It’s sad but true: Clumsy or not, you are likely to suffer a slip and fall accident at some point in your life. As reported by the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), falls cause about 8 million emergency room calls each. Slip and fall accidents make up over one million of these visits.

Chances are it won’t even be your fault because slips and falls happen everywhere. Sometimes, an accident on someone else’s property is a consequence of the owner’s negligence. In this case, you could be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, absence from work, and even the physical or emotional pain and suffering you had to go through due to your injuries.

This type of personal injury case can be categorized as a premises liability case. Not every claim is valid, though. So, if you have suffered a premises liability injury, you should best consult an experienced attorney to make sure you are entitled to legal compensation. 

You can get free legal advice for a premises liability injury all across the USA – in New York, New Orleans, or wherever the accident occurred. The lawyers will provide you with a free analysis of your claim, and if it is deemed valid, you can choose to proceed with the lawsuit.

Winning is more feasible with an experienced accident and injury attorney on your side. However, you can help too. Taking the proper steps in a timely manner gives you the best chances of building a persuasive legal case. 

Taking the Right Steps

The first step after any slip and fall accident is seeking medical attention. Your health and well-being must always be your number one priority. Besides, your injuries should be properly documented in case you want to file a premises liability lawsuit.

The next step is to report the accident. If the accident took place in a supermarket, talk to the manager, and if it happened on private property, ask for the owner or a landlord. Always request that you get all the details in writing. A written report will be a piece of valid evidence in case of a lawsuit, too. 

Look for potential witnesses. The more, the merrier! Their statements can help you prove your claim. Write down their names and contact information (address, phone number, and email).

If you have your phone with you, it would be wise to take a few pictures of the precise location where you slipped and fell. Pay special attention to anything that might have contributed to your accident, such as uneven flooring, wet or oily surfaces, spills, or loose rugs and mats.

Even the clothes and shoes you were wearing at the time of the accident can prove to be relevant pieces of evidence, so store them away in a safe place. Hopefully, it is not your favorite outfit. 

Most importantly, keep calm at all times. Do not argue with the property owner or manager. Restrain yourself from placing blame. Avoid posting anything on social media or giving any statements until you have consulted an attorney. 

Lawyering Up

Choosing a law firm has its challenges, too. Slip and fall cases are notoriously difficult to prove, and that is why you have to ensure you have the best attorney on your side – from start to finish! 

Ask around and find the most successful law firm in your proximity. Ensure that the lawyers you choose to represent you have the required knowledge and experience. A track record of success is an enormous plus as well.

An experienced legal team will help you handle confusing and complex paperwork, make sure all the deadlines are met, and keep you posted about your case while you’re focusing on getting better. They will speak in a language you can actually understand and not treat you as a case number!

You are highly unlikely to get the money you deserve without professional legal assistance. Why should you risk having to pay the medical bills if the accident was not your fault? After all, most law firms work on a contingency basis – this means that they agree to collect the payment only if you win or settle the case.

Avoiding Slips

Slips and falls might not be your fault, but you should still give your best to prevent them. Make sure your footwear fits properly, or, better yet, wear slip-resistant shoes. Slow down, and watch where you are going. It is the winter season, and winter without snow and rain is like a Super Bowl show without Beyonce. Therefore, prep yourself for the most slippery time of the year! 

It’s better to be safe than sorry. Your legal team will help you claim compensation for a personal injury, but no one can ease your pain, restore your mobility, or resurrect you. Take care!