Steps to Take If You’ve Been Injured on Someone Else’s Property

January 12, 2024 Posted In Premises Liability

Suffering an injury on someone else’s property can be a disorienting and distressing experience, but taking the right steps is crucial to protect your well-being and preserve any potential legal claims. Here is a guide on the essential steps to take.

Prioritize Your Health

The immediate priority after an injury is your health. Seek prompt medical attention, even if the injuries seem minor. Timely medical care not only ensures your well-being but also establishes a crucial record of your injuries, which is pivotal for your claim.

Report the Incident

Notify the property owner, manager, or relevant authority about the incident. Ensure that the details are documented, and request a copy of the report if possible. This documentation can serve as valuable evidence later.

Document the Scene

If it is safe to do so, take pictures or videos of the accident scene. Capture any hazardous conditions, such as uneven walkways, poor lighting, or other factors that may have contributed to the injury. Visual evidence can be instrumental in establishing liability.

Gather Information

Collect contact information from any witnesses present. Their statements may prove valuable in supporting your version of events. Additionally, obtain the name and contact information of the property owner or manager.

Preserve Evidence

Preserve any evidence related to the accident. This may include clothing, footwear, or any objects involved. Do not alter or discard anything that may be relevant to your case.

Limit Communication

Be cautious about what you say at the scene and afterward. Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as accepting fault. Refrain from discussing the details of the accident with the property owner or their insurance company until you’ve consulted a lawyer.

Obtain Documentation

Keep records of all medical treatment and documentation related to your injuries. This includes hospital records, prescriptions, and receipts for injury-related expenses. These documents will be essential for assessing your losses and the amount of compensation you are entitled to.

Avoid Signing Any Documents

Do not sign anything, such as forms provided by the property owner, waivers, or insurance settlements, without first consulting a Riverside Premises Liability Lawyer. These documents could impact your ability to pursue legal action or may undervalue your claim.

Keep a Personal Record

Maintain a journal of your experiences, including the symptoms and impact of the injuries on your daily life. This can help provide context when your lawyer or a jury is assessing the extent of your suffering.

Consult an Attorney

Contact an experienced and trusted Riverside Premises Liability Lawyer as soon as possible. They can provide guidance and advice on the next steps, your legal rights, and assess the viability of a potential lawsuit. Once you hire an attorney, they will conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and evaluate the circumstances surrounding the incident to establish liability. 

They can also handle all communication and negotiations with the liable party’s insurance company, advocating for fair compensation to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages. If settlement discussions are unsuccessful, a lawyer can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that all necessary documents are filed, deadlines are met, and the case is presented effectively.