Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident in Lincoln, Nebraska
Slip and fall accidents can happen every day, especially in Nebraska during the winter months. People often fail to realize that even a minor fall can result in very serious injuries, and taking the right steps immediately following it can protect both your health and your right to financial compensation.
Getting Medical Attention Immediately
Even if your injuries seem minor, make sure that you get medical care right away. The most common fall injuries include head and back injuries, broken bones, and soft tissue damage. None of these should be treated lightly as they can all have long lasting effects on your body if they’re left untreated.
Another benefit besides your general health from getting your injuries looked at quickly is that medical records that are tied to them will be useful when it comes to filing your claim. The general rule of thumb is that the longer you wait to file your claim, the weaker it gets.
Report the Accident to the Property Manager or Owner
The purpose of reporting your injury to the owner of the property is for documentation. You want to create as much of a paper trail as you can in order to strengthen your case when the time comes. If possible, make sure you ask for a written incident report and stick to the facts of the fall without admitting fault or speculating on the cause.
Documenting the Scene
Documenting as much as you can while you are still at the scene is critical for evidence. Try and take as many photos and videos as you can and make note of the surrounding area the best you can. If there are warning signs or no warning signs, that should all be evident in whatever documentation that you have. When it comes to public spaces, evidence can disappear quickly which further stresses the importance of documenting it as urgently as possible.
Gathering Witness Information
If possible, try to get the names and contact information of anyone who saw the fall or the hazardous condition. Witness statements can help establish how long the hazard existed and whether the property owner had any type of notice. Tools such as the victim assistance program can be of great use in helping you gather witness information.
Common Mistakes Made After a Slip and Fall
The main mistake that victims of slip and fall injuries make is downplaying their injuries. Assuming that you’ll feel better without receiving any type of medical examination can really be detrimental to your overall recovery and your claim.
In addition, make sure you don’t submit any recorded statements to insurance companies without consulting legal advice first. Failing to do this can lead to improper results from the insurance company which can also impact your case.
Finally, stay of social media pertaining to your injury. Posts that you make can be used against you and your case so it’s better to not risk it and restrain yourself from posting about it.
Understanding Premises Liability Laws in Nebraska
According to Nebraska’s Political Subdivisions Tort Claims Act, a limited waiver of sovereign immunity, meaning government bodies may be sued only under specific circumstances and within strict deadlines. This is slightly different than the laws surrounding private property, which are significantly easier to file claims against in the courts.
The complexity of handling these types of claims is high, which is why utilizing your legal resources as much as you can, will be the most beneficial thing that you can do in terms of receiving your fair level of compensation for the fall.
Where to Turn for Legal Help
Your legal team should be on your side through and through. Especially after something as traumatic as a slip and fall accident, you want to make sure that you are in the right hands. Shasteen, Morris & Ockander PC located in Lincoln, Nebraska has a team of experienced personal injury attorneys that are here to help you. Make sure you reach out for your free consultation as soon as possible.
