Slips and falls often result in serious injuries to the victim, making it crucial to take steps to protect one’s right to compensation as soon as possible. There are several things you or a family member can immediately take action on that will help begin establishing evidence for your claim. Remember, Florida relies on comparative fault for personal injury cases in the Orlando area. This means you have to prove negligence on the part of the property’s owner where you got hurt.
Because suffering a fall on someone else’s property doesn’t mean they are liable for your injuries, you should also contact a reputable slip and fall attorney to represent you. They can significantly increase your chances of recovering compensation for your injuries and ensure no critical facts go unnoticed in your case.
Immediately Seek Medical Treatment
Anyone who suffers a slip and fall accident needs to be evaluated by a doctor ASAP. Delaying or refusing to be assessed could jeopardize your entire claim. In addition, the insurance company will likely try to convince a jury that you weren’t seriously hurt.
Follow Through on Doctor Appointments and Treatment Recommendations
One of the best ways to build a solid injury case is to attend all of your scheduled medical appointments consistently. Plaintiffs who regularly skip these visits give jurors the impression that their injuries are not all that severe or debilitating. The same goes for treatment recommendations. If your doctor feels physical therapy is necessary, don’t hesitate to do it.
Inform the Property Owner or Managing Agency
Anytime you suffer a slip and fall on someone else’s property, whether at a store or your neighbor’s home, inform them of what happened as soon as possible. Depending on where your accident took place will determine who you should notify. For example, if you fell into a hidden hole in the ground at your apartment complex, you can contact the leasing manager. You don’t need to go into great detail. Just let them know you were injured in a fall on their property and discuss the details with your attorney later. If you say too much, they may use your words against you.
Take Photos
Pictures can say a thousand words and share the emotional impact of your accident through shots of your injuries and the conditions that led to your slip and fall. Environmental evidence can disappear quickly, which is why photographs are so important. For example, maybe there was soap on the floor in the mall’s bathroom. Without a picture to show its presence, the next cleaning person to come through will destroy this evidence when mopping.
Get Contact Information of Witnesses to Your Slip and Fall
Many times, those who suffer a slip and fall accident do so in the presence of others. These witnesses can provide testimony that supports your account of events leading to your injuries. Be sure to get their contact information, including their name and phone number. This should include any employees who saw you get hurt while visiting their business.
Don’t Give a Recorded Statement!
Recorded statements detailing what happened in your slip and fall accident experience should not be given until you have spoken with a lawyer and they are present when you do so. Failing to follow this tip could mean your words being twisted against you, and the insurer denies your claim.
Never Sign a Settlement Agreement without a Personal Injury Lawyer’s Advice
At Jordan Law, we understand you are experiencing significant financial pressure because of your slip and fall accident injuries. The insurer knows that you’re going through a hard time, too. It’s not unusual for them to send a settlement offer shortly after you get hurt. But, should you accept it? Absolutely not! Most of these offers are severely undervaluing your claim. Speak with one of our attorneys before signing any settlement agreements. Remember, if you sign it, you can no longer sue for further damages.
Trust the Reputable Personal Injury Attorneys of Jordan Law
Don’t let the devastating injuries of a slip and fall accident on someone’s property ruin your life. Instead, get the compensation you need to recover your lost wages and medical expenses caused by another’s negligence.
Trust our years of experience representing Orlando slip and fall victims like yourself. We have a successful case record in personal injury law and are standing by to assist you. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation and learn more about what rights you have to compensation.