Slip and fall accidents can happen at any moment, and most of the time they cause serious injuries. Whether it is a slip on a slippery surface, a trip on uneven ground, or a fall due to poor lighting, the actions you take immediately following the accident can make a tremendous difference in your ability to recover compensation.
Knowledgeable slip and fall lawyers at DFW Injury Lawyers can assist you with the legal process and prevent you from committing common errors that may ruin your case. This article emphasizes the five primary things you must not do following a slip and fall accident.
1. Don’t Leave the Scene Immediately
Remaining on the scene following a slip and fall accident is essential. Not reporting the occurrence before leaving the premises makes the establishment of the facts for your accident difficult later on. Not reporting the accident to the owner, manager, or supervisor of the facility promptly can also jeopardize your case.
If possible, inform the manager or property owner of the incident and ask them to provide an accident report so that you can file an insurance claim and seek additional action through law in the future. Popping off too fast could be misinterpreted to signify that the accident was not as serious or that you caused it, and this could hurt your case.
2. Don’t Forget to Seek Medical Attention
Even if you’re fine immediately after the accident, it’s not advisable to skip a medical examination. Injuries from slip and fall accidents, such as head trauma, sprains, or fractures, may not show any symptoms immediately. Some injuries can worsen over time, and delaying medical treatment could reduce the credibility of your case.
In addition, seeking medical attention as soon as possible helps document your injuries, providing important evidence that they were caused by the slip and fall accident. Your doctor will be able to identify any underlying injuries that could have long-term effects.
3. Don’t Admit Fault
In the aftermath of a slip and fall accident, it’s natural to want to apologize or try to explain what happened but not admit fault. Many people feel compelled to say things like “I’m sorry” or “I wasn’t paying attention,” but such statements can be used against you if you decide to pursue a legal claim.
It’s important to let the evidence speak for itself. The property owner or their insurance company might try to use your admission to shift blame onto you, arguing that you were at fault for the accident. Instead, focus on reporting the facts of the incident and leave the determination of fault to the investigators and legal professionals.
4. Don’t Delay Documenting the Scene
One of the most crucial things you can do after a slip and fall accident is to document the scene. Failing to take photos or videos of the area where the accident occurred can leave you without critical evidence.
If the property is poorly maintained (such as a wet floor, cracked pavement, or uneven surface), take pictures of the hazard as soon as possible, ideally before it is cleaned up or repaired. If there are witnesses, get their contact information and ask for a statement.
5. Don’t Settle Too Quickly
After a slip and fall accident, you may be tempted to accept a quick settlement from the property owner’s insurance company. However, settling too early can be detrimental to your case.
The insurance company may offer a low settlement amount, hoping that you will accept it without understanding the full extent of your injuries or the long-term costs. It’s essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney before agreeing to any settlement.