The Role of Evidence in Proving Slip and Fall Claims
Premises Liability requires that property owners are responsible for maintaining safe conditions. If you slip and fall on commercial or private property, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. A slip and fall lawyer can use evidence from your case to establish liability and build a compelling case.
Why Evidence Matters
Evidence serves as the foundation for proving negligence and liability in a slip and fall case. By showing that the property owner failed to keep their premises safe from harmful conditions, you may improve your chances of receiving full compensation for your damages. Without sufficient evidence, it may be more difficult to substantiate your claims.
Types of Evidence in a Slip and Fall Case
Being proactive in gathering evidence after slipping and falling can help your slip and fall lawyer. Secure all documentation and information that is relevant to your case. Some evidence that helps establish liability includes:
Photos and Videos
Visual documentation of the accident scene can help prove that the property had unsafe conditions that the owner did not address. Take pictures of the accident scene, specifically what caused your fall. This may include wet floors, icy sidewalks, or uneven surfaces. Take a video to provide a clear depiction of the dangerous conditions and the property’s surroundings. This helps establish the circumstances of the accident. If you slipped and fell in a location that had surveillance cameras, ask the property manager if you can get a recording of your fall. This footage can provide video evidence of your fall and the events leading up to it, including the presence of hazards.
Incident Reports
Report the incident to local authorities after taking pictures and videos of the accident scene. If you fall on commercial premises, you may be asked to fill out an incident report. These reports document the details of the accident, including the date, time, location, and description of the hazardous condition. It can also include statements from witnesses or employees. If you do fill out the incident report, ask for a copy. You should also record the name and contact details of the person you reported the incident to.
Medical Records
You should seek medical attention immediately after slipping and falling. This is one of the best courses of action for your well-being, and it can document the extent of your injuries. After receiving medical treatment, ask for a copy of your records. These records can include your diagnoses, treatment plan, and prognosis. These records help establish the severity of your injuries and their relationship to the accident. This makes it more difficult for the defense to argue that you did not receive your injuries from the accident or that you are exaggerating your symptoms.
Witness Statements
If anybody saw your fall, ask them for their contact information. They may be able to provide valuable testimony about what they saw at the time of the incident. Witness statements may corroborate your account of the accident and provide additional credibility to your claim.
Contact a Slip and Fall Lawyer Today
Evidence helps establish liability in a slip and fall case by proving that the property owner failed to keep their premises safe. Taking steps such as documenting the scene of the accident, saving medical documentation, and gathering witness statements may help your slip and fall lawyer achieve maximum compensation for your case. The lawyers at Philly Slip and Fall Guys have over 30 years of experience. We help you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from a slip and fall incident. Contact us today for a free consultation, and we’ll help answer your questions.
