What to do (and not to do) after a slip-and-fall accident

On Behalf of | Mar 6, 2024 | Firm News

Experiencing a slip-and-fall accident can be overwhelming, especially while dealing with injuries. While you’re recovering, it’s crucial to understand the potential legal implications of your accident. In Georgia, premises liability laws play a significant role.

These laws hold the property owners you encounter accountable for maintaining a safe environment. If you’ve recently experienced a slip-and-fall accident, here’s what you need to know about the steps to take and what to avoid doing.

Necessary steps to build a strong case

First and foremost, it’s important to get medical help right away after a fall. This is not only essential for your health, but it also helps document your injuries. Next, document everything you can about the accident. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries and any conditions that may have contributed to the accident. If there were witnesses, you should get their contact information and statements as soon as possible.

In addition, make sure to report the incident to the property owner or manager and secure a copy of the report. Keeping all types of official records can help in validating your claim. Remember, you should also keep track of your medical expenses, which can be crucial in receiving compensation for your case, such as treatment costs and out-of-pocket expenses.

Avoiding missteps

It’s essential to be mindful of your actions and words after the accident. If there’s a chance encounter with the property owner, you should avoid discussing the incident with the owner or their insurance company, as this can possibly harm your case. 

Also, it can be beneficial if you avoid posting about the incident or injuries on social media until the resolution of your case. Keep in mind that anything you say can be under scrutiny. So, anything you post can be misconstrued and you potentially risk providing information that could be used to dispute your claim.

Needing assistance after a fall

In a slip-and-fall accident, there are certain tasks you need to keep up with, as well as certain actions you should avoid. Balancing these can be challenging while undergoing medical attention for any injuries you sustained after the fall. So, consider seeking a lawyer. They can guide you through state laws and help you fully understand your rights as a visitor on the property.