A trip and fall or slip and fall accident can occur on public or private property and can result in minor to life-changing injuries. In the event you’re involved in this type of accident, there are certain steps you must follow to protect your health and legal rights.
What to Do After a Trip and Fall or Slip and Fall Accident
In the aftermath of a slip and fall or trip and fall accident, you may feel disoriented, in pain, and uncertain of what to do next. The steps included here will help protect your health and your legal claim, if you plan to pursue compensation from the negligent property owner.
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Gather Evidence and Information
Take photos or video of the area where you fell, from a variety of angles.
If anyone witnessed the accident, obtain their names and contact information. If you fell in a public place, such as a grocery store, speak with the manager to obtain the appropriate contact information. -
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, you should still be assessed by a medical professional. Additionally, the documentation you receive from the medical facility will help tie your injuries to the slip and fall or trip and fall incident.
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Notify the Property Owner
Contact the owner of the property to report the incident. They will complete an incident report. Provide the property owner with all of the facts, providing as many details as possible. After speaking with the property owner or manager, request a copy of the incident report.
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Avoid Speaking with the Insurance Company
If the property owner’s insurance company attempts to contact you, avoid speaking with them until you obtain legal representation. A claims adjuster will want to get your side of the story and ask to record your conversation. During that time, they will ask you confusing and misleading questions, hoping you say something that could harm your claim. They may even make a low settlement offer. Unfortunately, those fast settlements are never enough to cover the total cost of damages. Instead of speaking to the insurance adjuster, contact a trip and fall lawyer. When you hire legal representation, they can take over all interactions with the insurance company to protect your rights and your claim.
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Contact a Trip and Fall Lawyer
As soon as possible, contact an experienced trip and attorney to discuss your case. They will listen to your side of the story and explain your legal rights and options. If you decide to hire them, they can begin investigating the accident right away and help you pursue compensation for your medical bills and other damages.
Contact Us Today
If you were injured in a trip and fall accident that was caused by dangerous or hazardous conditions on someone’s property, contact Child & Jackson Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free legal consultation. Our trip and fall lawyers have decades of experience fighting insurance companies for the compensation our clients deserve and can provide the dedicated and knowledgeable legal guidance and advice you need during this difficult time. Contact us today to schedule your free legal consultation.
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