What should I do if I fall and get injured at a store? | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

If you fall and get injured at a store, it is essential to take the appropriate steps to ensure your well-being and protect your legal rights. The following are the steps you should take in these incidents.

  1. Assess your condition.

After a fall, the first priority is to assess your injuries and overall well-being. Check yourself for any visible wounds or broken bones. If you suspect a serious injury, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from store staff or other customers.

  1. Notify store staff.

Inform the store staff or management about the incident and your injuries. They should be made aware of the situation as soon as possible. Ask them to document the incident in their accident report log. Make sure to obtain a copy of this report for your records.

  1. Gather evidence.

If you can do so safely, try to collect evidence at the scene. Take photographs of the area where you fell, including any hazards that contributed to your accident, such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, or obstacles. These pictures can serve as valuable evidence if you decide to pursue a legal claim later.

  1. Obtain witness statements.

If there were any witnesses present during your fall, request their contact information. Their statements may be crucial in supporting your case, so it’s essential to get their names and phone numbers or email addresses.

  1. Preserve any physical evidence.

If any objects or conditions caused your fall, such as spilled liquids or loose carpets, try to preserve them as evidence. Inform the store staff of these items and ask them to keep them intact for investigation purposes.

  1. Seek medical attention.

Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s still advisable to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and could worsen over time. A medical professional will evaluate your condition, provide necessary treatment, and document your injuries, which can be helpful if you decide to pursue a legal claim.

  1. Document your injuries.

Keep a record of all medical treatments received, including doctors’ appointments, diagnostic tests, medications, and therapies. These documents will be useful when calculating your medical expenses and potential compensation for your injuries.

  1. Consult a personal injury attorney.

If your injuries are significant or you believe the store’s negligence caused your fall, consider consulting a personal injury attorney. They can guide you through the legal process, assess the strength of your case, and help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any other losses you may have incurred.

  1. Be cautious with insurance companies

If the store’s insurance company contacts you, be cautious about providing detailed statements or accepting early settlement offers. It’s best to consult your attorney before engaging in any discussions with insurance representatives to ensure your rights are protected.

  1. Keep a record of all interactions

Maintain a detailed record of all conversations, correspondence, and documents related to your case. This includes emails, letters, medical bills, and receipts. These records will assist your attorney in building a strong case on your behalf.

Remember, every personal injury case is unique. Seeking professional legal advice is crucial to understanding your rights and taking the appropriate steps for your specific situation. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, contact a Virginia premises liablity attorney for help.