It’s an unfortunate fact that slip and fall accidents are common in Missouri. Grocery stores, stairwells, workplaces – there’s no limit to where a slip and fall accident can occur. And in many cases, they’re in no way the victim’s fault. Slip and fall accidents can be caused by several factors, including poor lighting, uneven pavement, or a wet floor without proper signage. While you can’t anticipate when and where an accident will occur, you can prepare yourself with a checklist of what to do after a slip and fall.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall
An accident scene can be hectic, especially when an injury occurs. The first thing to do is to try and keep calm before following these slip and fall procedures.
Seek Medical Attention
Injuries from slip and fall accidents can be severe, but victims are often caught off guard and fail to realize the extent of their injuries. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, you should see a doctor as soon as possible to assess your injuries. Be sure to follow through with any ongoing treatment and focus on your health.
Some examples of the most common slip and fall injuries include:
- Concussions, Head Injuries, and Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Bone Fractures
- Soft Tissue Injuries – Sprains, Bruising, Swelling, and Tissue Damage
- Neck and Shoulder Injuries
- Death
Document the Incident and Preserve Evidence
After seeking medical attention, the next step is to document as much as possible. If you were severely injured and taken away in an ambulance, you may need to see if there’s a video of the incident. Take your own pictures if possible, or if someone was with you, ask them to take pictures of the scene and your injuries. Save personal belongings, such as torn clothing or broken glasses, as evidence of the extent of your fall. Ask for the contact information of any witnesses present as well as the property owner. Write down a description of your version of the incident as soon as you’re able to, which can include details that might be easily forgotten.
File a Report
An important part of documentation for a slip and fall accident is an accident report. Whether the slip and fall happened at work, during a shopping trip, or at a restaurant, be sure to get a detailed written report that includes the location, date and time, and a description of the incident. Don’t forget to obtain a copy of the report for your own records. If a manager or property owner refuses to file a report of the accident, you should contact the police to file an official report for your records.
Consult an Attorney
Slip and fall accidents can happen any time, anywhere. If you were involved in a slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more – even if you are partially at fault. Handling a slip and fall case can be complicated, but an experienced Missouri slip and fall attorney is your best asset in seeking compensation for your injuries. Your attorney can negotiate with insurance companies, file paperwork on your behalf, and go to court if necessary while you focus on healing.
At Dreyer & Tinney, we stay by your side during the entire process to get results after slip and fall accidents. Contact us today to schedule a FREE consultation and to see what our team can do to fight for you.