If you slip and fall on someone else’s property, it is essential to report the incident immediately. Otherwise, any subsequent personal injury claims will be missing a critical piece of evidence and may not result in the compensation you deserve. Below, the legal team at Riggs, Ellsworth & Porter, PLC, of Show Low, AZ, explains how to draft this crucial document. 

Document the Scene

Documenting the scene immediately after the incident ensures you do not forget important details when drafting the report. This includes photographing the cause of the slip, getting the names and contact information of any eyewitnesses, recording the weather conditions if they are relevant, and photographing injuries that are visible right away, like lacerations.

It is wise to document everything before even leaving the scene, so no one on the premises has the opportunity to alter it. Only seek the manager or property owner and request they fill out an official accident report after you first photograph the cause of the fall.  

Include All Essential Details 

Regardless of what the liable party includes in their portion of the accident report, there are several pertinent details to add to yours. Record the date and time of the accident, the precise location, a description of what happened, any witness statements with corresponding contact information, and injuries or symptoms that were immediately apparent.

Every business should already have a procedure in place for reporting accidents. If you were hurt on residential property, though, and the landlord does not have a template for doing so, you can get one from a personal injury attorney. Give a copy of the report to the liable party, and keep the original as you will need it to build a strong claim. 

If you were hurt in a slip and fall accident because the property owner failed to maintain the premises, turn to Riggs, Ellsworth & Porter, PLC. With offices in Mesa, Queen Creek, and Show Low, AZ, this personal injury firm helps accident victims all over the state recover the compensation they deserve. Their areas of expertise include medical malpractice, motor-vehicle collisions, Social Security disability, and wrongful death. Call (928) 537-3228 or visit their website to schedule an initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer today.