The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that falls are a leading cause of injuries and death in the United States, and this includes slips and trips that lead to falls on level ground. Slip and falls happen in many environments, including in stores, office buildings, hotels, and other businesses. Some people may be able to get back up, brush themselves off, and move on with their day. On the other hand, some slip and fall victims suffer serious injuries.
If you suffered a slip and fall injury and incurred medical expenses and other losses, you may have the right to compensation. If you believe that a company or property owner’s negligence caused your fall, there are certain steps you can take to protect your rights.
Get the Medical Help You Need
Slip and falls can cause many types of injuries, including concussions, broken bones, soft tissue injuries, dislocations, and even spinal cord injuries. If you need emergency medical assistance, you should not hesitate to call 911 or head directly to the emergency room. Getting a prompt diagnosis can make sure you start receiving the necessary treatment right away. It can also help to prove the nature of the injuries you sustained from the fall.
Report the Fall
If you are able to remain at the scene of the fall, you should always report the slip and fall to a manager or supervisor. This creates a record of what happened, since the store should clean up any debris or address any hazards that caused you to slip and fall. You can also give your side of the story while your memory is still fresh. If the police report to the scene, tell them what happened as well, so they can issue a report.
Take Photos
If you can, use your phone – or have someone else use theirs – to take photos of the cause of your slip and fall. If the floor is wet or something spilled, document it as clearly as possible. These photos can help prove that the store or business was negligent and should be liable for your losses.
Contact an Attorney
If you have medical bills, lost income from missed work, or any other losses, you should schedule a free consultation with a slip and fall attorney in Fargo right away. An attorney can determine whether a party should be liable for your injuries, and the can take the next steps toward compensation for you.
Contact Our Fargo Personal Injury Lawyers as Soon as Possible for a Free Case Evaluation
At O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Attorneys, we help victims of slip and falls recover for their medical bills and many other losses. To learn about your rights, contact one of our experienced personal injury attorneys, Tatum O’Brien, Tim O’Keeffe, or Sara Monson by email, or call O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Attorneys at 701-235-8000 or toll-free 877-235-8002.