When you enter another party’s property, you reasonably expect it to be safe. Unfortunately, when the appropriate parties fail to uphold their legal obligation to maintain a safe environment, you can suffer severe injuries on someone else’s property. If this is the case, you may not know how to proceed. However, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the necessary steps to protect them. Please continue reading to learn what mistakes to avoid following your slip and fall accident to maximize your chances of a successful claim and how a dedicated Birmingham Slip and Fall Lawyer can assist you in recovering the compensation you deserve.
What Common Mistakes Should I Avoid After a Slip and Fall Accident?
After the initial shock of the accident has faded, it’s essential to understand the steps you must take to protect your legal rights. Many injured parties make avoidable mistakes that jeopardize their ability to recover compensation for the damages they have endured, as they don’t realize their actions can significantly impact their claim. This is especially importnat in Alabama as the state follows the contributory negligence doctrine, which bars victims from recovering compensation if they are even slightly responsible for the cause of their accident. This means that even if the other party is deemed 99% at fault for the accident, you will face the absolute bar of recovery for your 1% contribution to the cause of the accident. Therefore, it’s essential to establish the other party’s complete fault to protect your right to compensation.
You should avoid admitting fault in the immediate aftermath of the slip and fall accident. Even if you feel partially responsible, saying something as minor as “I’m so clumsy” can harm your case, as the insurance company can use this against you to deny or minimize your claim. In addition, you should remain at the scene to document everything, including the dangerous conditions that caused your accident. You should gather contact information from witnesses who may be able to corroborate your claim. Don’t rush to leave the scene.
Furthermore, refraining from denying or delaying medical care would be best. It’s importnat to avoid downplaying your injuries. Seeking immediate medical attention will ensure your health and well-being and create a record of your medical evaluations, diagnosis, and treatment, which are all essential for your financial recovery. Follow the doctor’s instructions closely, as you don’t want the insurance company to argue that you failed to mitigate your injuries.
Should I Consult an Attorney?
If you try to navigate this complex legal process independently, you risk your rights and compensation. After leaving the accident scene, one of the most important things you can do to safeguard your rights is to hire an experienced personal injury attorney to help you investigate the circumstances of the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
At Alabama Personal Injury Lawyers, LLC, we are prepared to help you fight for the compensation you deserve and need to get your life back on track. If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, please don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated legal team to learn more about how we can assist you during these challenging times.
