The Dos & Don’ts of Building a Slip & Fall Claim

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If you fell on someone else’s property and bruised more than just your ego, you’re probably entitled to damages. Before you can pursue a payout, though, you’re going to have to put together a strong claim that demonstrates both liability and losses.

While every personal injury case is unique, there are a few general strategies that apply when building most tort actions. Read on to learn what they are, so you can seek the compensation you deserve:

1. Do Preserve Evidence from the Scene

If you managed to photograph the hazard that was responsible for the accident in the first place, make copies of the images, and store them in a safe place. Other evidence from the scene that’s worth preserving includes statements from those who witnessed the slip and fall, the incident report that the manager on duty drafted, and any available surveillance footage.

2. Don’t Post About the Accident on Social Media

You might be inclined to turn to your friends and followers on social media for support, encouragement, or advice after the accident. As long as your claim is pending, however, it’s best to avoid posting anything about the situation, the injuries you sustained, or the direction in which you intend to take your case.

Once you commence the proceedings, the insurance adjuster will probably take to monitoring your online activity. If you post anything at all that could open the door for some kind of dispute—or allow them to challenge your credibility in general—it could end up jeopardizing your claim.

3. Do Follow Your Doctor’s Orders

Seeking prompt medical care will ensure there’s a paper trail linking the slip and fall in question to the injuries you sustained. Make sure to follow all medical advice once you do, however, because ignoring your doctor’s orders could lead to complications.

If the opposing party can reasonably argue that you failed to mitigate damages, they can shift at least some portion of liability onto you. This, in turn, could reduce the total compensation to which you’re entitled accordingly.

4. Don’t Give a Recorded Statement

The insurance adjuster will probably reach out and request a recorded statement as soon as they learn of your pending action. They may even insist they can’t process your claim if you don’t give one.

It’s generally advisable to avoid committing to anything, however, until your legal team has completed their investigation and you’ve reached maximum medical improvement. Otherwise, you cannot be entirely certain of the cause of the accident or of the extent of your damages.

Speak with a Detroit Slip & Fall Attorney

If you were hurt on someone else’s property, you can count on the compassionate team at Seva Law Firm for exceptional legal guidance. Backed by our resourceful team, you’ll be able to pursue the maximum payout possible once we help you gather the evidence needed to prove liability and damages. Call (248) 385-5704 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with a slip and fall lawyer in Detroit.