Slips, trips and fall injuries are the most common types of injuries. Uneven walkways or steps, wet and/or oily surfaces loose or un-anchored mats, deteriorating concrete, poor lighting, a foot striking an object, icy conditions, are all contributors to fall incidents. For an injured person to make a claim for general damages (pain and suffering) caused by another party (person, company and/or business), the victim must have suffered a compensation injury. This means that there must be “damage” suffered by the victim because of the negligence of another party. The damage can also include income loss.
Fall injuries may result in severe damages such as traumatic brain injury, concussions, fractures (ankles, wrists, shoulders, pelvis), bulging discs or other soft tissue injuries. It is of the utmost importance to seek immediate medical attention after a serious injury resulting from a fall accident.
IF YOU SUFFERED AN INJURY, HERE’S WHAT TO DO
- Take several photos! – Take photos of the fall site, using a ruler to mark the height and depth of the discrepancy (if you can’t, have someone do it for you) – the photo should show how deep the discrepancy is
- Witnesses – It is important to take down the names and phone numbers of any witnesses to your incident.
- You should know that- If you fell on a business property, make sure the person responsible for the business completes an incident report. If an incident report is available, request a copy of it.
- Immediately seek medical attention or as soon as possible
- If an ambulance is called, it is suggested you use it
- Keep a journal/timeline of the events from the day of your incident forward
- Keep track of all your receipts for prescription, parking, travel expenses, etc.
- Notice Letters
- The notice letter must contain: your name, contact information, date of incident, description of incident and must be signed and dated
- Limitation Period
- You should be aware that the Limitation Period for any fall incident resulting in injuries is two (2) years from the date of your incident
- This means that you must formally start legal proceedings with the court against the at-fault party (the party who is responsible for your injuries) before the two-year limitation expires.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a slip/trip and fall accident, do not hesitate to contact Sheila P. Marcantonio, Personal Injury Lawyer at Lancaster Brooks & Welch LLP for your free consultation, 905-641-1551.