American Legal System
Although often the comedic relief used in comedy shows, there is nothing funny about a slip and fall accident. Many of these incidents are often the result of negligence on the part of the property owner. Not only do slip and fall accidents end up leaving victims with serious injuries, they are also responsible for exacerbating any existing injuries the victim may have had. This all leads to high medical bills and loss of income if the victim is unable to work. Anyone who has been injured in a slip and fall accident should contact a premises liability lawyer to find out what legal options they may have.
Medical Attention
The first thing a slip and fall victim should do is seek out medical attention, even if you do not think you have been injured. It is not uncommon for there to be delayed symptoms from injuries. It can take hours – even days – for the victim to begin to realize they have been hurt. This delay in treatment could end up causing serious complications.
Having medical records verifying your injuries from the beginning will also help prove your case should you decide to pursue legal action against the property owner.
Photos
If you are able, it can be critical to your case to have photos and/or videos of the accident scene. If you are physically unable because of your injuries, have a trusted family member or friend take them.
These photos should be taken immediately before anyone can quickly repair the issue that caused the accident. If you fail to obtain this physical evidence, you may have a difficult time proving your case.
Document Your Recovery
It is very helpful to a premises liability lawyer when a client keeps a diary or journal that documents their recovery. This includes their pain levels each day, difficulties their injuries are causing in their daily life, medical treatments they have, etc.
This journal can show just how much of an impact your injuries had on your day-to-day life, which will be crucial to obtain the maximum amount of compensation you may be entitled to.
Stay Off Social Media
While you are recovering, it is important not to give the property owner’s insurance company any opportunity at evidence that could look like you are not as injured as you claim to be. One of the biggest sources of evidence insurance companies use are victim’s social media accounts. Comments, photos, videos, etc., can all be used against you. This is why you should avoid posting anything about your accident or activities until your case is resolved.
Legal Help Is Here
If you have been injured in an accident, is in your best interest to speak with an experienced premises liability lawyer to find out what legal options you may have against the party responsible for your injuries. Your lawyer will provide the professional legal guidance you need to ensure you get the maximum financial compensation you are entitled to in an insurance settlement or jury award. Thank you to our friends at Council & Associates, LLC for the information about premises liability claims.