What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident
Falls are the number one cause of injury for older adults in the United States. However, you do not need to be a certain age to trip over and suffer a slip and fall accident. Slips and falls can occur for many reasons, and these types of accidents can cause serious injury. After an accident, a victim may feel a range of emotions, which is why it is important that you are aware of the steps you should take following a slip and fall accident.
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Take Immediate Action
It is important to take immediate action after an accident. Some people may experience shock after a fall which means that you may not feel any stress or trauma until much later. This is why you should document your accident straight away, especially if the accident occurred outside of your home. If your fall was the result of the negligence of others, you have the right to seek compensation for medical bills and potentially more. By taking immediate action, you can build a case and win the compensation you deserve.
Seek Professional Guidance
When it comes to accidents that occur outside of your property, it is best to seek professional guidance from a reputable legal company. Schrier Law Group can provide you with a slip and fall lawyer in Miami. Some slip and fall cases are incredibly complex, and an experienced lawyer with a good track record will give you the best chance to win compensation.
Check Yourself For Injury
Your health should be a top priority, and following an accident, you should always check yourself for injury. If you feel pain after a fall, always visit a physician, or any other healthcare professional, for a physical examination. Even if you simply do not feel 100 percent, a professional will be able to spot any unseen trauma. In addition to addressing your worries and potential injuries, your healthcare provider will document your visit, and your medical records can be used as primary evidence should you need to make a claim. Furthermore, if you are prescribed treatment, always follow your doctor’s orders. Failing to do so could indicate to the opposition that you did not need treatment because you were not hurt.
Make a Report
It doesn’t matter where the accident takes place; make sure you report it to the right person and get written evidence. This could be from an owner, a landlord, the manager of a store, or your own manager if the accident occurred at work. Although it may be difficult, try to accept or assign blame and do not give any statements to the opposing side’s insurance company before consulting your own lawyer.
Gather Your Evidence
Besides getting a written report, try to collect contact details for potential witnesses and note down information, such as weather conditions and how you were injured. Photographic evidence of your injuries and the place where the accident occurred can also help you win your case. In addition, keep your footwear and clothing in a safe place to further prove the severity of your fall. Once you have collected a sufficient amount of evidence, keep it all together for future reference.
