Every day we walk into the world, we face risks. Having awareness for what’s happening around you can go a long way, but what about when unforeseen accidents happen?
Even something that might seem as small as a slip and fall happens more often than one might think, and it can lead to serious injuries.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths and hospitalizations among older adults. And they can happen anywhere.
“Slip and fall injuries run the spectrum from mild bruises, abrasions to serious lacerations, sprains, fractures, concussions and closed head injuries and death,” attorney Duncan Brown with Zamler, Shiffman & Karfis said.
Regardless of where someone might be when a slip and fall happens, what comes next is important, according to the law firm. Even if you feel fine, it’s possible for people to experience delayed injuries – hours or even days later.
What to do
Should you slip and fall inside or outside of a store, business or apartment, Brown said there are several things you should do.
- Seek medical attention. Prioritize your health by getting medical help immediately, even if injuries seem minor, as they can often appear many days after an accident.“ These injuries often result in time off from work and, in some instances, a permanent loss of employment,” Brown said. “The cost for treating such injuries can be substantial and may not covered by insurance. Sadly, medical debt for serious injuries often bankrupts a family.”
- Document the scene. Take photos of the accident scene, including any hazards that caused your fall. This evidence can be crucial should you need to build a case.
- Report the incident. Notify the property owner or manager about the accident as soon as possible. Make sure to get a written report if available.
- Gather witness information. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information. Their testimony could support your claim.
- Contact an attorney. Contact experienced attorneys who are well versed in all defenses, like those at Zamler, Shiffman & Karfis, who have been representing clients in cases like these for more than 50 years.
What not to do
Understanding what not to do should you slip and fall is just as important as what you should do.
- Avoid quick settlements. Do not rush into accepting a settlement. “From my experience, the owners and insurers of such properties to reduce their potential monetary obligations, will pressure injured individuals into a ‘quick settlement,’” said attorney Steve Karfis. “In many such instances, the true severity of the injury is not fully known. By signing a quick settlement, you may receive insufficient monies to compensate you for your injuries and associated damages. And, inevitably, they contain language which prohibits filing a lawsuit over the incident or receiving further compensation.”
- Don’t delay reporting. Failing to report the incident promptly can weaken any potential future case. Ensure the accident is documented as soon as possible.
- Don’t admit fault. Be cautious about what you say at the scene. Avoid admitting fault or downplaying your injuries, as this can be used against you later.
- Don’t neglect follow-up care. Continue with any recommended medical treatment and follow-up appointments. This not only aids in recovery but also provides documentation of your injuries.
According to Zamler, Shiffman & Karfis law firm, there has been a recent and significant change in Michigan law that is helping victims to get compensation they deserve when they have been injured in a slip and fall incident.
“These changes dramatically reduce the potential defenses the owners may present to avoid liability,” said attorney Steve Karfis, head of the firm’s premise liability team. “Premise liability cases are no longer routinely dismissed by a judge as a matter of law but are now submitted to juries for determination on the facts of an individual case.”
Attorney James Marco said the bottom line is that it is the absolute responsibility of owners of any property or store to ensure their properties are free from hazards on their floors, walkways, drives and parking lots.
Should you find yourself injured from a fall, attorneys at the law firm of Zamler, Shiffman & Karfis recommend following the guidelines above.
“It is in your, and your family’s, best interest to contact our office so that our experienced attorneys and staff can immediately begin working on your case to get you the compensation you deserve,” Marco said. “Our team is well versed in all defenses a defendant may claim to avoid responsibility.”
To contact law firm of Zamler, Shiffman & Karfis, call 1-800-LAWYERS or 248-557-1155, or email skarfis@zskpc.com.
