A fall can be very embarrassing, painful, and traumatic. If you are a victim of a slip and fall in Rhode Island, there are five things that could jeopardize any case and related compensation. Be sure to follow these cautionary tips in the event you experience a slip and fall.
1. Failing to report it.
Don’t avoid reporting your slip and fall accident to the manager on duty. Your first instinct may be to remove yourself from the area due to discomfort or humiliation. However, you must make sure the slip and fall is reported and documented in an official incident report. Be sure to obtain a copy of that report for your personal injury claim.
2. Not reaching out.
Don’t forget to speak with anyone who saw you fall. If there were witnesses to the accident, try and obtain their contact information in case they need to make a statement to help your personal injury attorney prove your claim.
3. Not taking pictures.
Don’t fail to take pictures of the scene. If you have a cell phone on you, take pictures of whatever caused you to fall. The best evidence of the accident scene is any photographs taken immediately after your accident.
4. Ignoring your pain.
Don’t ignore your pain. Even more than any embarrassment you may feel, you may be seriously hurt. If you are seriously injured, call for emergency help. If you have any pain at all, go to the hospital for medical examination. At the very least, see your primary care doctor to ensure you do not have any hidden or lasting injuries.
5. Failing to consult a lawyer.
Don’t sign any waivers or accept a settlement offer without speaking with a slip and fall lawyer. Insurance companies will do all they can to make sure you collect as little as possible (if anything) on your claim.
In order to be fully compensated after a slip and fall accident, contact Attorney Mike Bottaro and our team at the Bottaro Law Firm, LLC. We understand how the settlement process works, how to fight insurance companies, and how to properly value your slip and fall accident claim.
Injured in a slip and fall? Read our Slip and Fall FAQs and Find Out if You Have a Case.
To find out more about how insurance companies work read our Resources for Personal Injury Victims: Insurance’s 5 Best Kept Secrets.