A Personal Injury Lawyers Tips for Slip and Fall
The personal injury lawyers at Clekis Law Firm would like to offer tips if you have been involved in a slip and fall. Getting the attention of a store employee when you need help finding a product can sometimes be difficult, but if you fall on the premises, you typically get instant access to store management. These individuals naturally want you to obtain the help you need for your injuries, but they also want to protect the business from liability. If you suffer injuries, you need to understand your rights and responsibilities in these situations.
Whether you sustain serious injuries immediately, or you are concerned significant injuries may become apparent later, your primary responsibility is to seek medical assistance. Store management may try to discuss the accident or even ask you to sign forms. The following list of DOs and DON’Ts can help get you to the doctor and protect your legal rights if you need to file a premises liability claim:
DO provide basic contact information to the store management.
DON’T complete or sign any release forms; but
DO be sure to file a written report so your accident is documented.
DON’T let your embarrassment prevent you from sharing any physical problems you may be experiencing.
DON’T say you are fine, when you are unsure if you will later develop pain or symptoms.
DO ask to see a doctor of your own choosing.
DO make a mental note of the possible causes of your accident — taking pictures, if possible.
DON’T discuss what happened with store employees, except to point out what dangerous condition caused your fall.
If your case goes to court, you need to understand that in South Carolina, personal injury cases rely heavily on case law, rather than statutes. Even though jurors receive extensive legal instructions, premises liability cases can be greatly affected by what the victim says and does at the time of the accident. One of the best ways to protect your legal rights is to focus solely on your injuries until you have discussed your case with an experienced personal injury attorney.
If you or a loved one sustains injuries in an accident caused by dangerous premises, you first need to seek medical assistance. However, you also need to talk to an experienced personal injury lawyer to protect your rights to a claim. For a free consultation, contact The Clekis Law Firm to learn more about your options.