You should always contact a lawyer if  involved in a slip and fall accident and you have suffered serious injuries. Even though every case may be different, it is always wise to contact a lawyer immediately, as evidence may be lost.

About Slips, Trips, and Falls

If a person is injured by falling or slipping due to a dangerous condition in the area,  this would be considered as a “slip and fall” or “trip and fall” accident. Falling outside or inside a building, which were caused by conditions such as debris on the floor, poor lighting, ice, snow, potholes, uneven floors, or even hidden hazards can all be reasons for a lawsuit. Falling on ice and snow are common accidents that occur in Salt Lake City.

Who is at Fault?

Just because you slipped and fell on someone’s property does not automatically make the owner at fault. Property owners have a responsibility to keep and make sure that their properties are in a safe enough conditions for others, but it does not mean they are always responsible for their safety.

In most successful slip and fall cases there must have been a defective or a dangerous condition on that property which caused the fall, either short-term or long-term. In some instances, you must also be able to prove that the owner of the property knew there was a defect or should have known about defect. Please contact us regarding the specifics of your case so we can advise you on your case.

Report the Fall

Report the accident and the dangerous conditions to the property owner, store manager, or whoever is in charge. Do not give an extensive report or statement to anyone until you have spoken to your lawyer.

Take Pictures and Notes of What Happened

Pictures are extremely useful in slip and fall cases. Since most cell phones have cameras nowadays, taking a picture of the condition that made you fall is much easier than it used to be. These pictures can often make or break a slip and fall case. Make sure you take notes about how the accident happened. Make sure you note the date and time the accident occurred, location of the accident, and name of the person who reported the accident if there was one. Also note the name of the property owner, their insurance information, weather conditions, what kind of clothes and shoes you were wearing. Be sure to keep all your clothes, shoes, and other physical evidence.

Seek Medical Attention

If you feel any physical pain, you should seek out medical attention immediately. If there is a delay in seeking medial attention it could have a negative affect for your case. The emergency room can provide you with immediate diagnostic tests and evaluation. If your case isn’t as severe, you can see your family doctor or an urgent care center. Be sure to tell them all of the physical complaints that you are having. Don’t leave any complaints unmentioned no matter how minor you believe them to be. Remember to take pictures of any visible injuries, such as scrapes, bruises, broken bones or any other physical injury.

Contact an Attorney

Do not delay on contacting a lawyer if you are involved in a slip and fall accident. A successful case must be investigated right away and evidence must be preserved.

Speak to a lawyer to better understand the time limitations that you have in order to take any sort of legal action. If required action is not taken in the allotted time, your case will be lost forever. Contact  us today in the Salt Lake City area and protect your rights.