Going to the grocery store or even a friend’s house doesn’t seem like an especially hazardous activity. Unfortunately, slips, trips and falls can occur at any time and in any location.
If you slip, trip or fall on someone else’s property, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your ability to recover damages for your injuries and losses.
1. Take care of yourself first
If you are injured from a fall, the priority should be your health and wellness. Ask for someone to call for emergency services if you need them or take yourself to the hospital or doctor. The medical records will serve as evidence if you file an injury claim.
2. Report the accident
If you fell at a business, be sure to report the fall to the business manager or owner. Most businesses will fill out an accident report, including all the pertinent information about what happened. Be sure to request a copy of this report.
3. Collect evidence
If possible, use your phone to take pictures of where your accident occurred. You want to get photos of whatever caused you to fall. Be sure to take pictures of your visible injuries, too.
The clothing you are wearing when the slip and fall occurs should not be thrown away, repaired or washed. You need to keep these as evidence, too, which will help to prove the severity of your injuries.
Protecting your rights after a slip and fall accident
If you slip, trip, or fall on someone else’s property, be sure to take the right steps to protect your rights. You can also speak to someone about your situation to learn what options you have to recover compensation. Doing this will help you get the settlement you are entitled to.