Slip and Fall Accident Mistakes to Avoid

slip and fall accidents slip and fall accident slip and fall mistakes senior adults

Slip and fall accidents happen all the time. They can happen at any public place, such as a store, sidewalk or parking lot or even on private property like a swimming pool. They happen to anyone, at any age (not just senior adults) and you can suffer minor bruises to a more serious head trauma.

  • Slip and fall accidents are one of the leading causes of hospital emergency room visits with over 1 million a year.
  • Fractures are the most serious consequences and occur in 5% of people who slip and fall.
  • As many as 15,000 senior adults (those over the age of 65) die every year as a result of a fall.

You may not know what you should do after a slip and fall accident, especially if you have been seriously hurt. Use this as a guide to help you navigate and know what slip and fall mistakes to avoid.


What You Should Do After a Fall

  • DO stay where your accident occurred and ask someone who witnessed the fall get help.
  • DO obtain medical treatment after a slip and fall whether you feel fine or not. Call an ambulance, go to a hospital, or see your own doctor. Not getting medical treatment can mean a serious injury is not treated or attributed to your slip and fall as some symptoms of serious physical trauma can be delayed.
  • DO document what happened. Take photos at the scene before it is cleaned up. Write down everything you remember. Make sure you keep detailed records and collect everything related to your case such as photos, reports, emails, texts, receipts, and other paperwork that can be used to prove the severity of your injuries.

Questions? Call us at (877) 284-6600, Chat Online or use our Text Us widget.


Slip and Fall Mistakes to Avoid

  • DO NOT leave without collecting evidence. This might include taking photos or videos, witness contact information, torn or ripped clothing or other items.
  • DO NOT fail to notify the property owner or manager. Be sure to bring the accident to their attention sharing only vital information such as the date, time and location of your fall.
  • DO NOT forget to check for surveillance videos. If the property or surrounding properties have surveillance cameras that could have captured your fall, be sure to take action to ensure they are preserved.
  • DO NOT discuss the details of the accident. You do not want to share details with the property owner, property manager or even the insurance adjuster; this can give them a chance to fix the problem (or possibly destroy evidence).
  • DO NOT provide a recorded statement to the insurance company. They are not looking out for your best interests and anything you say (recorded or not) may be used against you at a later date.
  • slip and fall accidents slip and fall mistakes personal injury claim senior adultsDO NOT speak to insurance companies – the one representing the property owner or even your own.
  • DO NOT wait to file a claim or consult with a personal injury attorney. By waiting you run the risk of losing evidence or missing critical deadlines to take action. An attorney can help you navigate the legal system and provide you with expert advice on the best way to proceed.
  • DO NOT accept a settlement without an attorney. Your attorney will have a better idea of the full extent of the damages you may recover. Once you accept a settlement, it is binding and you are unlikely to get additional damages in the future.

Seriously Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident?

Injuries from a slip and fall can affect one’s mobility and ability to live independently, taking months for the injuries to heal. It is one of the leading causes of injury and death in the elderly.

Having an attorney who is your advocate can offer you peace of mind during your recovery. We have a successful track record of helping accident victims collect the compensation they deserve. Call the Kansas City-based law firm of Nash & Franciskato at (877) 284-6600. One of our experienced staff will speak with you personally and will provide you with a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

START YOUR FREE CASE EVALUATION TODAY

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Find related blog articles: Slip and Falls and Premises Liability

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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published May 25, 2022. It was reviewed on August 23, 2023 and updated for content and accuracy.

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