Slip-and-fall accidents can happen almost anywhere for a variety of reasons. You might trip over uneven pavement, tumble down a staircase that hasn’t been properly maintained, or fall on an icy surface. If you’ve sustained a serious injury and believe another person was liable for the slip and fall, then you might consider calling a lawyer to fight your case. However, there are a few steps you should take first.

A Guide to Slip-&-Fall Accidents

Seek Medical Care

Even if you feel confident you have a legal case on your hands, it’s essential to make sure your medical needs are taken care of. Depending on the extent of your injury, this might mean calling an ambulance or visiting your regular doctor or a nearby urgent care facility. This will ensure you have documented proof of your injuries.

Review Your Accident

Once your medical needs are met, call a lawyer to discuss the specifics of your case. An attorney can advise you on whether or not you have legal standing, but the basic rule of thumb is that you can bring legal action any time the injury is caused by the neglect of a property owner. Some examples include a business that doesn’t have proper outdoor lighting, a restaurant that allows ice and snow to accumulate on its front stoop, or public stairs that have broken handrails.

Determine Liability

If the slip-and-fall accident was truly due to the property owner’s neglectful upkeep, you might have grounds to receive compensation, but insurance companies will almost never pay this compensation to unrepresented individuals. That’s why it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to establish your case with the insurance company and prove the property owner was at fault.

Slip-and-fall accidents can sometimes have serious medical consequences, and it’s only natural that you’d want to receive fair compensation. The personal injury lawyers at Osborne, Tripp & Schmidt can work on your case and ensure justice is served. Serving the Coulee Region of Wisconsin, the firm is known for its legal acumen, as well as its friendly, approachable service. Visit them online or call (608) 269-2400 to learn more about their areas of practice.