What to Do If You Fall in a Department Store?
Falling in a department store is embarrassing. But when you get injured in a slip and fall accident, the physical, emotional, and financial pain you end up with can be life changing. Aside from being embarrassed by the incident, you may also be left with negative changes in your ability to work and perform your daily tasks. Even if you recover fully from your injuries, recovery may take a long time.
If you get hurt in a slip and fall accident in a department store, the owners of the store must be held responsible for all the losses you incurred. Here’s how.
Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident in a Department Store
Get Medical Treatment Immediately
Call 911 to get emergency medical attention or get someone else to call for your help so you can have your injuries checked right away. In some cases, an injury may feel minor right after the accident. It’s not until several hours, days, or weeks later after the slip and fall accident that symptoms suddenly show up or worsen over time without the injured person realizing it.
Report The Slip and Fall Accident
Inform the owner, manager, or another person relevant to the situation. But stick to the facts and avoid giving unfounded claims or opinions that they may try to use against you when you file your claim. Avoid statements like “I should’ve been more careful,” “I was rushing,” or “my shoes were slippery.” Make sure to obtain a copy of the report, so you have evidence that you reported the accident.
Document The Slip and Fall Accident
Get the names and contact details of everyone that witnessed the accident. If you can, take pictures and videos of where the fall occurred, including potential hazards or slippery spots. Take photos of your injuries and any damage to your clothes. Obtain all paperwork relevant to the accident, including your medical records and receipts for treatment, and anything you received from the department store owner, their lawyer, insurer, etc.
Discuss Your Case With a Clearwater Slip and Fall Lawyer
You need to understand that not all slip and fall accidents become valid claims. As the injured party, you must be able to prove the slip and fall occurred specifically how, where, and when you said it did. You must likewise prove that the department store owner is liable for your injuries and related damages. Likewise, you must prove that the owner’s inaction led to the accident and got you injured.
Your Clearwater slip and fall lawyer will determine if you have a valid claim against the department store owner, handle all the aspects of the claims process, prove liability for your damages, and secure fair compensation on your behalf, whether through a settlement or jury award.
Seek Legal Guidance From a Seasoned Clearwater Slip and Fall Lawyer Now
To learn more about your slip and fall case and the best legal options available to you, contact the Clearwater slip and fall lawyer at Tragos, Sartes & Tragos online or at 727-441-9030 to arrange your free consultation.