Top Mistakes to Avoid After a Slip and Fall Accident
Accidents like slips and falls are quite common and can happen to anyone. But while it is common, a slip and fall accident can be fatal ranging from bruises to broken bones that can have long-term implications. If you are a victim of a slip-and-fall accident, there are two likely scenarios. Either you were negligent or the property owner/manager was negligent. If the former is the case, then you can file for compensation. This article walks you through some common mistakes to avoid as they can negatively impact your injury claim or health in the long term.
Not Hiring a Knowledgeable Lawyer
If you're going to file a case against a property owner for negligence leading to your slip and fall accident it's important you hire a knowledgeable lawyer. The personal injury lawyer at Bob Katz Law is equipped with the technical know-how to navigate the law when it comes to negligence, liability, and damages. Don't try to handle the case by yourself as due to your limited or lack of knowledge, you will be unable to answer or ask the right questions.
Failing to Document the Scene
After a slip and fall accident, it's important you take a moment to document the scene. Most people often get deterred by the property service manager, from taking pictures and videos of the scene. When you don't have evidence of the slip and fall incidents at the property or proof of negligence of the property management, it's going to be a case of your words against theirs which often does not end well.
Receiving Early Compensation
Also, if immediately after the incident the property owner orders compensation, discuss it with your attorney before accepting it. When you've received compensation, you cannot file a complaint for more compensation. So, ensure you consider all factors, especially the long-term impact of the injury. If the compensation is not worth it, it's better to decline it and let the case go to litigation.
Neglecting Medical Treatment
According to a report from the National Floor Safety Institute, over 1 million people visit the emergency room for injuries caused by slip and fall. These statistics show slip and fall accidents are common and victims seek medical treatments immediately. Neglecting medical treatment simply because the symptoms are mild is unwise. When you don't seek medical treatment immediately or follow doctors recommendations it can have an adverse effect on your health.
Overlooking the Importance of Keeping Records of Expenses or Admitting Guilt
Whatever you spend on hospital bills, therapy, medication, and so on, ensure you keep a record of it. When you don't keep a record of what you spend, you may get a compensation lower than what you spend. The court often uses your expense to determine how much compensation the property owner should pay. Also, if in the confusion of the incident, you admit fault or accept part of the blame on record, it diminishes the validity of your claim.
