Unexpectedly slipping and falling can be destabilizing. You might not understand what just happened, why, or who is responsible. However, documenting as much information as possible at the scene can later help support your San Antonio slip and fall claim. If possible, take these steps:
Seek Medical Treatment
If you were seriously injured, you may need to go to the hospital by ambulance. You can complete some of the remaining steps while you wait for emergency assistance, or you can ask a trusted person to do it for you. The most important thing after suffering an accident is your health.
Your medical team can properly diagnose and treat you. Also, your medical records should indicate how you were injured. Be sure to provide clear details to your medical providers about the slip and fall, how and where it happened, and which body parts were impacted. Discuss your symptoms, neither exaggerating nor minimizing them. Follow your doctor’s recommended medical treatment and therapy. Keep all of your medical records, bills, results, tests, and other details regarding your medical treatment, as you will need them for your injury claim in San Antonio.
Report the Accident
Report the slip and fall to the property owner, manager, or other person in control of the property. Explain what happened. Ask for a copy of any written report you prepare. If you submit your written report a few days after the incident, keep a copy and mail the report certified mail, return receipt requested, to prove you sent it and the owner received it.
Request the Owner’s Information
Ask the property owner for their name, contact information, role, and insurance information. Write down these details and keep them in a safe place.
Identify the Dangerous Condition That Injured You
If possible, try to identify what caused you to slip and fall. Was it a wet floor? Was there a crack in the pavement? Was there debris? It is easiest to do this before the area is cleaned up.
Write Notes to Yourself
While your memory is fresh, write a detailed account of everything you remember about the accident, including the exact date, time, location, and what you were doing. If your fall occurred in a store, write down the department and aisle number. Show these notes only to your San Antonio premises liability lawyer.
Identify Security Cameras
Check your surroundings for any surveillance cameras. It’s possible that the incident was recorded, which may help support your version of events and right to compensation. Let your premises liability lawyer know if you saw any cameras and where they were located so your lawyer can send a letter to the business requesting that it preserve this crucial evidence.
Ask Witnesses for Their Contact Details
If any witnesses observed the accident, write down their names, phone numbers, and email addresses.
Take Pictures or Video
Use your cell phone camera to capture details of the accident. Take close-ups of the hazardous condition or defect that injured you. Take wide shots of the accident scene and missing warning signs. You can also take pictures that demonstrate factors that could have contributed to the accident, such as poor lighting or a lack of rails.
Contact a Lawyer
Finally, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you with your claim. George Salinas Injury Lawyers offers free consultations and can help you with next steps.