A slip and fall accident can happen anywhere — a grocery store, a restaurant, a neighbor’s property, or a public sidewalk. If you have been injured in a slip and fall in New Jersey, knowing what steps to take immediately after the accident can make a significant difference in your ability to recover full compensation. Here is what you should do.
Step 1 — Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health is the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor as soon as possible after a slip and fall accident. Some injuries like soft tissue damage, concussions, and back injuries may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical treatment also creates an official record of your injuries which is critical for your legal case.
Step 2 — Report the Accident
Report the accident to the property owner, manager, or supervisor immediately. Ask them to create a written incident report and request a copy for your records. If they refuse to provide one make note of who you spoke with and when.
Step 3 — Document the Scene
If you are physically able to do so document the scene of the accident as thoroughly as possible. Use your phone to photograph the hazardous condition that caused your fall such as a wet floor, broken step, or uneven pavement. Also photograph your injuries, any warning signs or lack thereof, and the surrounding area.
Step 4 — Gather Witness Information
If anyone witnessed your fall get their name and contact information right away. Witnesses can provide valuable testimony about the dangerous condition and how your accident occurred.
Step 5 — Preserve Your Evidence
Keep the shoes and clothing you were wearing at the time of the accident. Do not wash them as they may serve as evidence. Also keep all medical records, bills, and any other documentation related to your injury.
Step 6 — Do Not Give a Recorded Statement
The property owner’s insurance company may contact you shortly after the accident and ask for a recorded statement. Do not provide one without first speaking to an attorney. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions designed to minimize your claim or shift blame onto you.
Step 7 — Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
New Jersey premises liability law can be complex. Property owners and their insurance companies will fight hard to avoid paying compensation. An experienced slip and fall attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, establish liability, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
How Blaise Injury Law Can Help
At Blaise Injury Law we represent slip and fall victims across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. Attorney Blaise Richards knows exactly how property owners and their insurers try to avoid liability and uses that knowledge to build the strongest possible case for our clients.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident contact Blaise Injury Law today for a free case evaluation. You pay nothing unless we win.
Call (856) 340-5685 or visit our contact page to get started today.