Slipping while running an errand can be frightening. Unfortunately, slip and fall accidents are common and can result in broken bones or worse.
If you’re considering a lawsuit to compensate you for your injuries, you may wonder what to do after a slip and fall accident.
Below, our New Jersey personal injury attorneys at Wiley Lavender Maknoor, PC, describe the steps you should take after a slip and fall accident to make the best claim for compensation.
If you have questions, please contact our experienced slip and fall lawyers today.
Seek Medical Treatment
You might be wondering, what should I do after a slip and fall accident? First, seek medical attention. Emergency medical personnel may take you to a hospital immediately. Sometimes, however, you might not realize the extent of your injuries right away—so you might be injured and not know it.
It’s essential to see a doctor to diagnose your condition and set a course of treatment soon after the accident. During a claim or a lawsuit, the opposing side will want to see medical records to prove that you were injured during the fall.
So by seeking help right after a fall, you are doing the right thing and helping to build your case.
Try to Determine the Cause of the Fall
Try to determine the cause of your fall. Was there a wet floor? A hazard? Finding out what caused your fall will help you determine whether you are a victim of someone’s negligence.
Report the Accident
The police might have already taken an initial report if emergency services responded to your accident. You should also notify the property owner where the accident happened and keep proof that you informed them.
Photograph the Scene
Take as many pictures as you can of the scene. If you’re injured, you should ask a trusted friend or relative to take photos of the area. It’s important to do this as soon as possible after the accident so that the pictures accurately reflect the conditions that caused your fall.
Gather Witnesses
If there were any witnesses, take down their names and contact information. You or your lawyer will want to get statements from them about what they observed.
Document Everything
You should write down everything you remember about your accident as soon as you can. This way, you’ll have a record of what happened that was recorded right after the incident. Do not provide this document to anyone except your lawyer.
Be Cautious When Making Statements
Be careful what you say at the scene of the incident. Don’t say anything that indicates you are taking responsibility for the fall. And after your initial statements to the police or the property owner, do not make any additional statements without speaking with an attorney.
The property owner’s insurance company will likely try to contact you for a statement. However, you should talk with a slip and fall attorney before answering questions from an insurance company or signing a statement.
Hire a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer
You should consider hiring a personal injury attorney if you’re wondering what to do after a slip and fall accident. An injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and collect evidence.
It’s important to be forthcoming with your attorney, even if you might have been partially at fault.
Contact Your Hometown Injury Lawyers After a Slip and Fall Accident
When you’re injured, you need an experienced and accessible slip and fall lawyer who can fight for your rights to compensation under the law.
The North New Jersey slip and fall attorneys at Wiley Lavender Maknoor, PC, will find the best legal remedy to meet your needs. Contact us online today or call 732-494-6099.