On a yearly basis, around one million Americans get injured from a slip and fall accident according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Further exhibiting just how frequent this type of accident is, the CDC estimates that 15% of job-related injuries in the country can be attributed to such a happening. If you ever get involved in one, it’s important to hire a personal injury lawyer Stuart FL to help you get compensated rightfully.
Read on to find out what you should know about the rather tedious process of personal injury claim process.
The Need To Prove Negligence
Ask any personal injury attorney Stuart FL and you’d get the same answer: Not all who suffer from a slip and fall accident are entitled to file a claim. First and foremost, you have to establish three key points.
First is that the owner of the property where the accident took place (e.g. Homeowner, the company who owns the building) should be knowledgeable of the presence of hazard within his or her premises.
Second, the owner should be proven that he or she did not take action to keep you protected from the potential injury that could happen. For instance, does he or she not regularly inspect the premises and fix potential injury-causing elements?
Lastly, the very negligence of the owner should be the reason why you’ve obtained injuries.
In the process of proving the other party’s negligence, you should also show that your accident is not caused by your own carelessness. For example, if you were injured because you ignored a warning sign, it might be hard for you to win an injury claim.
What You Should Do
While hiring a personal injury attorney Stuart FL will give you a significant advantage, it’s important to know that there are things you need to accomplish urgently.
Report to the property owner. You should immediately bring the matter to light by contacting the owner of the premises or anyone who is connected with the owner.
Look for witnesses. To help strengthen your claim, it’s also vital to look for witnesses if there are any. Get the names, contact information, and their initial testaments.
Document the site. Whenever possible, it’s also recommended to take photos or videos of the accident to help prove what really caused it — that it is not a result of your own carelessness or negligence.
Seek medical attention. Of course, you have to get your injuries treated as well. Keep your bills and medical records in a safe place, as these can be used as proof for your claim.
Why Hire A Personal Injury Attorney
Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer Stuart FL will increase your likelihood to win your claim. Apart from giving you proper guidance, he or she can also help you with the paperwork needed to be submitted to respective authorities.
He or she will also aid you when it comes to talking to your insurer and the other party’s insurance provider. The goal is to help you present your case to the court as strongly as possible and get the compensation you’re entitled to.
