6 Steps to Follow Before Calling a Baton Rouge Slip & Fall Lawyer
A slip and fall accident can occur anytime, anywhere. Shopping centers, stores, office buildings, and more may have treacherous conditions that lead to your accident. Wet or slick floors, loose flooring, poor lighting, or exposed cords can trip individuals and lead to serious injury. If you have suffered an accident like this, contact a Baton Rouge slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible! The lawyers at Williamson Campbell & Whittington, LLC are ready to help you gain compensation for your injuries. And while contacting us should happen soon after your accident, there are six steps you can follow as soon as your accident occurs.
1. Report Your Accident to the Manager
Depending on the outcome of your accident, your first thought may be to quickly vacate the premises. This may be due to embarrassment, or you may need to tend to any injuries quickly. But, you must not rush from the scene of the accident. Your first step after a slip and fall accident is to alert management and get a copy of an accident report. And, make sure to get a copy of the police report if first responders were called to the scene.
2. Don’t Give a Statement Until Speaking With an Attorney
While apologizing for an accident may be a knee-jerk reaction for many—don’t apologize for your slip and fall. Take the time to first determine where the fault lies. This also applies to who you assign blame to for your injuries. Even if you believe the property owners should be held responsible for your accident, don’t make statements until after you have collected evidence and spoken with your Baton Rouge slip and fall lawyer from Williamson Campbell & Whittington, LLC. And, don’t provide your insurance company with your statement until speaking with your attorney to prevent lowering your settlement amount.
3. Get Accounts From Any Eye Witnesses
If you are able, make sure to gather any evidence you can before leaving the premises. This includes speaking to any witnesses of the accident and gathering their contact information. These individuals may need to make a statement later on to support your claim. Also, make sure to take any pictures that further back up your accident, such as the location, anything that caused the fall, and any signs of blood from your injuries. And, make sure to keep your unwashed clothing from the accident which may also be used as valuable evidence.
4. Take Care of Injuries With Medical Treatment
Your health and wellness are the first priority after an accident. While gathering evidence and talking to management is very important, don’t ignore your injuries. Go to the doctor as soon as possible to assess any injuries. And, make sure to gather a copy of your medical report. This is essential evidence for your claim, but your Baton Rouge slip and fall lawyer also knows the information you need to strengthen your claim. Take care of your injuries following the accident, and follow any medical advice you are given.
5. Don’t Miss Physical Therapy Appointments
If your medical provider recommends physical therapy, make sure to schedule and attend your appointments. This goes for any follow-up doctor’s visits, as well. If you skip these appointments, this can provide insurance companies with fuel against your claim. It is important to show that you are responsibly tending to your injuries, and you are not downplaying the damage you have suffered. Otherwise, this could result in a lower claim amount.
6. Don’t Share Details of the Accident on Social Media
You shouldn’t share a statement with insurance companies or witnesses until you have worked with your Baton Rouge slip and fall lawyer. This goes for social media statements, too. Don’t share pictures or information on any social media platforms, as this can be used against your claim. Also, any pictures that portray you as healthy or pain-free can negatively impact your case. When in doubt, play it safe and avoid social posting until after your claim has been settled.
File Your Claim With an Experienced Baton Rouge Slip and Fall Lawyer
A knowledgeable Baton Rouge slip and fall lawyer can help you to protect your statement and maximize your claim. And, they are equipped to gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and represent you in court without jeopardizing your case. At Williamson Campbell & Whittington, LLC, we provide excellent service while also offering care and compassion following your accident. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation! Message us through our website, or give us a call at 225-383-4010. From slip and fall accidents to other personal injury cases, we are ready to help you with your legal needs!