What should be done if a slip-and-fall accident occurs in Cherry Hill? Knowing how to handle the issue can make a big difference because falls can cause major injury. Let’s explore the necessary steps to take following a slip and fall.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After a slip and fall, it’s essential to prioritize health by seeking medical attention right away. Seeking medical attention from a professional is crucial, even if the damage appears to be small. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, may not show immediate symptoms but can worsen over time. A Cherry Hill slip and fall lawyer can assist with gathering medical records later on to support the claim.
A timely medical visit also creates a documented record of injuries, which is critical for any future legal action. Insurance companies and courts will look for evidence of medical care right after the accident. Delaying treatment might hurt a case, as it could be argued that the injuries were not serious. Always err on caution and see a doctor if an accident occurs.
Report the Incident
Notifying the responsible party is crucial whether the fall occurred in a store, office building, or on public property. This creates a formal record that the accident took place. Property owners are often required by law to keep their premises safe, and a report establishes the beginning of the legal process.
Keep a record of the incident in as much detail as you can. Note the location, time, and any potential hazards that led to the fall, such as a wet floor, poor lighting, or uneven pavement. If possible, photograph the scene to preserve evidence. When speaking with a slip-and-fall attorney about the issue, this documentation will be useful.
Understand Liability
Slip and fall cases in Cherry Hill often hinge on proving liability, which means identifying who is responsible for the accident. In most cases, the property owner or manager is held accountable for maintaining a safe environment. If the owner knew about the hazard and did not fix it, they might be liable for damages. To ascertain culpability, an attorney from a respectable business can assist in evaluating the accident’s facts.
Understanding how liability works can help determine whether legal action is worth pursuing. Sometimes, multiple parties may be at fault, such as contractors responsible for maintaining the property. An attorney can investigate the case and help identify all potentially liable parties.
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File a Claim or Lawsuit in Cherry Hill
If the injuries are severe and the property owner or their insurance company is uncooperative, filing a claim or lawsuit might be necessary. This step should be done with the guidance of an experienced lawyer. A lawyer from a reputable firm will know how to handle the paperwork, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent clients in court if needed.
Before filing a claim, understand the statute of limitations for these cases in New Jersey, typically two years. Missing this deadline can bar recovery, so acting promptly is important. Additionally, an attorney can help calculate the case’s value, considering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Seeking medical care, reporting the incident, gathering evidence, understanding liability, and considering legal action are all critical steps. Consulting a Cherry Hill slip and fall lawyer early in the process can help guide the steps and ensure that rights are fully protected. Victims can improve their prospects of getting just compensation for their losses and injuries by acting appropriately.
