5 Steps to Take for Legal Recourse After a Slip, Trip, or Fall

Accidents happen, but when you find yourself injured due to a slip, trip, or fall on someone else’s property, you need to know which steps you need to take to protect your well-being. While there are many things you can do to promote the healing of injuries and support your need for financial compensation, focusing on five essential steps is often advised.

Whether you were hurt in a public place or injured on a private residence pool deck, a Delray Beach personal injury attorney can negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf or fight for your interests in a Florida court of law. You don’t have to go through the recovery process alone, there are professionals who can use their expertise to help you.

Step 1: Seek Medical Care

Injuries need to be cared for. If you’ve been hurt, seek medical attention promptly. This is true even when an injury seems minor. There are many people who felt their injury was too minor to require care only to have their symptoms worsen. It’s essential to receive a thorough medical evaluation after any accident, both to heal property and because health records will serve as evidence if you choose to pursue a personal injury claim.

Step 2: Report the Incident

If the accident occurred in a public place, report the incident to a manager or staff member without delay so they can draft an incident report. Be sure to ask for a copy of the resort for your own records as well. When an accident occurs at a private residence, inform the property owner or occupant.

Step 3: Document the Scene

As soon as you are able to do so, which will vary depending on the level of harm sustained, document the scene of the accident. This could include taking notes on what happened and capturing photographs of the area where the accident occurred, including any hazards such as cracked walking surfaces, or inadequate lighting.

Step 4: Record Witness Information

Should you file a claim, witness statements can help to validate your version of events. Collect witness names and contact information so they can be contracted later to corroborate the circumstances surrounding your slip, trip, or fall injury. The testimony of witnesses may provide additional perspectives when an insurance adjuster or legal professional representing another party involved analyzes the strength of your claim.

Step 5: Consult with an Injury Lawyer

Once you’ve taken the initial steps, consult with a Delray Beach personal injury attorney. A seasoned lawyer can assess your case and provide legal advice. A skilled attorney will gather the necessary evidence and navigate any and all legal complexities in order for you to secure the compensation you deserve.

Is it time for you to access the financial recovery you need to pay off slip, trip, or fall medical expenses? Talk through best practices following an injury with the attorneys at Earnhart Law. We have over 30 years of legal experience to support your recovery needs. Call 561-265-2220 or contact us online today.