You might assume minor accidents are straightforward and easily dismissed. But even slip and fall injuries can cause serious issues for the victim and even for the property owners where the accident happens.
Statistics show that about one million emergency room visits happen every year in the US due to slip or fall injuries. And worse, about 17,000 people even die due to such accidents annually.
For victims, experiencing such an accident on someone else’s property can be confusing and painful. But if this is caused by negligence or a deliberate act of someone, you have the right to seek compensation for the grievances you suffer, according to a premises liability lawyer in Duluth.
Here are the steps you need to take to fight for your rights as a victim of such a slip or fall accident.
Assess Your Injuries and Seek Medical Attention
Medical therapy is the first procedure to be followed after an accident of a slip or fall. Take a few minutes first to examine your body for any pain or discomfort. If you find something strange, then go for help at once.
Your health is the priority; moreover, you are not the only one facing this issue. People nearby, even strangers, could be of support. If you are sure of your good health but still have a little doubt, it is better to get a doctor’s opinion.
Medical attention may lower the fear, as occasionally, wounds are not seen immediately. Use the time of your recovery to let your family take care of you and be with you.
Document the Incident
To prove your claim, you need evidence. You must present a detailed slip or fall accident report before negligence and liability issues arise.
What you need to do is collect the proper documents that you can use to supplement your report. Take pictures of where the incident happened. Take pictures of your injuries as well. These images can prove the hazard that led to the unfortunate incident. You can add the signs and the cracked or dangerous pavement sections that caused the fall.
Write down the event based on what you remember. Answer these questions: what happened, when it happened, and who the people were. If it is feasible, ask the witnesses for their names and contact information. They could turn out to be very helpful later on.
Make a paper trail of your injuries and also a record of your doctor’s visits. If you decide to present your case, this document could be a determining factor. Please keep in mind that the completeness of your documentation is directly proportional to the likelihood of your case being accepted if you solicit assistance at a later date.
Report the Fall to Property Owner or Manager
Informing the owner or the manager of the property about the fall is very important, and it must be done promptly because the manager has the right to be aware of hazards that might endanger their property.
The accident report will also help keep future tourists in that area safe. You must prioritize politeness and understanding during the reporting process; these values will ease interactions and show others that you care about the community’s safety.
Your honesty might, in fact, make you the one who prevents an accident from happening. Always keep in mind that you are in power, and your report may result in an improved safety situation for everyone.
Therefore, do not hesitate to call; it really is an emergency action.
Gather Witness Information
Once you notify the property owner or manager about your slip or fall accident, it is necessary to collect the information of the witnesses who were present when the accident occurred. These individuals may very well be the ones to testify in your favor.
Show them courtesy, and ask them their names and contact info. If they agree, ask them to share a brief account of what they witnessed; this information may be useful later. Always express your gratitude for their help and support, as people often provide more assistance when they sense your appreciation.
Believing that detailed and accurate information strengthens your position is wise. With witness support, you are already greatly influencing your case.
Consult With a Personal Injury Attorney
Getting a personal injury lawyer’s opinions can be your key move to safeguard your rights. They can help you select the best legal option for your slip or fall case.
Their presence is a clear indication that you are not going to cope with the problem on your own. Having an experienced lawyer means that you can direct your energy towards recovering while the attorney will be working non-stop to get you the rightful compensation.
Please keep in mind that you are not just a case, you are among the people who lend and receive support in difficult times.