Slick floors, narrow aisles, large volumes of stock, and constant foot traffic make warehouse retail stores high-risk environments for slip and fall accidents. The impact of these accidents may include medical expenses, time away from work, and long-term consequences that hinder your ability to work. Contact a slip and fall lawyer to protect your legal rights and get compensation for the damage you incur. Here are three steps to take after a slip and fall accident in a warehouse retail store:
1. Seek Medical Attention
Slip and fall accidents cause injuries, including cuts and bruises, sprained wrists, hip fractures, spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries. Some injuries, like sprains, do not exhibit symptoms immediately. Instead, they worsen over time, putting you at risk of permanent disability or death if you do not seek care.
Once a doctor examines your health, they provide a comprehensive medical report. The report details the extent of your injuries, medical expenses, and time needed for recovery. Records help you prove your case when filing a claim and show that you had no injuries before the accident. Delaying medical examinations gives the defense a chance to argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim. They may also attempt to claim that you had the injuries before the accident.
2. Inform the Store Manager
After confirming your health is not in danger, inform the store manager about the incident. Managers usually create a report that highlights the details of the circumstances that led to the fall. Details include risk factors like slippery floors or pathway obstructions that contributed to the accident, as well as injuries sustained. If you cannot reach the store manager, or they refuse to record the report, write a statement and send it to your insurer.
A store manager may attempt to offer compensation on the spot. Agreeing to it will jeopardize your case later if you decide to file a claim. Consult your slip and fall lawyer for guidance before agreeing to anything. Your attorney has likely dealt with similar situations and can assess your situation. They may offer advice on whether to resolve the issue with the store manager or involve your insurer.
3. Collect Evidence at the Scene
The quality and quantity of evidence can affect the success of your claim. Gathering all forms of proof helps strengthen your case and sway the outcome in your favor. Take clear photographs and videos of the scene, capturing hazards like poor lighting, spilled liquid, and uneven floors. This evidence shows that the property manager was aware of the potential danger but was negligent.
Collect the names, addresses, and phone numbers of any witnesses and request that they provide an unbiased account of the incident. The store owner may attempt to downplay the seriousness of your injuries or claim that you were liable for the fall. Witnesses provide a third-party perspective to confirm what you say in your claim, which offers credibility to your case.
Contact Your Slip and Fall Lawyer
Slip and fall accident cases involve complex legal requirements. Being well-versed with state laws helps you prove owner or manager negligence and achieve the legal outcome you desire. An experienced slip and fall lawyer assesses the incident, guides you in collecting evidence, and represents you in court hearings as you recover from the injuries. Attorneys can also negotiate with your health insurer or the business’ liability insurer for the most favorable compensation. You do not need to handle a slip and fall accident alone. Contact an experienced lawyer today, and let professionals support you through the traumatizing event and get you a favorable outcome.
