If you have been injured because of a slip and fall incident on the property of another person or business, you may be entitled to compensation. The owner of the property where the accident occurred and the injured individual may both hold varying degrees of responsibility for slip and fall accident. The property owner is responsible for maintaining a safe environment and the individual has a responsibility to use proper care in his or her own actions as well. In order for the property owner to be liable, an unsafe condition must have caused the fall. It is not enough to simply slip, or stumble, while on someone else’s property. Examples of unsafe conditions are:
- Accumulation of snow and ice
- Wet and slippery floors
- A badly damaged sidewalk
- Potholes, or
- Debris
Steps to Take After a Slip, Trip, and Fall Accident
- Seek Medical Treatment. Your health—or the health of a loved one—should be your number-one priority following a slip, trip, and fall accident. If you’ve been hurt, it’s important to see a doctor so that your injuries can be properly documented. Those medical records will be important pieces of evidence should you decide to seek compensation for your injuries.
- 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.
- 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 where you fell and 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.
- 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 an attorney. Do not place blame—and don’t take any.
- Call an Attorney. When considering legal action, the best person on your side is an experienced attorney. Since many slip, trip, and fall cases are complex and difficult to prove, you are best served by the resources of a successful law firm. We have the experience, knowledge, and track record of success to recover the money you deserve.
Many accident victims are unsure whether they need an attorney to handle their case. Here are three ways our experienced slip, trip, and fall attorneys can help you:
We’ll handle the confusing paperwork. Slip, trip, and fall cases are confusing and complex. Our experienced legal team will take care of all the details so you can focus on getting better.
We’ll worry about the deadlines. People hurt in slip, trip, and fall accidents have only a limited time to file legal claims.
We’ll treat you like a person, not a case number — and keep you posted about your case in language you can understand.
Don’t get stuck paying medical bills from an accident caused by somebody else. With Spevack Law Firm, you’ll get experienced, successful legal professionals who have the resources to win your case. Your team will be with you from start to finish.
