Accidents happen when we least expect them, and slip-and-fall accidents are no exception. Whether it’s stumbling on an uneven sidewalk or slipping on a wet floor, these incidents can quickly turn into painful experiences that may leave you with physical injuries and emotional distress.
When these unexpected events happen, fear and confusion can overwhelm you. Following a slip-and-fall incident, you might be unsure of where to start despite your intentions to handle everything correctly.
Follow the proper steps after a slip-and-fall accident to increase your chances of a successful personal injury claim and get the financial compensation you need to cover medical expenses and lost wages.
Steps to Take After a Slip-and-Fall Accident in Portland
Oregon reported 951 slip-and-fall deaths in 2022. [1]
Here is what we recommend a person do after experiencing a bad fall:
Get Proper Medical Attention
Prioritize your health after a slip-and-fall accident. Some severe injuries may not show immediate symptoms, so seeking medical care and establishing a medical record of your injuries is important for your well-being. Common types of injuries resulting from slip-and-fall accidents include:
- Cuts and lacerations
- Fractures and broken bones
- Head injuries
- Internal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
Report the Accident
Notify the property owner or manager of the premises where the accident occurred. This can be done in writing or through an incident report.
Provide details of how the accident happened, including the date, time, and location of the incident, as well as any contributing factors such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, or inadequate lighting. Reporting the accident helps create an official record and establishes that the accident did indeed occur on that specific property.
Multnomah County reported 166 visits to emergency departments relating to falls in a single day in 2024 due to the weather conditions — the highest in a single day since 2016. [2]
Gather Evidence Effectively
Collect as much evidence as possible to support your personal injury claim. Take photographs of the accident scene, including any hazardous conditions that caused your fall, such as wet floors or uneven surfaces.
If there were witnesses to the slip-and-fall accident, obtain their contact information, including names, phone numbers, and email addresses. Witness testimony can corroborate your account of the incident and strengthen your case by proving liability and the extent of your injuries.
Preserve Any Physical Evidence
If your clothing or personal belongings were damaged during the fall, keep them as evidence. Avoid washing or altering these items, as they may serve as proof of the accident, especially if they show signs of damage or contamination from the accident scene.
Take Notes
Write down everything about the accident, including the date, time, location, weather conditions, property damages, and other relevant details. Be specific about the location and nature of your injuries and any immediate pain or discomfort you experienced.
Keeping detailed notes after a slip-and-fall accident can help you accurately recall the events of the incident and provide valuable evidence to support your accident claim for compensation.
Document Your Injuries
Document your injuries to support your insurance claim for compensation. Take clear photographs of visible injuries, such as bruises, cuts, or swelling. Keep copies of all medical records, including emergency room reports, doctor’s notes, and diagnostic test results.
Attend all follow-up appointments with healthcare providers and record your progress during physical therapy or rehabilitation sessions. Keep track of all related expenses, such as medical bills, prescription medication costs, and transportation costs. In addition, document how your injuries have impacted your daily life, including missed workdays and changes in routine activities.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Informing your insurance provider allows you to initiate the claims process and seek coverage for any medical expenses or other losses incurred due to the accident. When notifying your insurance company, provide them with detailed information about the incident, including the date, time, location of the fall, and any injuries sustained.
Be prepared to provide documentation, such as medical records and receipts for expenses related to your injuries. Promptly informing your insurance company ensures that your slip-and-fall claim is processed efficiently and that you receive a fair settlement.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
Consult a personal injury attorney in Portland who specializes in providing legal services in premises liability and slip-and-fall accidents. The extensive experience of accident attorneys in slip-and-fall cases can provide invaluable support throughout the legal process. They will assess the circumstances of your accident, gather evidence, and advocate on your behalf to secure fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Whether negotiating with insurance companies or getting legal representation in court, a personal injury lawyer will work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. With their expertise and guidance, you can confidently navigate the legal system and focus on your recovery, knowing that your legal interests are in capable hands.
Understand Premises Liability Law
In the context of slip-and-fall accidents, the property manager may be the responsible party if they were negligent in addressing known hazards or failed to take reasonable steps to prevent accidents. It could include hazards such as wet surfaces, uneven surfaces, inadequate lighting, or lack of signage warning of potential dangers.
By understanding premises liability principles, you can better assess your legal options and seek compensation for your injuries from the liable party.
Cooperate With Investigations
If there is an investigation by insurance companies or legal authorities, cooperate fully and provide all necessary information to aid in determining liability and assessing the extent of your damages.
If you have recently been injured in a slip-and-fall accident in Portland, schedule a free consultation with Goldberg & Loren for legal assistance.
Sources:
[1] Death Data. (n.d.). Oregon Health Authority. Retrieved January 29, 2024, from https://visual-data.dhsoha.state.or.us/t/OHA/views/Oregon-deathsfromexternalinjuries/DemogDash?
[2] Tweet. (n.d.). Multnomah County, Oregon. Retrieved March 30, 2024, from https://twitter.com/multco/status/1748076659226579263
