What to Do After a Slip and Fall

Slip and falls are one of the most common accidents that businesses deal with in terms of lawsuits, medical procedures, and other practices. It’s often important to be prepared in case you get in one yourself. Failing to follow certain steps could result in long term harm and defects down the road, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Get medical help

So clearly the first step you want to take is dealing medical emergency hand. There are many injuries that could have taken place, including but not limited to:

  • Head injuries
  • Wrist strain (If you caught yourself on your hands)
  • Back and neck injuries
  • Whiplash related pains

It’s best to deal with these immediate before they become a problem later. Never walk away with pain or problems that haven’t been treated.

Let someone know

If you’re at someone’s home seek help from whoever is around and let the home owner know what’s happened. If it’s at a store report it to an employee and make sure they report it to management so it can be documented in case you need to access that documentation later or a simple accident evolves into something more. It’s never good to leave everyone in the dark. When you need help get help, and let someone know what happened so they can help remedy the situation. Make sure you obtain copy of any documentation before you leave.

Take photos and gather evidence

Take photos so later you can show the circumstances under which you fell. Was there a wet floor sign on a slippery surface, were there debris or other trip or slip hazards. Was every effort made to make the area safe and prevent this from happening to you. Also don’t be afraid to ask for information from nearby witnesses who may have seen something you might have missed.

Store your clothing

Immediately upon returning home store the clothing you were wearing somewhere safe. It may come in handy later and you won’t want it to be in any different of a condition than when you were wearing. This will also answer questions about your fall in court later, especially your shoes and pants.

Call an attorney

If you are seriously injured you may be eligible to receive compensation, but you will have to prove it in the court of law. Chances are you won’t want to take on the corporate lawyers yourself. You need a professional who is experienced in law and court room politics. You want your case in the hands of a professional. Don’t wait either, but call an attorney as soon as you are able.

Don’t wait

Make sure to take all these necessary steps immediately. The longer you wait and the more time you place between the present and your accident the harder it will be to prove and win.