From getting medical care to gathering evidence and hiring a lawyer, every step matters.
Slip and fall accidents usually happen when you least expect them. Whether it’s on a wet floor, icy sidewalk, or uneven ground, these accidents can cause serious injuries and confusion about what to do next. Knowing the right steps to take after a fall can help you protect your rights. If you’re thinking about holding someone responsible for your injuries, an experienced injury attorney in Detroit can guide you through the process and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Get Medical Help Right Away
Your health should always come first after a slip and fall accident. Check yourself for injuries, even if you don’t feel hurt right away. Some injuries, like bruises or sprains, might show up later. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible is vital, as it ensures that any injuries are treated, and it also creates a medical record of your condition, which can be important if you decide to file a claim.
If your injuries are severe, call 911 or have someone take you to the hospital. Even if your injuries seem minor, don’t skip getting checked by a doctor. Your well-being is the top priority, and medical reports will be useful if you decide to pursue a legal case.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re able, collect as much information as you can about the accident. Evidence is key to showing what caused your fall and who might be responsible.
Start by taking pictures or videos of the area where you fell. Look for things like wet spots, icy patches, uneven surfaces, or missing warning signs. These details can help prove that unsafe conditions caused your accident. Also, take photos of your injuries and any damage to your clothing or belongings.
If anyone was nearby and saw what happened, ask for their names and contact information. Witnesses can confirm your version of events and strengthen your case. Write down the date, approximate time, and location of the accident so you have a clear record of everything.
Report the Accident to the Property Owner
Let the owner or manager of the property know about the accident as soon as you can. If it happened at a business, tell an employee or manager and ask for an incident report. This creates a formal record of what happened.
When reporting the accident, stick to the facts. Describe how and where you fell, but don’t say anything that could suggest you were at fault. Ask for a copy of the report if they create one. Avoid signing any documents they might give you without talking to a lawyer first, as these could affect your ability to make a claim later.
Talk to a Detroit Personal Injury Attorney
Slip and fall cases can be complex and complicated, especially if the property owner denies responsibility. Speaking with an experienced Detroit personal injury attorney can make a big difference. They will explain your legal options, gather evidence, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
An attorney can handle communication with insurance companies and property owners, so you don’t have to. They will calculate your damages, which may include medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering, and help you build a solid case.
Simple Steps to Help Your Case
Taking the right steps after your accident can improve your chances of getting fair compensation. Here are some tips to follow:
- Keep Records: Save all medical bills, injury-related receipts, and any other documents related to your accident.
- Be Careful Talking to Insurance Companies: Don’t accept a quick settlement or give a recorded statement without advice from your lawyer.
- Follow Doctor’s Orders: Not following medical advice can hurt your claim because it may look like your injuries aren’t serious.
- Stay Off Social Media: Avoid posting about your accident or injuries online. Insurance companies can use this against you.
- File Your Claim on Time: Michigan has deadlines for personal injury claims, and an attorney can help ensure you don’t miss them. Michigan’s slip and fall statute of limitations is three years.
These actions will make it easier for your lawyer to prove your case and get you the compensation you deserve.
Michigan’s Comparative Fault Rule
In Michigan, you can still get compensation even if you are partly to blame for your accident. However, your payout will be lowered by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be lowered by 20%. If you are more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover damages.
This is why gathering strong evidence is so important. It helps show that the property owner’s negligence, not your actions, caused the accident.
Call a Detroit Personal Injury Attorney for Help Today
If you’ve been hurt in a slip and fall incident in Detroit, acting quickly can secure your rights and make it easier to get fair compensation. From getting medical care to gathering evidence and hiring a lawyer, every step matters. Don’t face this alone. Contact a trusted Detroit personal injury attorney today to discuss your case and start working toward a fair resolution.
