When you fall in public – whether in a store, a parking lot or while walking down the sidewalk – you may initially feel embarrassed. Others may rush to your side to help, and it can be easy to brush them aside and flee the scene to save yourself from further embarrassment.
This embarrassment is temporary, however. Regardless of how you feel in the moment, it is important that you take steps to protect your legal rights after an accident.
Steps you should take
If you were injured in a fall on another person’s property:
- Get medical treatment. Your health is important, and you should seek medical treatment as soon as possible in order to get the care you need.
- Take pictures of the area. If you have a camera or cell phone with you, take pictures of the scene. This evidence can be helpful, particularly in cases where the cause of your injuries could be quickly fixed or change with the weather. For example, if you slipped on spilled liquid in a store, a picture can help show the spill before it is cleaned up.
- Note your location. Take a photo of the building or take a note of where you are located. You will want to know the location of your fall in case you want to bring a claim against the property owner.
- Get contact information of witnesses. If an employee came to help you or another individual witnessed your accident, get their name and phone number. Witnesses can help with any insurance or personal injury claim you have.
- Contact an attorney as soon as possible. If you were seriously injured in a slip-and-fall accident on another person’s property, you might have a premises liability claim. In New York, there is a limited time period to bring this type of claim, particularly if your claim is against the city. An attorney can help you understand your options and help you protect your rights throughout the process.
The attorneys at Paris & Chaikin, PLLC, help clients injured in slip-and-falls throughout the five boroughs.
