According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, slip-and-fall accidents account for 26% of workplace injuries and are among the top three preventable injury-related deaths. Injuries from slip-and-fall can be painful, incapacitating, and take a long time to heal.
After this type of accident, minor wounds can heal quickly, but they can also cause chronic pain and discomfort. These wounds may develop into serious, complex injuries that make it challenging to resume your regular activities.
So, when an individual suffers a slip and fall injury, it is crucial to take appropriate measures to protect their well-being and legal rights. Here are the steps victims should follow as they seek a potential claim:
Check Yourself for Injuries
It is imperative to take falls seriously. Before you try to move, it is vital to perform a visual inspection for any apparent indicators of injury. You should also pay attention to any “warning signs” your body sends you, including discomfort, weakness, difficulty moving, etc.
Slip and fall accidents can cause damages such as:
- Shattered bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Neck and back fractures
- Harm to joints, muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissue
- Abrasions and lacerations
Avoid attempting to get to your feet too quickly or moving around excessively before you can determine the extent of your wounds. Ignoring symptoms can lead to a second fall and worsen existing injuries.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Immediate medical attention is one of the most vital things you can do after a slip-and-fall accident. One reason is that injuries are not always evident, and a doctor can help identify particular issues and recommend treatment.
Moreover, visiting a chiropractor at a chiropractic clinic immediately also helps establish credibility in your case. Delaying treatment may lead to the defense claiming that your injuries are caused by another cause other than your slip and fall accident.
Maintain a Case File.
Store all case-related records, such as
- Medical bills
- Records of other accident-related costs,
- Communication with insurance companies
- Records that document absences from work resulting in lost income.
Write down the events of that day that preceded your mishap. If you were shopping before you fell, record your whereabouts, what you ate and drank, and the circumstances surrounding your fall.
Report Your Accident to Appropriate Authorities
If a slip-and-fall accident happens at work or in a public area, it is critical to report the event to the proper authorities. Workplaces must adhere to specific standards to ensure the safety of their employees. If these standards and protections are not met, the matter must be reported and addressed to the code.
OSHA, the Department of Labor’s regulatory body, oversees and develops labor safety standards for the United States workforce. If the site where you were injured violates these laws, you may be entitled to assistance with medical bills or a settlement due to their fault.
Document the Accident Scene
Take pictures of the accident area, including any dangers that contributed to your fall, like wet floors, rough surfaces, or dim lighting. Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident, as their testimony could be valuable for your case. Also, record the accident’s date, time, location, and any relevant details about the incident’s circumstances leading up to the fall.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Contact a lawyer who is skilled in personal injury lawsuits. Tell them your story; they can assist in determining your next course of action. Do this instantly. Many people make the mistake of waiting until a negligent party admits fault or refuses to pay for medical treatment.
Proving a slip and fall claim post-accident becomes significantly more challenging. It is easier for your representative to obtain the facts the sooner they start representing you.
Furthermore, you must file a claim for your incident if you were hurt. The party responsible for the accident should cover medical and related expenses. An experienced attorney can help you secure the compensation you deserve for your injury if the other party is at fault.
