A slip-and-fall accident occurs when an individual is injured due to slipping or tripping on a wet, uneven, or otherwise hazardous surface. Property owners have a legal obligation to maintain safe conditions for visitors, including putting up caution signs when necessary. Failure to do so can result in liability for any resulting accidents.
Navigating the challenging legal process of slip and fall cases can be overwhelming, especially without proper guidance. If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, a slip-and-fall accident lawyer or personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles can help.
Below, you can find a slip-and-fall accident checklist to help you seek justice and the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Checklist for a Slip and Fall Accident
Our slip and fall attorneys recommend taking the following steps if you have sustained injuries due to a slip and fall accident.
- Seek Medical Attention
- Your top priority should always be your health and safety. Call 911 if necessary and get a medical examination as soon as possible. Prompt medical attention not only ensures your injuries are treated but also creates essential medical records that can be used as evidence if you choose to file a slip-and-fall lawsuit down the line.
- Look for Witnesses
- If there were witnesses to the incident, ask them for their contact information and, if possible, a written statement about what they saw. Witness accounts can be valuable in supporting your claim and proving liability in a personal injury case.
- Report the Incident
- Inform the property owner, manager, or landlord of your fall and injuries immediately after the accident. Provide important details of the scene when reporting the incident, including the time, location, and any visible hazards. Request that a written report of the incident be created by the property owner or manager, and keep a copy for your records.
- Avoid Admitting Fault
- Refrain from admitting fault or discussing the incident extensively with the property owner or on social media. Statements made in the heat of the moment or shared publicly can undermine your case and be used against you in court.
- Document Everything
- Gathering evidence at the scene will provide you with the most accurate information as possible. Aside from reporting the incident and getting eyewitness statements, take photos and videos of the scene. This includes pictures of the surrounding area, any potential hazards, your injuries, and other relevant details that can be used as proof later on.
- File Your Lawsuit Immediately
- To ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve, it is crucial to file your slip-and-fall case within the statute of limitations. An experienced slip-and-fall accident attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you determine the timeframe for submitting a personal injury claim in California.
Contact a Slip and Fall Lawyer (Los Angeles)
Contact one of the top Los Angeles personal injury law firms for guidance on how to navigate a slip and fall lawsuit. John J. Perlstein, one of the best personal injury attorneys in Los Angeles, CA, has over 25 years of experience securing fair and just outcomes in personal injury and wrongful death cases.
Reach us at (213) 583-5786 or fill out the form on our website to schedule a free consultation with a Los Angeles personal injury attorney. This consultation will allow us to determine how we can secure the best possible outcome for your case.