Lately, the team at Genthe Law Firm has had a higher than normal amount of calls regarding victims of slip and fall accidents. As we gather information about the incident, we’ve noticed quite a few holes and missing pieces in the details received. Many victims of slip and fall accidents are not aware of the importance of gathering the appropriate information and what the next steps should be. Let’s take a moment to dive into the top five steps to take after a slip and fall.
Most Common Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip and fall accidents can cause some pretty severe injuries and are not to be taken lightly. The most common injuries of a slip and fall accident include broken bones, ( more specifically hip and arm fractures), head trauma and back and spine injuries. Even if you don’t feel your injuries are this severe, follow these guidelines to ensure you have the correct information should symptoms present themselves days later.
Top Five Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident
#1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately.
A doctor’s examination will not only look for and treat your injury, it will document the fact you were injured in a slip and fall accident. Should you need to file a claim, this is the primary evidence. Do not waiver from your practitioner’s advice nor miss appointments. This gives the opposing side the opportunity to argue that you weren’t “really hurt” in the incident.
#2. Take Photos
Photos, photos, photos! We can not stress this part enough. Take photos of your injuries and if it is possible, the site of the fall and the surrounding environment. This aids in determining the cause of the accident. Let’s use a wet floor as an example for a slip and fall. Getting a wide shot of the area containing the hazard would show the appropriate signage was not in place to warn a potential victim. This helps to place liability on the property owner and show possible negligence.
#3. Keep records
Save all documents related to the accident. These documents would include medical bills, records of other accident-related expenses and correspondence with the property owner, their representatives or staff. Write down in your words what happened that day.
#4. Do Not Accept Blame
It’s easy to want to apologize or create excuses for the accident. Genthe Law Firm encourages you not to speculate or accept blame. Do not place blame either and refrain from giving any statements to the property owner’s insurance company until you have talked to your attorney.
#5. Meet With A Lawyer
A lawyer experienced with slip and fall cases in Texas is able to provide valuable assistance to you after the incident. When a slip and fall injury is due to a property owner’s negligence, the injured party has a right to seek compensation for their losses. Genthe Law Firm zealously fights for the rights of their clients and there are no fees unless you recover.
