Common Mistakes Made By Slip and Fall Victims

Wednesday, June 21, 2017 by The Law Offices of J. Jeffrey Herman

It can happen anywhere in Southern California.  Whether it is at the grocery store, the workplace or an outdoor sidewalk, slip and fall accidents bring devastating results.  A broken hip or a fractured skull can result in huge medical bills and even catastrophic injuries. When these accidents are the result of someone else’s negligence, it is vital to seek representation from an experienced and knowledgeable personal injury attorney. Before you speak to a legal professional, there are several other steps accident victims must address.

When a person has suffered a slip and fall accident, it can difficult to have the presence of mind to make good decisions. In many instances, accident victims are dazed, confused and may not be in proper physical or mental condition. However, by taking the following steps, slip and fall accident victims in Ventura County can place themselves in a better position to succeed and recover the maximum compensation to move on and live a good quality of life.

Tips On How to Collect the Maximum Compensation

When it comes to slip and fall accident cases, every dollar counts. Recovering the maximum compensation is crucial to account for all your medical bills, damages, lost wages along with your pain and suffering. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Do not avoid going to the doctor:  Far too many slip and fall accident victims fail to get their injuries properly documented. Some wait too long to seek medical attention. It is highly important to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do not have serious injuries, they can often manifest later.

• Do not forget to gather visual evidence:  Taking photos and videos of your injuries and the accident scene can go a long way towards getting the maximum settlement. Make sure you take close up photos as well as far away shots to help support your evidence.

• Do not forget to speak to witnesses:  When it comes time to prove your claim, it may be helpful to get a statement from any witnesses at the accident scene. Make sure to obtain contact information from anyone who witnessed the slip and fall.

• Do not apologize:  One of the worst mistakes people make is apologizing at the accident. Admitting fault can severely damage your slip and fall case.

• Don’t forget to report the accident to the owner or manager of the building: In many premises liability cases, accident victims make the mistake of leaving the scene as quickly as possible. Some leave out of embarrassment. Others simply forget to report the incident. Also ask the manager to write a report and request a copy.

A Ventura County Slip and Fall Accident Attorney Can Help

Slip and fall accidents are no laughing matter. Accident victims carry many physical and emotional scars. During this difficult time, it is crucial to have a personal injury attorney on your side with a track record of effectively helping clients navigate through the legal process and protect their rights. For more than 30 years, Ventura County slip and fall accident attorney J. Jeffrey Herman has helped countless men and women recover the maximum settlement to help them move on with their lives and recover from their injuries. He and his dedicated legal staff are committed to looking after the best interests of each accident victim. To learn more about how they can help, contact the Law Offices of J. Jeffrey Herman and schedule a consultation to discuss your case.