Founder
Did you slip and fall on someone else’s property? If so, that person could owe you money for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. Property owners and occupiers have a legal responsibility to keep their premises safe and free from hazards, and when their failure to meet this responsibility injures lawful visitors, they can be held accountable for the consequences.
Taking the proper steps after a slip and fall accident can help maximize the compensation you receive in your claim. Here’s what you can do to protect your health and your rights.
Document the Incident
After a slip and fall accident, you should document as much information as possible about the incident. Take pictures or videos of the area where the accident occurred, capturing any hazardous conditions that may have contributed to the fall, such as spills, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting. Make sure to document the exact location, time, and date of the incident.
If there were any witnesses, collect their names and contact information. Their statements can provide valuable corroborating evidence for your claim. Additionally, report the accident to the property owner or manager, and request a copy of the incident report.
Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
Your health and well-being should be the top priority after a slip and fall accident. Seek medical attention promptly, even if you do not initially believe you have suffered severe harm. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or head trauma, may not manifest symptoms immediately.
Follow your doctor’s treatment plan diligently, including attending follow-up appointments, taking prescribed medications, and participating in recommended physical therapy or rehabilitation sessions. Failing to follow your doctor’s orders can potentially undermine your claim, as the insurance company may argue that you contributed to the worsening of your injuries or that the appointments you attended were unnecessary.
Gather Evidence of Medical Expenses and Lost Income
To effectively pursue fair compensation for your losses, be sure to gather and maintain comprehensive documentation of all medical expenses and lost income resulting from the slip and fall accident. Keep detailed records of medical bills, receipts for prescriptions, and invoices for any medical equipment or home modifications required due to your injuries.
If you missed work due to your injuries, obtain documentation from your employer detailing the time off and any lost wages or benefits. Relevant evidence may include pay slips, tax forms, and correspondence with your human resources department.
Additionally, keep records of any out-of-pocket expenses related to your recovery, such as transportation costs for medical appointments or hiring assistance for household tasks you can no longer perform.
Avoid Giving Statements About the Accident
Be cautious about providing any statements regarding the slip and fall accident to the property owner’s insurance company or any other parties involved. Insurance adjusters may attempt to obtain information from you that could be used to minimize or deny your claim.
Instead, politely decline to give a statement and refer the insurance company to your attorney. Any communication or negotiation with the insurance company should be handled by your legal representative, who will protect your rights and represent your interests.
Contact an Experienced Michigan Slip and Fall Attorney
Working with a skilled attorney is one of the best ways for a slip-and-fall injury victim to pursue the maximum compensation available in their case. A lawyer can investigate the accident, identify all liable parties, calculate the total value of your losses, and negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement package. If the insurer is unwilling to give you the compensation you deserve, a seasoned litigator can fight for your rights in court.
The experienced Michigan personal injury team at Davis Law Center has fought on behalf of injured people for over 30 years. Let us put our knowledge and skills to work for you. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help.