What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident

After a slip and fall accident, it’s important to act quickly. The following six steps can help protect you by strengthening your slip and fall claim. You can take them in any order based on how serious your injuries are.

While these steps are a great starting point for preserving your legal rights, they can’t replace the trusted advice of an experienced lawyer.

Report Your Accident to the Property Owners or Managers

Immediately after your fall, speak with whoever is in charge of the property and request a formal report. If you can’t stand, have someone else report the accident for you while you get medical attention. Be sure to request a copy of the report, as well as any police report that results from the incident.

If the property owner doesn’t have a formal reporting system for accidents, take down their contact information and write your own notes as soon as possible, making sure to describe the accident and the extent of your injuries.

Seek Medical Attention

Slipping and falling can result in terrible pain and injuries. It is critical to get medical assistance following a slip and fall. Contact emergency personnel at the scene of the injury and follow the first responder’s instructions. Go to the hospital if directed. If they do not believe you need to go to the hospital, see a healthcare provider within 48 hours to have your injuries documented. Some damage, such as head trauma, may not be as obvious at first. Keeping a record of your injuries will assist you in filing your claim.

Document the Scene and What Caused Your Fall

In the immediate aftermath of your accident, look around to identify what caused your fall, such as a wet floor, icy pathway, or poorly-maintained step. Photograph the scene from multiple angles, making sure to capture details of the hazard before anything changes. Time is of the essence, as the property owner may quickly mop puddles, salt ice, or replace dangerous objects.

Make sure to save any physical evidence related to the accident, such as the clothes and shoes you were wearing. Additionally, take photos of them as well. Make dated notes of any relevant details concerning the accident, such as what the weather was like, what time you fell, and how you remember the sequence of events.

Gather Information from Witnesses

Did anyone witness your fall? Did anyone offer to assist you? Save any contact information for witnesses, such as names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses, that will help you find them later. You can ask them later whether they are willing to provide a statement, be deposed, or testify if necessary. If you were with someone during your slip and fall, such as a friend or family member, request permission to film their statement with your phone’s camera. It’s easier to record a statement when it’s still fresh, rather than depending on recollection and writing it down later.

Don’t Talk About Your Case on Social Media

Although it may be tempting to talk about your case, it’s recommended that you never discuss prospective legal action. Stay off social media while your slip and fall case is being processed. Don’t point fingers or make disparaging remarks about anyone involved in the case, and keep discussions about your slip and fall case exclusively with your doctors and attorneys.

Be Wary of Insurance Agents

Following a slip and fall accident, you may be contacted by an insurance adjuster about your claim. Be mindful of what you disclose to them. They want to figure out how to pay you the least amount of money possible, hoping that you will admit responsibility or minimize your injuries. Never sign a release authorizing anyone to see your medical records without first consulting a lawyer. If you have already retained an attorney, direct the insurance person to them.