Posted on Tuesday, February 11th, 2025 at 8:00 am
After a slip and fall accident, it is natural to feel disoriented, especially if you have sustained serious injuries and are dealing with medical bills. However, always recognize that what you immediately do after a slip and fall accident can significantly impact your ability to seek compensation for your damages.
The best way to know what to do or not do is to consult a slip-and-fall attorney. At the law firm of Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C., we advise victims on steps to take and their legal options. We can also handle every step of the legal process to relieve this stress from your shoulders.
5 Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall in Georgia
What to do after a slip and fall in Georgia depends on your situation, but the following are some commonly recommended steps to take. Given the two-year statute of limitations to file a lawsuit in Georgia, it is wise to act quickly and start the claims process early.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Slip and fall accidents can lead to surprisingly serious injuries, and over one million people visit emergency rooms across the country each year for slip and fall injuries.
A medical evaluation can determine the nature of your slip and fall injuries and their extent so you can promptly begin treatment. Additionally, medical records document the extent of your injuries and link them to the slip and fall accident. This is critical evidence in personal injury cases in Georgia.
2. Report the Accident
If your accident happened in a store or another business, notify the property owner, manager, or someone else in charge about the accident as soon as possible. Request that an incident report be created and, if possible, obtain a copy. This document provides an official record of the accident and can serve as evidence during the insurance process.
Take a photo of the incident report if it is provided to you, as business owners often refuse to share a copy during the claims process. Having this document early can help shape how your attorney builds your case and prepares for a potential lawsuit.
3. Identify What Caused the Slip
Simply slipping in a store is not enough to establish liability in Georgia. To hold a property owner accountable, it is critical to identify the specific hazard that caused your fall. Was it a spilled liquid, a loose rug, or a piece of produce? Determining the exact cause of your slip can significantly strengthen your claim and ensure the responsible party is held liable.
4. Witness Information
Were there people who witnessed the accident? If so, obtain their names and contact information. When required to do so, they can be called upon to give their accounts of the incident to strengthen your claim. Their testimony can be especially valuable if the property owner disputes your version of events.
5. Consult a Slip-and-Fall Lawyer
Georgia law holds property owners responsible for injuries sustained on their premises due to preventable hazards or conditions. However, it is not uncommon for property owners to deny claims to avoid liability.
Never bring a claim without an attorney, as many complications and challenges can arise. Ensure that you consult a Georgia slip and fall attorney immediately to advise you, begin building your case, and take the steps toward a favorable outcome.
What Not to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident
Equally important is understanding what you should avoid following a slip and fall to protect yourself and your claim.
First, never admit fault or apologize for the incident. While it is natural to feel embarrassed or apologetic, doing so can be misinterpreted as an admission of guilt. This can potentially weaken your case if you decide to pursue legal action. Instead, focus on gathering evidence, such as taking pictures of the scene, identifying witnesses, and documenting the conditions that caused your accident.
Refrain from discussing the details of your injuries with the insurance company or the property owner’s representatives without first consulting an attorney. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and any statements you make could be used against you to diminish or deny your claim. Never accept a settlement offer from a business or insurer without first having your slip-and-fall attorney review it.
Seek Legal Help From a Slip and Fall Attorney in Georgia Today
At Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C., our legal team understands the challenges victims of slip and fall accidents face and is ready to advise you on how to move forward confidently. Waiting too long can affect your case, so call us today at 770-205-8887 to learn your options. We offer free initial consultation.