When it comes to unanticipated scenarios that can cause accidental injuries and even death, dramatic incidents like motor-vehicle collisions and surgical errors probably come to mind. Although both situations certainly have the potential for devastating consequences, slip and fall accidents can be just as catastrophic.

In fact, falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury deaths at home, according to U.S. News & World Report. Vulnerable populations like the elderly have the greatest risk of sustaining serious injuries in a fall, but at the end of the day, anyone can hurt themselves upon slipping on a wet floor or tripping over a broken step.

If you tripped or slipped and fell on a commercial property that should have been better maintained, turn to the Missouri personal injury lawyers at Gump & Faiella. We take great pride in helping injured parties recover the compensation they need to feel whole again following a devastating accident. Call 800-264-3455 to schedule a free case evaluation with a slip and fall attorney.

Read on to learn six steps you should take after a slip and fall accident :

  Unless you sustained life-threatening injuries, do not leave the scene until you can find someone who has some kind of authority on the premises and knows how to draft an incident report. This might be the business owner, landlord, or manager on duty.  

After finding an authority figure and reporting what happened, ask for a copy of the accident report. Every reputable company should already have a procedure in place for drafting such reports, so be persistent, and ask to speak to someone else if the person whom you originally found is not helpful.  

Shooting the scene after the accident is the only way to ensure you will capture the area exactly as it was when your injury occurred, especially if the property does not have surveillance cameras. Unless you are experiencing a medical emergency, returning to take photos later is not a good idea because it will give the liable party time to alter the scene.  

Head to an urgent care center or your primary care provider within a day or two of the incident. This will ensure your medical records are up-to-date, which will help your lawyer prove that there is a link between your slip and fall and any subsequent injuries. It will also ensure that you receive adequate attention for your injuries, including those that may not be exhibiting symptoms yet.    

You might hear from the insurance agent within a few days of the accident. Avoid discussing the case in detail, and do not provide a recorded statement until you have spoken to a lawyer about the most strategic way to proceed.  

Once your health has stabilized, you can hand over the case to a knowledgeable lawyer. By hiring an attorney early in the proceedings, you can avoid making critical mistakes along the way that might otherwise jeopardize your chances of filing a successful claim, such missing important deadlines or posting sensitive information on social media.  

Discuss Your Case with a Slip and Fall Lawyer in Missouri Today!  

If you sustained serious injuries after falling on someone else’s property, contact the personal injury attorneys at Gump & Faiella. You may be entitled to compensation for healthcare expenses, lost income, emotional distress, and other damages. Call 800-264-3455 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with a Moberly slip and fall attorney.

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