Slip and fall accidents happen more often than you’d think. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, slips and falls are one of the leading causes of injury in the United States. While some of these accidents are minor and cause no damage, others can be more serious and may result in serious injury or even death. When this happens, it is important to know what to do in the immediate aftermath of such an accident.
Learn what you should do after a slip and fall accident.
What Is a Slip and Fall Accident?
A slip and fall accident is any type of accident that occurs when a person slips, trips, or falls on a surface due to an unexpected hazard or obstacle. This can include wet floors, uneven surfaces, broken stairs, and more. Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere and can occur in both commercial and residential properties.
It is important to note that not all slip-and-fall accidents are grounds for a personal injury claim. For example, if a person slips and falls in a public area due to their own negligence, such as wearing improper footwear or not paying attention, they cannot file a claim against the property owner.
Liability in a Slip and Fall Accident
When a slip-and-fall accident occurs, it is important to determine who is at fault. In some cases, the property owner may be liable for the accident. However, it is not always easy to determine who is responsible. For example, if a person slips and falls due to an unexpected hazard, such as a patch of ice or a broken step, the property owner may not be liable.
In some cases, the property owner may be liable for the accident if they knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to address it in a timely manner. Additionally, if the property owner or their employees created or caused the hazard, they may be liable for any resulting injuries.
What to Do Immediately Following a Slip and Fall Accident
If you have been involved in a slip and fall accident, there are a few important steps you should take immediately following the incident. First and foremost, if you are injured, seek medical attention right away. It is important to document any injuries, as this will be important evidence if you decide to file a personal injury claim.
You should also document the accident scene. Take pictures or videos of the hazard that caused your accident and any other relevant evidence. It is also important to get the contact information of any witnesses who may have seen the accident.
Gather Evidence
In addition to documenting the accident scene, it is important to gather evidence that will support your claim. This can include photos and videos of the hazard that caused your accident, medical records, witness statements, and more. These pieces of evidence can help prove that the property owner was negligent and that they should be held liable for your injuries.
It is also important to keep a record of any expenses related to the accident. This can include medical bills, lost wages, and other costs associated with the accident. This information can be used to determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to.
Seek Medical Attention
If you are injured in a slip and fall accident, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Even if you do not feel any pain or discomfort immediately after the accident, it is still important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not show any symptoms until days or weeks after the accident.
Hire an Attorney
If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, it is important to hire an experienced attorney. An experienced attorney from a personal injury law firm can help you determine who is liable for your injuries and will work to ensure that you are properly compensated.
Additionally, they can help you determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to and will fight to ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation possible.
Conclusion
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere and can result in serious injury or even death. It is important to know what to do in the immediate aftermath of such an accident, including gathering evidence, seeking medical attention, and hiring an attorney. By taking these steps, you can ensure that you are properly compensated for your injuries.