Slip and fall accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere, and at any time. They can occur in public places, private properties, and workplaces. While some slip-and-fall accidents may result in minor injuries, others can be quite severe, leading to long-term disabilities and medical bills.
If you are a Pennsylvania resident and have been involved in a slip and fall accident, here are some steps you should take:
Seek medical attention
Your health and safety should always come first. Even if you don’t feel hurt, it’s essential to get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible after a slip and fall accident. Some injuries may not show up immediately and could worsen if left untreated. Seeing a doctor will also help you to document your injuries, which could be beneficial later when you’re making a claim.
Report the incident
If you were in a public place or on someone else’s property, report the incident to the manager, owner, or landlord. Make sure to get a copy of the incident report, which should include details about the accident, such as the time and location, and the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Take photos and video
If possible, take photos and video of the accident scene, including any hazards that caused your fall. This evidence can be crucial in supporting your claim later.
Collect information
Gather the names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident or helped you after the fall. If there were any warning signs or barriers in place, take note of them. Also, make a note of any weather conditions that may have contributed to the fall.
Contact a slip and fall attorney
If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be eligible for compensation. An experienced slip-and-fall attorney can help you to determine your legal options and guide you through the claims process. They can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that you get the compensation you deserve.
File a claim
If you decide to pursue legal action, you’ll need to file a claim against the person or entity responsible for your injury. Your attorney will help you to gather all the necessary evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and photos of the accident scene.
Negotiate a settlement
Most slip-and-fall cases are settled out of court. Your attorney will negotiate with the responsible party’s insurance company to reach a fair settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to trial.
It’s important to note that Pennsylvania has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, which means that you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, it’s always best to take action as soon as possible after the accident to ensure that evidence is preserved and witnesses’ memories are fresh.
It’s important to be cautious of insurance companies who may try to offer a low settlement or deny your claim altogether. Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s interests, and they may not have your best interests in mind. Having an experienced slip-and-fall attorney on your side can help you navigate the claims process and ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
As a law firm that specializes in personal injury cases, including slip and fall accidents in Pennsylvania, we at Gibson & Perkins, PC can help you in several ways.
First, we will investigate the accident to gather evidence, including photos, videos, and witness statements. We will also obtain medical records and bills to determine the extent of your injuries and the costs associated with them.
Second, we will assess who is liable for your slip and fall accident. Liability may rest with the property owner, tenant, or management company, depending on the circumstances surrounding your fall. We will examine the evidence to determine who was responsible for the dangerous condition that caused your accident.
Third, we will file a claim on your behalf. This will include a demand for compensation to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Fourth, we will negotiate with the responsible party’s insurance company to reach a fair settlement. We will use our knowledge and experience to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Fifth, if a settlement cannot be reached, we will litigate your case in court. We will use our trial experience and knowledge to present a strong case on your behalf.
We understand how traumatic slip and fall accidents can be, and we will provide support and guidance throughout the claims process, ensuring that you have a strong legal advocate on your side.
We at Gibson & Perkins, PC can help you navigate the complex legal process after a slip and fall accident in Pennsylvania. With our experience and knowledge, you can be assured that you have the best possible representation for your case.