When you are traveling along a sidewalk or through a store, you don't expect there to be any problems with the surface. Characteristically, walking surfaces are well prepared for pedestrians, even those who may have some sort of difficulty walking. That is why, when you suffer from a slip and fall, you typically blame yourself. Slip and fall accidents actually cover a lot more than slipping and falling. Anything that impedes your typical traversing of a relatively solid and stable surface is classified as a "slip and fall" by most attorneys. If you trip over a broken sidewalk, skid on a loose carpet, or slip on a patch of ice and receive a personal injury, you might be eligible for compensation from the property owner. The first thing you should do in case of a slip and fall accident is to seek medical attention. If you are seriously hurt, the medical responders will document the incident as accurately as thy can to the nature and cause of the accident. Make sure you retain a copy of their report to give to your lawyer once you contact him or her as soon after the accident as possible. There is no sense delaying treatment until you find out who is responsible. Get treated first and determine responsibility later. Second, assess the situation and see if you can determine what may have contributed or caused the problem. As you wait for medical help notice the condition of the surface that caused the fall. If you are with someone, have him or her make a note of what happened. Seek out the names and numbers of any witnesses that observed the accident. It may be a good idea to take a picture of the area with a cell phone in case somebody hastily cleans up a spill or the ice or whatever caused the accident to disappear. Thirdly, once you are sufficiently taken care of, consult an attorney. A good personal injury lawyer can help you review what happened and begin to build a case. Under premises law, the owner or tenet responsible for maintaining the property may be liable for damages. The attorney will know what the normal standards for reasonable safety are and be able to determine if the conditions of the property contributed or caused your personal injury. Avoid contact with the property owner or their insurance company. You don't want to sign anything that might preclude you from collecting your rightful damage claims. You should cooperate with any investigation, but do it with your legal counsel present to ensure your best interests are considered. Finally, don't blame yourself for the fall. Even if you are disabled, you are generally aware of your capabilities and most falls are caused by something outside your control. If your case is solid, you may be able to receive fair and adequate compensation from the owner of the property to help get you back on your feet as soon as possible.
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