If you have slipped and fallen on someone else’s property or on a public walkway, you might be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries. These accidents are often due to a property owner or manager’s negligence, specifically, the failure to provide a safe area for walking. This negligence is central to your slip and fall case, and it is very crucial that you follow these steps after your fall to absolutely prove that it was the cause of your accident and injuries.
Slip and fall claims can be tricky to resolve, so you need as much evidence as possible to demonstrate the precise environmental conditions and events that led to your accident. Follow these steps to begin building this foundation of proof:
- Report the fall to the property manager or owner. This step may vary according to where you are. In a commercial establishment, you are likely to have access to official accident report paperwork. On the other hand, if you have fallen in someone’s home, you may just need to inform them of your fall and put it in writing using your own resources.
- Collect evidence from the scene.Even if you can fill out a report accident using paperwork provided by the property owner, you will need to document the incident for yourself. Write down all details of the scene, and take photos and videos. If there were wet substances, hazardous objects, or anything else present that contributed to your fall, make sure to reflect these in your evidence, too. Witness statements can help strengthen your case, so be sure to take down the contact information for anyone who saw your accident.
- Seek medical assistance. Though many underestimate these accidents, slip and falls often result in injuries, including fractures and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even if you do not feel hurt right away, it is best that you seek medical treatment immediately. This is both to ensure your physical safety and to gather proof of your condition after the accident.
Throughout all of this, remember to avoid any discussions of liability and refrain from expressing guilt. The property owner is likely to use such talk against you in court in an attempt to blame you for your injuries and disqualify you from receiving compensation. To increase your chances of success in holding the negligent party liable for your fall, seek the guidance of an experienced lawyer.
Hiring a Lawyer for Your Case
Now that you’ve built the foundation of your claim, you need to get in touch with a lawyer to bring your case to the negligent party. Your lawyer will assist you in building a successful legal case that demonstrates the following critical points:
- The property owner had the legal duty to maintain a walking area clear of hazards. This responsibility is officially referred to as the “duty of care.”
- The property owner did not adhere to this duty of care.
- Their failure to provide a safe walking space was the direct cause of your accident.
These points can be challenging to prove on your own. However, a lawyer’s guidance will make the claims process markedly smoother and easier for you, while improving your chances of securing compensation. If you’re ready to begin your claim, get in touch with a lawyer today.
