Slip and Fall Accident? Now What?
- December 9, 2019
During the winter season, snow and ice are a major cause of personal injuries in New York. Slip and fall accidents are incredibly common and occur most often at businesses, on sidewalks, parking lots and at friend’s houses. Initially, there is that moment of silence where everyone holds their breath waiting to see what will happen next… hoping the person is okay. Then, unfortunately, an ambulance may have to be called or someone goes to the Emergency Room. There are more than one million slip and fall accidents in the US each year, injuries typically cost between $30,000-$50,000 per person. The most common damages include traumatic brain, spinal cord and neck injuries and broken (or fractured) hips and limbs.
What happens next?
When someone slips and falls in public, they may feel embarrassed and get up too quickly without thinking about what they should be doing if they are injured more seriously than they realize. What should you do if you have fallen victim to a slip and fall?
- Call, or have someone call 911 for you
- Seek medical attention within 48 hours
- Take photos or have someone take photos for you. Capture anything that may help your case, broken sidewalks, icy streets, a spill that wasn’t picked up or didn’t have a sign. Do it before conditions change!
- Report the accident and contact the business owner or property manager
- Make sure that the business owner or property manager makes a report
- Keep all documents and files together including medical bills, claims, reports, notes, if you missed work and when, etc.
- If there are witnesses, try and collect contact information
- If you are contacted by an insurance adjuster, refer them to your lawyer
What should you do?
Not every slip and fall leads to a settlement. There are many factors to consider and details to comb through. Having an experienced New York law firm review your situation and discuss your options is a good place to start. If you have been affected by slip and fall, contact our personal injury team today here or call 845-298-2000.