What Are The Stages Of A Slip And Fall Case?

Nothing is more embarrassing than taking a spill in public. In addition to making you look foolish and clumsy, it can result in a terrific smack in the head. Sometimes, you may slip due to your own carelessness, but in other cases, the fall may be caused by someone else’s negligence.

If you were in a private home or office building, you should know that the owner or manager of the property is responsible for making sure people are safe when they visit. If a store owner failed to mop a spill up in a timely fashion, or if a homeowner failed to fix a loose step on their staircase, they may be liable for your accident. If you do take a fall that is the fault of another party, there are a few steps you should take to ensure that you are compensated for your medical expenses, time away from work, and pain and suffering.

The Slip Itself

When you take a spill, you may feel a bit disoriented. However, if you are in a business, it is important to look around you and see what caused you to slip. Is there anything in the area that might have made the floor slick? Were there warning signs? Were there objects on the floor that you would not expect to be on the floor?

Take pictures if you can and ask for the names of any witnesses. If you are in a home or business ask for the name of their insurance company. If you are in a business, they should fill out an accident report. The manager of the business should call you to follow up on your accident, but if they do not, you should call them.

Go to the Doctor

You should seek medical attention as soon as you can. Even if you feel fine, you should still go to the doctor, you may have been injured in a way that is not immediately apparent.

Be sure to save a copy of every medical bill that you have. Save the receipts from both prescription and non-prescription medications. You should have your employer document any time you have missed from work.

Calling the Insurance Company

You should call the insurance company of the property owner as soon as possible and file a claim. They may ask to record the call, but you are not obligated to let them. Once you file the claim, an adjuster will investigate the evidence in the case.  The insurance company will let you know if they are denying your claim or accepting it. They will make you an offer. Before you accept that offer, you should talk to an attorney.

Finding an Attorney

An insurance company is almost sure to lowball you when they initially make you an offer. A personal injury attorney will be well versed in dealing with insurance companies. They should be able to get you a deal that is fair. 

If your attorney is unable to get you a deal., you may want to consider filing a lawsuit against the insurance company.

Anyone who owns a home or business has a duty of care to maintain the property safely. There are many Belleville personal injury lawyers, be sure to hire one who will work hard to get you the money you are owed.

Authoritative Sources: 

https://ehssafetynewsamerica.com/2011/08/24/how-to-write-a-good-accident-or-incident-report/