting the Accident
A key factor in protecting your claim in a slip-and-fall incident is the initial report.
If you are able to while at the scene, request to report the accident immediately to the highest person in charge, such as a manager or owner of the property. If you were injured in a public area such as a park, you will need to notify the city or town or call the police to report the accident.
Gather Evidence
While reports are strong evidence in any legal claim, pictures in the event of a slip-and-fall accident paint a clear picture of the hazardous environment leading up to your injuries.
It is helpful if photographs or video is taken from different angles and of the entire area and stamped with the date and time. Eyewitnesses can also be a key component of the evidence you need for a strong slip-and-fall claim.
Seek the Medical Care you Need
Do not delay seeking medical attention for your injuries. While some injuries are immediate, such as a cut, bone fracture, or severe pain, other symptoms such as headaches or back pain may evolve over the next few days.
Prompt physician care will improve both your recovery as well as strengthen the evidence in your slip-and-fall case. Proof that your injuries are directly related to your fall can help you get compensated for your injuries.
Get Statements from All Witnesses
If witnesses were present at the time of your slip-and-fall accident, ask them to be available to speak on your behalf. Make sure to get their complete contact information including full name, phone number, and email address where they can be reached. In many cases, the testimony of witnesses ensures the success of your claim.
Don’t Go Uncompensated
Whether your injuries were due to slipping on a spill, tripping on loose rugs or floorboards, or falls due to unstable walkways and railings, don’t let someone else’s failure to uphold their duty of care cost you. Most often medical bills and loss of work causes financial hardship as well as pain and suffering from the injury itself.
To win a slip-and-fall lawsuit, the property owner will need to be proven to be at fault. The lawyers at Lopez & Humphries, PA will review your claim, organize evidence, and speak with available witnesses on your behalf. To ensure your best chances of a successful slip and fall lawsuit, call us today at 863-709-8500 or complete the following online contact form for a free consultation.