Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere – in a store, on a sidewalk, at a friend’s house – and unsafe property conditions can lead to serious injuries.  Many people mistakenly assume that it was their own fault, not realizing that businesses, homeowners, and landlords are responsible for maintaining property conditions.

Your actions after a slip and fall can impact your ability to obtain a fair recovery for your losses. Consider following these recommended steps:

1. Seek medical treatment. If you’ve been hurt, it’s important to see a doctor for treatment, and to properly document your injuries.
2. Report the accident to a manager. Also ask the manager, owner or landlord to write a report, and request a copy before you leave.
3. Inspect the scene. What caused you to fall?
4. Take pictures. Photograph the floor and the area around you as well as any injuries you sustained.
5. Identify witnesses. Ask around and obtain contact information. You may need their testimony to verify your version of events.
6. Document everything. Jot down what you were doing right before the accident, the way you fell, what shoes you were wearing, and any other details, including the exact time and date.
7. Be mindful of what you say. Other than completing a written report, decline to give statements.  Do not place blame—and don’t take any. Decline to give a statement to an insurance company until you’ve spoken to an attorney.
8. Call an attorney. When considering legal action, the best person to have on your side is an experienced attorney.

Taking these measures will put you in the best possible position to protect yourself and later recover your losses.

The attorneys at Wescott Law have decades of experience representing clients who have sustained injuries in slip and fall accidents. They will help you through the process and strive to maximize your recovery.