In many instances, we tend to overlook the severe dangers presented by a slip and fall. No matter how good your balance is or how careful you are, we have all slipped or tripped over something before. While most of us get back on our feet and continue with day to day life, others can experience severe and debilitating injuries that can impact their health and wellbeing.
Whether you have had a slip and fall at work, or in a public setting, here are five immediate steps you need to take.
Seek Medical Attention
Your health and wellbeing should come before anything else after a slip and fall. Even if you believe you’ve sustained minor or no injuries, it’s best to get yourself checked out by a medical professional first. Your doctor will examine any harm you’ve suffered and deliver proper treatment and care to speed up the recovery process. You can also obtain your medical records to serve as evidence in your slip and fall case.
Collect Evidence
The more evidence you gather for your slip and fall case, the better chance you have of winning. Taking photos of the accident scene and acquiring the names and contact information of witnesses will strengthen your case. If you want to collect evidence, make sure that you’re in the right frame of mind to do so, otherwise, you can ask a family member or friend for help. It’s best to take photographs immediately as someone may change or fix the hazardous area.
Report the Incident
As soon as you can, you must report the incident to the manager, landlord, or owner of the commercial property in which your slip and fall occurred. If you had a slip and fall on public property, make sure that you report the incident to the town or city. You should also contact the police who will file a report which can also be used as evidence.
Find a Reputable Lawyer
It’s important that you get justice and compensation for your slip and fall accident. There are personal injury attorneys who specialize in slip and falls, meaning they have the expertise and knowledge to assist you with your case. There is a time limit to file your case. So, make sure you do so as quickly as possible. A reputable slip and fall lawyer must have excellent communication skills and do everything they can to help you win your case. If you’re unsure of who to pick, it’s advised to have a free consultation with a couple of lawyers in your area.
Look After Yourself
While some people may experience minor wounds from a slip and fall, others may sustain life-changing injuries. Make sure that you look after yourself throughout your case to get the best outcome possible. To speed up the recovery process, you must take things easy and put your full trust and faith in your slip and fall lawyer.
If you have had a slip and fall due to someone else’s negligence, you must follow all the steps listed above. The injuries you sustain may result in you having to give up work and change the way you live your life. So, taking action immediately and filing a claim can help you get the outcome you envisaged.