Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of death in the United States and send millions of people to the emergency with various forms of physical injuries. These injuries can result in temporary or lifelong incapacitation and adversely impact the quality of life of the victims. Slip and fall injuries also result in significant financial damage in the form of medical bills, costs of ongoing medical or surgical treatment, loss of income, and more. The combination of physical and emotional trauma with the stress of handling your finances after such an accident can be quite overbearing. In such circumstances, it is natural to wonder if you can file a lawsuit against the negligent party to recover your damages.
While the initial shock and trauma of the accident can make it difficult to think clearly, it is imperative to remain as calm as possible and think about your immediate actions in the wake of the incident. The post-accident period is crucial because it can determine your chances of recovering damages through a future lawsuit. The experienced slip and fall accident lawyer at Salamati Law Firm in Los Angeles, CA has provided an important guide summarizing what to do after a slip and fall accident to protect your legal rights.
Table of Contents
Seeking Medical Care
Slip and fall accidents can result in serious physical injuries, including bone fractures, concussions, bruises and lacerations, internal bleeding, spinal cord damage, and more. It is important to seek emergency medical assistance even if you feel alright since the nature of such injuries can make delayed manifestation a very real possibility. Having a timely medical record also provides proof of your injuries in the event of a future lawsuit.
Documenting the Site of Accident
Documenting the scene of the accident is arguably one of the most crucial steps you can take after your slip and fall injury. You should try to collect as much evidence as you can, including a thorough photographic record of your injuries and the circumstances surrounding the accident site. You should also immediately contact eyewitnesses and exchange information for future legal proceedings.
Reporting the Accident
If your slip and fall accident occurred on public or commercial property, you should immediately contact the owner or manager of the property and report the accident. It is important to file a written report for future records and refrain from signing any document presented to you without your lawyer present. Reporting the accident is essential to ensure that the property owner will not deny the accident in a court of law.
Taking Prompt Action
Most states have a deadline after which you cannot file a legal claim related to a slip and fall accident. Taking prompt action regarding your slip and fall injuries is crucial because the court can dismiss any case that violates this deadline, meaning that your chances of recovering damages after this period would become negligible.
Hiring Legal Representation
After any slip and fall accident, the most important step is to hire legal representation to safeguard your rights. A competent slip and fall lawyer can not only help you file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party but also make sure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your slip and fall damages.
