You have unfortunately been involved in a slip or trip and fall accident. What are your next steps? If you are able to do so physically, get plenty of photographs and video of the condition that caused you to slip or trip. For example, broken steps, foreign substances or liquids on the floor, etc. Many times, it is these photographs and videos that can make or break your case. Florida Law is not “plaintiff friendly” when it comes to slip or trip and fall accidents, so it is vital to preserve as much evidence as possible. In some cases, the property owners will repair or fix the dangerous condition before Markwood Law Firm can get to the scene for an inspection. Unfortunately, we typically cannot use any evidence of the property owner fixing the dangerous condition as evidence that they knew it was dangerous. This is called the subsequent remedial measure rule. This is one of the reasons it is vital to get photographic and video evidence of the scene, if possible.
After you properly get photographs and video of the scene, it is always best to ask to create an incident report with the store. Immediately ask for a copy of the incident report after it is made. If you are feeling any pain immediately on scene, request that ems come and treat you at the scene and if your condition is severe to have them transport you to the emergency room. Insurance companies will always use it against you if you do not complain of any pain at the store but then seek medical treatment days or weeks after the incident. It is best to get it documented by medical records the day of the incident, if possible.
Next, call Markwood Law Firm so that we can immediately get involved to make sure all evidence needed, such as surveillance video, is preserved and to make sure that you are getting the necessary medical treatment. We can be reached at (561) 722-7710.
