Slip and fall accidents happen unexpectedly, whether on wet floors in a grocery store or uneven sidewalks on someone else’s property. These incidents might seem minor at first, but they can lead to severe injuries like head trauma, soft tissue injuries, or even broken bones.
Handling the aftermath of a fall incident can be challenging, especially if you want to ensure your slip and fall case results in a successful claim. Unfortunately, many people wonder, “Is the slip and fall my fault?” and end up making critical mistakes during this time that can significantly weaken their personal injury claim.
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid After A Slip and Fall Accident:
Serious injuries are more common with slip and fall accidents than you might think. Did you know, floors and flooring materials contribute directly to more than 2 million fall injuries each year? This means you can be at risk too, and without the right help, getting out of such situations can be a challenge on their own.
Here’s a closer look at five common mistakes to avoid after a slip and fall accident and how to safeguard your legal rights.
1. Failing to Seek Medical Attention Immediately
One of the biggest mistakes after a slip and fall accident is delaying medical care. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not be obvious but can worsen over time, leading to significant pain or long-term complications.
Prompt medical care is not only essential for your health but also a cornerstone of your slip and fall claim. Medical records from an emergency room visit, doctor’s appointment, or follow-up appointments serve as critical evidence that links your injuries to the fall.
Without this documentation, insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t serious or even unrelated to the fall incident.
Moreover, skipping medical treatment can harm your chances of a fair settlement. Insurance adjusters often scrutinize cases for gaps in medical care, using delays as an excuse to devalue your claim.
By seeking immediate medical attention and following your prescribed treatment plan—including physical therapy sessions or additional medical evaluations—you strengthen your case and protect your health.
2. Neglecting to Report the Accident
Another common mistake is failing to report the fall accident to the property owner, manager, or relevant authority. Whether the fall occurred on private property or in a public space, creating an official record is essential.
An incident report documents the circumstances of the accident and establishes a timeline for when and where the fall occurred. Did you know that a simple settlement for a sprained ankle in a slip and fall accident can range from $10,000 to $50,000?
Without this official record, proving negligence in your slip and fall case can become challenging. Property owners or their insurance representatives may dispute your version of events if no immediate report was filed.
Always inform the property owner or manager as soon as possible, and request a copy of the incident report. This step is equally important for protecting others from potential fall injuries caused by the same hazardous conditions.
3. Overlooking the Importance of Gathering Evidence
Failing to gather evidence at the accident scene is one of the most avoidable yet damaging mistakes in a slip and fall injury claim. Critical evidence is needed to prove negligence, which is a fundamental part of personal injury litigation.
Start by taking photographs of the hazardous condition that caused your fall, such as poor lighting, wet floors, or broken steps. These images can demonstrate the property owner’s failure to maintain a safe environment.
Additionally, collect contact information from witnesses who saw the fall or noticed the unsafe condition. Their statements can add credibility to your case.
Equally important is keeping any physical evidence, such as clothing or footwear, damaged during the fall. Documenting the exact conditions when the fall occurred—weather, lighting, and time of day—also helps paint a full picture of the incident.
Skipping these steps can make it harder to prove negligence and establish liability during legal proceedings.
4. Admitting Fault or Speculating About the Accident
In the moments following a slip and fall, it’s natural to feel flustered or even embarrassed. However, admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the accident can significantly weaken your personal injury case.
For instance, saying something like “I wasn’t looking where I was going” or “Maybe I tripped over my own feet” can be used by insurance companies to argue against your claim.
Instead, stick to the facts when describing the incident to the property owner, witnesses, or an insurance adjuster. Avoid making recorded statements without consulting a knowledgeable personal injury attorney, as even small inconsistencies in your account can be exploited during insurance negotiations.
Remember, determining fault is part of the legal process. Let your experienced attorney gather the necessary evidence and prove negligence on your behalf.
5. Attempting to Handle the Case Without an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
One of the biggest mistakes people make after a slip and fall accident is trying to navigate the legal process alone. While it might seem straightforward, personal injury litigation involves complex steps like gathering evidence, proving negligence, and negotiating with insurance representatives.
Without the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney, you risk settling for less than you deserve—or worse, having your claim denied altogether.
A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, physical therapy costs, and even emotional distress.
They’ll ensure all relevant details are included in your claim and negotiate aggressively with insurance adjusters to secure a fair settlement. Additionally, an attorney can help you avoid common mistakes, like admitting fault or accepting an unfair offer, that could derail your case.
Don’t underestimate the value of legal representation. Hiring a personal injury lawyer early on can make the difference between a successful claim and a stressful experience.
At Bourassa Law Group, our other top three resources include brain injury lawyers, semi-truck accident attorneys, and even estate planning attorneys in Nevada
Additional Steps to Strengthen Your Slip and Fall Case
While avoiding these common mistakes is vital, there are other steps you should take to build a strong case:
1. Keep Detailed Records:
Document all medical bills, transportation costs, and other expenses related to your fall injury slip. Accurate records demonstrate the financial impact of the fall accident.
2. Follow Up on Medical Treatment:
Attending follow-up appointments and sticking to your prescribed treatment plan is crucial. Skipping these steps can weaken your claim and harm your recovery.
3. Avoid Social Media:
Refrain from posting about the accident or your injuries online. Even innocent posts can be misconstrued by insurance companies.
4. Consult Early:
Contact an experienced slip and fall attorney as soon as possible to avoid critical mistakes and streamline the legal process.
Wrapping It Up
A slip and fall accident can disrupt your life, leading to severe injuries, significant medical expenses, and emotional distress. However, by avoiding these five common mistakes and taking proactive steps, you can protect your legal rights and improve your chances of a successful claim.
Seek medical attention immediately, report the incident promptly, and gather strong evidence. Avoid admitting fault or handling the case without legal help. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney ensures you’re fully prepared to navigate the complexities of personal injury litigation.
Remember, the legal process can feel daunting, but with the right approach, you can achieve a fair settlement that covers your medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
Prioritize your health, stay organized, and consult a trusted attorney to secure the best possible outcome for your slip and fall case.
Get The Best Slip and Fall Attorneys at Bourassa Law Group
Our professionals at Boruassa Law Group understand how essential prompt medical treatment, proper medical documentation, and fair compensation are. We are here to help you out at all times, ensuring you get the results you want. Our experts have years of experience with slip and fall accidents and ensure that you get the best outcomes from these unfortunate scenarios.
1-800-870-8910