Slips, Trip and Fall Accidents

A slip and fall accident refers to situations when someone slips, trips or falls as a result of a dangerous or hazardous condition on someone else’s property. It includes falls as a result of water, ice or snow, as well as abrupt changes in flooring, poor lighting, or a hidden hazard. The National Center for Injury Prevention and Control estimates that in 2004, falls were the cause of more than 8 million peoples’ injuries.

Slips, trips and falls can be very costly. Furthermore, if another person or business caused the fall, a lawsuit may be the only way you can recover many expenses. These include medical expenses, lost wages, or money to compensate for pain and suffering. There are a few easy but important points to keep in mind in the immediate aftermath. These will go a long way towards proving the property owner was at fault.

Slips, Trip and Fall Accident Claims

If you have been injured in a slip, trip and fall accident, you may be entitled to collect compensation for the damages and costs associated with your injuries. While each slips, trips and falls case is different, there are common legal considerations to note in every case:

5 Steps to Take after a Slip, Trip, and Fall Accident

1. Seek Medical Treatment: Your health—or the health of a loved one—should be your number-one priority following slips, trips and falls. If you’ve been hurt, it’s important to see a doctor so that he or she can officially document your injuries. Those medical records will be important pieces of evidence should you decide to seek compensation for your injuries.
2. Report the Accident: No matter where the slip, trip, and fall accident happens—in a store, on a sidewalk, or at a friend’s house—make sure you report it to a manager, owner or landlord. Remember to get the details of the incident in writing—ask the manager, owner or landlord to make a written report, and request a copy before you leave.
3. Document Everything: It’s important to collect the names, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses for all potential witnesses. Their statements could help prove your claim if you decide to pursue a legal claim. Also, remember to take pictures of the exact location. Furthermore, make sure to photograph any stairs, icy patches, or other conditions that contributed to your accident. Jot down what you were doing right before the accident, the way you fell, and any other details, including the exact time and date. Also: Place the shoes and clothing you were wearing during the accident in a safe storage place. They may be relevant pieces of evidence later.
4. Decline to Give Statements: Remain calm and limit your communication with the property owner or manager. Do not post any details related to your accident on social media. Decline to give a statement to an insurance company until you’ve spoken to a personal injury attorney. Do not place blame—and don’t take any.
5. Call a Personal Injury Attorney: An experienced personal injury attorney is the best person to have on your side when you are considering legal action. Many slips, trips, and falls cases are complex and difficult to prove. This is why a successful law firm and personal injury attorney is your best option.

Of course, you don’t need to go far to find a reliable and experienced personal injury attorney or to read more about slips, trips and falls. Use our solicitor portal to receive to find a solicitor that suits you or contact us for more assistance. Our blog is also filled with many articles concerning all types of personal injury claims such as Slip Trip and Fall Accident Claims.