Whether running errands or enjoying your free time window-shopping, the last thing you’ll expect is to end up injured in your favorite store. However, these injuries do occur, and understanding the steps you’ll need to take after is essential to protecting yourself in a premises liability claim. If you’re injured in a retail store or other business property, ensuring you contact slip and fall attorneys can help you get the representation you deserve. Keep reading to learn more about the steps you’ll need to take after sustaining an injury.
What are the steps I should take if injured on a business property?
If you sustain injuries while in a business or on public property, the first thing you should do is seek emergency medical attention to receive the necessary treatment. Ensuring you establish a medical record is essential to fulfilling a premises liability claim, as a court may not award compensation for injuries if the plaintiff did not receive a diagnosis. However, if your injuries are less severe, you can wait to see your regular doctor, but you should try to get an appointment as soon as possible.
You’ll next want to report your injury to the entity responsible for the property. In a business, this would be the owner or manager on duty. You’ll need to complete an incident report, and you should request a copy of the report. It’s vital to take photos and videos of the scene of the accident, as this evidence can help you support a claim down the line. If the store has a security system, you should request a copy of the recording.
Aside from photos and videos, you should also collect the information of witnesses on the scene. This includes their contact information and a brief statement of their account of the accident. If your injuries prevent you from completing these steps, you should have a friend or family member help take photos and speaks to witnesses.
What kind of injuries can occur?
Though a slip and fall may not seem like a big deal, a number of injuries can occur as a result. For example, many who slip can experience broken bones, head injuries, lacerations, and spinal cord injuries. Similarly, if you are hit by falling items like merchandise, shelving, or outdoor fixtures on public property, you can experience similar injuries.
When injured due to another party’s negligence, ensuring you contact an attorney is the most crucial step. Without a lawyer to represent you, it is unlikely that you’ll receive the compensation you deserve for the injuries you sustained. When you need representation, Friedman Schuman is ready to help. Our experienced legal team can guide you through your personal injury claim to make the process less stressful, so you can focus on healing.
