Are you unsure if the cause of your accident requires a slip and fall lawyer? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Understanding the importance of these legal professionals can be confusing. Today, we will explain the steps a slip and fall lawyer follows when preparing your case, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Immediate Steps to Follow After a Slip and Fall Accident
A slip and fall accident can vary greatly in its outcomes. While some falls result in no physical or psychological damage, others can lead to injuries of varying severity. If you have suffered a fall that has left you with significant injuries, it’s crucial to follow these steps:
Seek Medical Attention for the Injuries
A slip and fall attorney in Orlando will first ask whether you sought medical attention immediately after the fall. Depending on how the fall happened, three scenarios can occur:
- The fall left no injury.
- The fall caused a non-fatal injury but will impact your quality of life in the near future.
- The fall resulted in a fatal injury that imminently threatens your life.
In the second scenario, the potential complications should not be ignored even though the injury isn’t life-threatening. The longer you delay seeking medical attention, the harder it will be for your slip and fall lawyer to defend your case effectively.
Report the Accident to the Property Owner or Manager
In addition to seeking medical attention, you or your legal representative should report the incident to the owner or manager of the property where the accident occurred. Whether the owner is private or public, they must be aware of what happened.
How a Slip and Fall Lawyer Can Strengthen Your Case
Here’s how a slip and fall personal injury attorney can enhance your case and help you win the compensation you deserve:
Gather Evidence and Witness Statements
The quality of evidence is crucial in demonstrating that the accident led to a serious injury, justifying your compensation claim. Additionally, evidence helps prove the negligence of the property owner. As outlined in Florida Statute Section 90.402, an Orlando slip and fall lawyer knows that all relevant evidence is admissible, including:
- Eyewitness testimony
- Video footage from the accident site
- Medical reports
Analyze the Cause of the Accident
The same evidence collected helps determine the cause of the fall and who is responsible. A slip and fall lawyer will use this information to identify negligence. For instance, if a foreign substance caused the fall and was known to the property owner, it violates Florida Statute Section 768.0755, strengthening your case.
Factors That Can Influence Liability in Slip and Fall Cases
Determining liability in slip and fall cases is complex. A personal injury lawyer slip and fall will consider the following factors:
Knowledge of the Danger
Was the property owner aware of the imminent danger and failed to act? Property owners have a legal responsibility to maintain safe conditions. If they knew about the hazard and did nothing, this negligence can be used to your advantage.
Condition of the Property
The deterioration of the property where the fall occurred is the owner’s responsibility. For example, a “very large pothole” that caused your fall indicates the owner’s negligence, violating Florida Statute Section 768.10.
Plaintiff’s Actions
Did you, as the injured person, recognize the danger and act recklessly? Under Florida’s 2023 tort law reform and the “modified negligence rule” section, if the plaintiff is found to be 50% or more at fault, their right to compensation can be waived. This is a critical point your slip and fall lawyer will address.
Common Legal Mistakes to Avoid After a Fall Injury
Hiring a slip and fall accident lawyer helps you avoid several common mistakes:
Delaying Medical Treatment and Contacting an Attorney
Waiting too long to seek medical attention can severely harm your case. Even if your injury is not life-threatening, its effects might become apparent weeks or months later. Therefore, it’s essential to seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Failure to Document the Accident Scene
Documenting the scene is one of the best pieces of evidence you can have. It helps prove the possible cause of the fall. Remember, many slip and fall hazards are transient, like slippery substances, so immediate documentation is crucial.
How a Slip and Fall Lawyer Can Help You
Navigating the legal process alone can be overwhelming. An experienced slip and fall personal injury attorney has the expertise to analyze your case and defend your rights effectively. Here’s how they do it:
Navigating Your Legal Options for Maximum Compensation
Understanding complex laws is challenging, and defending yourself without legal knowledge is risky. Pedestrian accident attorneys leverage their understanding of local laws to advocate for their clients. For example, if a driver was distracted or speeding, your attorney can use this criminal behavior to strengthen your case.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, Louis Berk Law can help you understand your legal options and fight for your compensation. Contact us for a free consultation.
Contact Louis Berk Law Today
Don’t navigate the legal process alone. Contact Louis Berk Law today for a free consultation and get the legal support you need after your fall accident. Our experienced slip and fall personal injury attorneys are here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.