What Mistakes Should I Avoid After a Slip and Fall Accident?

What Injuries Are Sustained in a Slip and Fall?

A slip and fall accident can happen anywhere and for generally any reason. Whether you are in a supermarket, restaurant, hotel pool, or someone’s personal residence, you could fall and injure yourself because of:

• Loose floorboards
• Wet, sticky, or icy floors
• Bulging carpet
• Loose mats or rugs
• Uneven flooring
• Exposed wiring or other hazards
• Poor lighting

Depending on where you are, how you fell, and the environment around you, you could end up seriously injuring yourself. The following are some injuries commonly sustained in a slip and fall accident.

• Bruises
• Cuts
• Fractures
• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Neck injuries
• TBIs (traumatic brain injuries)

The potential for extensive injury and medical expenses is the reason it is so important to file a claim against the property owner and receive compensation for your associated costs.

What Are Some Things I Should Avoid After a Slip and Fall?

You can pursue compensation from a property owner after a slip and fall but some things may hinder your ability to receive damages. There are several common mistakes that people tend to make after they injure themselves in a slip and fall. Avoid the following after your accident.

1. Admitting fault. You may be inclined to immediately take the blame for the accident, saying something like “I should have been more careful!” or “I’m such a klutz.” Any admission of fault can harm your case.
2. Neglecting medical treatment. Many people neglect to go to the doctor out of pride or because they appear to be fine. However, it is important to get evaluated.
3. Posting about the accident. With today’s technology, almost everything ends up online. If you post about your accident or injuries it could come back to bite you.
4. Refusing to hire a lawyer. Many people believe they don’t need an attorney for a simple slip and fall case but that can be detrimental to your case. Work with a skilled attorney to ensure you have the best chance of getting compensated for your injuries.
5. Holding off on filing. You should file a claim or lawsuit as quickly as possible. Waiting can result in lost or tainted evidence and witnesses may begin to forget the details of the event.
6. Failing to keep records. You should document everything about the incident. Take photos and videos from the scene, speak with witnesses, get copies of any reports made, keep tabs on your doctor’s visits, diagnosis, treatments, and more. This information can prove extremely beneficial in your case.

Contact a skilled attorney today to acquire legal counsel and discover the important steps to take after being injured in a slip and fall.