Many people consider a slip and fall accident to be a freak occurrence or one that is related to poor conditions or unforeseen hazards, but the reality is that slip and fall injuries can happen under a wide range of circumstances. A minor slip is usually not a problem, but a serious fall can leave you with life-changing injuries.
There are several steps you can take after a slip and fall accident to help improve your situation in the following weeks. Calling a Seattle personal-injury lawyer may be one of the best ways to help your case following a slip and fall accident.
At Richard McKinney Law, we help people suffering from injuries due to another person or business’s negligence, and we can work with you to analyze your case and determine if you may have a valid claim for medical expenses. Richard McKinney has been practicing law for more than 40 years, and he has the necessary experience to fight for your rights. Call us today at 844-933-1605 to schedule an appointment.
Here are five steps to take immediately following a slip and fall accident:
- Seek Medical Assistance
The most important step to take after a slip and fall is to get adequate medical attention. Your health and well-being are important, and if your injuries are serious, it is critical to seek treatment immediately.
Keep any medical bills in the event that you decide to claim back the expenses. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, up to 15,000 people over the age of 65 died in falls during 2005, so you should treat the accident seriously.
- Report the Incident
If you fell in a public place, such as in a store, apartment block or someone else’s house, it is important to report the accident, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You can use the official report as part of your civil lawsuit should it become necessary.
- Record Details
Take photographs and record all the details at the scene of the fall. Make sure the information and photographs are as accurate as possible. Take photographs even if the hazard is not clear, and record the time and date of the incident.
- Track Witnesses
Get contact details from anyone who may have witnessed the accident. An independent witness to your fall may be able to prove your claims at a later stage.
- Compile Evidence
Consider the clothing and shoes you were wearing at the time as evidence, and keep them in a safe place.
A slip and fall accident can be traumatic and leave you with serious injuries. It can also have hefty financial consequences.
An experienced Seattle personal-injury attorney may be able to help you recover medical expenses and lost wages. At Richard McKinney Law, we specialize in helping the injured. Call us today at 844-933-1605 to schedule an appointment.