What Not to Do and What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident: An Experienced Long Island Slip and Fall Lawyer Explains

Did you know that slip and fall accidents are among the most common types of personal injury cases in the United States? According to the National Floor Safety Institute, they account for more than eight million emergency department visits each year.

Maybe this has happened to you or someone you know. You take a break from work and make a quick stop at your favorite cafe. But as you step inside, an unnoticed spill sends you slipping, and you unexpectedly find yourself in a heap on the floor.  Your wrist throbs with pain from the fall, and suddenly, your normal day turns into a nightmare of pain and uncertainty.

What do you do now?

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, knowing your rights is essential. You may be entitled to financial compensation, so you need to take steps to protect them. Get the legal help you need and contact The Harrison Law Group at (631) 465-9797 to schedule your FREE case consultation and strategy session.

With over 30 years of experience, our Long Island slip and fall lawyer understands that consistent communication and listening are key, so we’re dedicated to providing you with the best experience, maximum value, and compensation.

But what can you do at the scene of the accident, or in its immediate aftermath, to protect your interests? Let’s delve into the don’ts and dos to follow next.

Don’t Ignore Injuries

After a slip and fall accident, seeking medical attention right away is critical. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s best to have a medical professional evaluate you.

Some injuries, such as a concussion, may not show symptoms immediately. Also, if you wait too long to seek medical attention, it may harm your case if you decide to take legal action.

Don’t Admit Fault

If you’re injured in a slip and fall accident, do not admit fault. Even if you think you were partially at fault, it’s best to say nothing until you’ve spoken to a lawyer.

For example, you’re walking through a grocery store and you slip and fall on a wet floor. You might be tempted to say “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault” to the store manager. However, this could be used against you later on if you decide to file a lawsuit.

Instead, stick to providing basic information, such as your name and contact information, when speaking to insurance companies, property owners or managers, and other parties.

Don’t Sign Anything

After a slip and fall accident, you may be approached by insurance companies or property owners asking you to sign documents or waivers. These documents could release the at-fault party from any responsibility for the accident.

Before signing any documents, consult an experienced Long Island Personal injury attorney, who can advise you on your legal rights.

Don’t Post on Social Media

Avoid posting any information or pictures about the incident on social media platforms. Insurance companies and other parties may use this information against you.

If you post images of yourself after the accident, this could be used to imply that you aren’t injured as severely as you claim.

Don’t Wait Too Long to File a Slip and Fall Claim

In New York, the statute of limitations for slip and fall accidents is three years. Waiting too long to file a claim can result in the case being barred by the statute of limitations.

If you or someone you know has suffered from a slip and fall accident, it’s crucial to act fast and hire an experienced Long Island slip and fall lawyer. A lawyer can help gather evidence and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

Don’t Attempt to Represent Yourself in Court

If you’re considering representing yourself in court, think twice. Slip and fall accidents can be complicated, and the legal system may be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the legal process and rules of evidence.

An experienced Long Island slip and fall lawyer can help you navigate the system and fight to protect your rights to financial compensation.

Do These Things Instead

So now that you know what not to do, here are some things you should do instead.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

The moments after a slip and fall accident can be overwhelming and chaotic. However, the steps you take following your accident can be crucial to your potential personal injury case.

As mentioned earlier, seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you think you haven’t sustained severe injuries. Some fall injuries, like internal bleeding or fractures, may not be immediately apparent.

Prompt medical attention ensures your well-being and creates a documented record of your injuries, which can be pivotal in a slip and fall lawsuit.

Document Everything

Next, if you’re physically able, document the scene where the fall accident occurred. This includes taking pictures or videos of the scene, focusing on the fall hazards such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting.

For example, if you slip and fall in a parking lot, you could take pictures of the wet floor, the signage (or lack thereof), and any other potential hazards. You could also ask a witness to take pictures or videos for you.

Having detailed and accurate documentation can go a long way in helping you build your case. Also, jot down the circumstances surrounding your accident and any relevant details.

Report the Accident

Whether your fall incident occurred on private property or commercial premises, it’s essential to report it to the property owner or manager. Request a copy of this report for your records, as it can serve as valuable evidence in your personal injury case.

Preserve Evidence

If you have torn clothing or damage to personal property, keep these items in a safe place. Your lawyer may want to use them as evidence in your case.

Keep track of any medical bills, lost wages, or other expenses related to your slip and fall accident. Your lawyer can help you determine the value of your claim and ensure you are compensated for your losses.

Consult with a Long Island Slip and Fall Attorney

Finally, consult with a skilled Long Island slip and fall attorney. This step is crucial because a knowledgeable lawyer will guide you on how to proceed with your claim to obtain maximum compensation for your injuries.

Your lawyer will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies so that you can focus on your recovery. Having a lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

We invite you to read our blog, “How Long Does a Slip and Fall Case Take in New York?” for more information on the legal process and how long it typically takes for a slip and fall case to be resolved.

Begin Your Recovery Journey: Reach Out to The Harrison Law Group Today

Dealing with the aftermath of a slip and fall accident in New York can be daunting and filled with uncertainties. Seeking legal assistance is crucial, and reaching out to a seasoned attorney without delay can be pivotal in safeguarding your rights.

At The Harrison Law Group, our New York slip and fall accident lawyers are skilled in handling the intricacies of slip and fall accidents, standing ready to advocate for the optimal resolution for our clients.

We fully recognize the significant challenges you’re confronted with, so we approach each case with the utmost care and attention it warrants. Our proven success in numerous slip and fall cases for clients in Long Island is a testament to our commitment.

Contact us at (631) 465-9797 or complete our convenient online contact form to schedule your FREE consultation and strategy session.

We are flexible with our appointments, offering evening and weekend options to accommodate your schedule. Whether in-person or virtual, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Remember to take our FREE personal injury claims quiz. This resource can help you assess the validity of your case and decide if pursuing legal assistance is the right move for you. Click here to begin.

Copyright © 2023. The Harrison Law Group, P.C. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

The Harrison Law Group, P.C.
534 Broad Hollow Road, Suite 100,
Melville, New York 11747
(631) 465-9797
https://hlgny.com/