A fall happens in a second, and it is easy to be embarrassed and want to move on. But the hours right after matter, both for your health and for any claim you may have. Here is what helps.
In the moment
- Get medical attention. Even if you feel okay, some injuries do not show up until later.
- Report it. Tell the store, building, or property manager, and ask that an incident report be made.
- Photograph the scene. Take pictures of what caused the fall, whether a wet floor, a broken step, or poor lighting, before it is cleaned up or repaired.
- Get witness names. Anyone who saw it can help later.
- Keep what you were wearing, especially your shoes, just as they are.
Be careful with insurers
Soon after a fall, you may hear from an insurance company. It is best not to give a recorded statement or sign anything until you have spoken with an attorney. Early words can be used in ways you did not intend.
What the law asks
Property owners are generally expected to keep their premises reasonably safe and to warn about hazards they know about. Whether that duty was met in your case depends on the specific facts, which is exactly why the photos and the report matter so much.
What it costs to ask
Injury cases are handled on contingency, which means the fee comes out of any recovery and there is no fee if there is no recovery. Finding out where you stand costs you nothing.
This article is general information about the law, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is different. For guidance on your own case, speak with an attorney.
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