If you have been injured in a slip, trip, or fall due to a hazardous or dangerous condition on someone else’s property, the actions you take immediately following the accident may have serious consequences on the the outcome of your personal injury claim. Following these basic steps will assist you immediately after a Slip and Fall Accident:
- Call 911 – Immediately after your fall, do not move or allow others to pick you up until you know it is safe to do so. If you are experiencing severe injuries, call 911 and request EMS so your injuries may be properly evaluated.
- Accept Medical Treatment – Even if you only feel slightly injured, accept medical treatment from EMS at the scene. If your injuries are severe, accept an ambulance ride to the hospital. Describe all of your injuries and symptoms in detail to medical personnel so that all of your injuries may be properly documented.
- Take Photographs – If you are physically able, take photographs of the area where you fell and the substance or thing that caused your fall. Note whether there was any attempt by the property owner or employees to clean up the substance or condition that caused your fall.
- Report the Incident to the Property Owner or Property Manager – Report the incident as soon as possible and request a copy of the incident report if a report was created.
- Collect Witness Information – If anyone saw you fall or saw the condition of the area before or after your fall, collect their names, addresses, and phone numbers, as well as a statement of what they saw.
- Save the Shoes and Clothes You Were Wearing and do not wash or alter them in any way.
- Do Not Give Any Statements – Do not give any statements, sign any paperwork, or accept any settlement offers from anyone without first consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney.
- Consult With An Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer – An experienced attorney will advise you on the value of your potential claim, investigate and gather evidence, and work to negotiate a settlement. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the attorney will file a lawsuit on your behalf and prepare your case for trial.