Slip and fall accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere, and anytime. If you slipped and fell on someone else’s property, you are not alone. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, more than one million emergency room visits every year are because of slip and fall accidents.
Many people involved in a slip and fall accident often neglect to take the necessary steps that can support their case if they plan to pursue legal action. Did you slip and fall on someone else’s property in New York City or surrounding areas? Contact our NYC trip, slip, and fall lawyers today to get the assistance you need. We can help you navigate the legal system if you want to obtain compensation for your injuries and damages.
What Should You Do After a Slip and Fall Accident?
Let’s discuss the six critical steps to take after a slip and fall accident to ensure that you protect your legal rights and get the compensation you deserve.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
The first and most important step after a slip and fall accident is to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, you should still seek medical attention as some injuries may not become apparent until a few days later. Not seeking medical attention can lead to the insurance company and the court denying any claims that you may make later. Therefore, it is essential to document your injury and seek medical attention.
Determine What Hazards Caused the Accident
The next step is to determine what hazards caused the accident. Take note of the conditions that led to the fall and try to discover what caused it. It may be a wet floor, icy pavement, or uneven walkway. Identifying the cause of the accident is critical to supporting a claim for compensation later on.
Take Pictures of the Hazards
While still at the scene of the accident, take pictures of the hazard(s) that caused your slip and fall. Take pictures of the area immediately surrounding where the accident occurred, including any signs or lack of signs that may contribute to your injury. Taking pictures will provide visual evidence that may help support a claim that the owner of the property was negligent in maintaining the premises.
Speak With Witnesses
If there were witnesses to the accident, try to speak with them and ask for their contact information. Witness statements are valuable in providing an objective view of the accident. They can help corroborate your version of events and support your claim for compensation.
File an Injury Report
File an injury report with the property owner or the staff who manages the property where the accident happened. Ensure that a copy of the report is given to you for record keeping. The purpose of an injury report is to document the occurrence, which can be used to provide your claims with credibility.
Hire a Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer
Finally, it is essential to hire an experienced slip and fall accident lawyer. Slip and fall cases can be complex, and having legal representation is crucial in ensuring that your interests are protected. A slip and fall accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process, handle all communication with the insurance adjusters or the other party’s lawyer, and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
Get the Legal Representation You Deserve
Slip and fall accidents can be life-altering, and if you are involved in one, it is imperative to take the necessary steps to protect your legal rights. Taking the necessary steps will ensure that your injuries are documented and that you can receive the compensation to which you are entitled. Contact our lawyers at Leitner Varughese PLLC so we can provide you with the legal representation necessary to protect your interests. Call 212-671-1110 to schedule a free case review.
