Coming off of your feet is a scary experience. One moment you are walking along, the next you are trying to catch yourself as you fall. What you do immediately following any slip and fall accident can make a difference in whether a claim is paid out or a lawsuit is successful. Here is what you need to do after a slip and fall.
1. Seek Medical Attention
The first thing you need to do is seek medical attention, especially if the incident occurred on someone else’s property. While you may not feel as though you have been hurt, there are some injuries that will not show up for days.
Obtaining professional attention serves a couple purposes. You will be properly diagnosed and treated for any injuries that you have sustained, and you will have a running record that you can use for an insurance claim or lawsuit should you find it necessary to file one.
2. Look at the Area
If you are not severely injured and have time to do so, survey the area of your fall. Note the potential cause for your slip. Are there cracks in the sidewalk? Is the pavement uneven? Maybe you slipped due to loose carpeting or spilled food. Write down what you see and your version of the incident while it is still fresh in your mind.
3. Look for Witnesses
It is a normal reaction to be a bit embarrassed when you slip and fall in front of people, but they may be potential witnesses in a lawsuit. If there was anyone who saw the accident, ask for their name and contact information. If no one saw you fall but saw your recovery, still get their information. They may be able to testify to your pain and suffering.
4. Take Photos
Your written account of the incident and description of the area may not be enough. If you have your cell phone available, take photos of the surrounding area as soon as possible. You want to be sure that you get photos of the area’s state of repair at the time of your fall, not after the property owner has had time to make corrections.
5. Follow the Right Steps
If you have had an accident on someone’s property, you should notify them immediately. Do not make any effort to resolve the issue, but do notify the manager or owner. If someone on site makes any type of comment about similar accidents happening before or makes you aware that they knew about the hazard that caused your fall, make a note of the person’s name and what was said.
If you have had a slip and fall accident in Atlanta, reach out to our team of attorneys. We can assist you in dealing with insurance agencies and, if it becomes necessary, filing a personal injury claim in the local court. Call today and schedule an appointment for a free case evaluation and discover more about your rights under the law.
