If you have injuries from a slip-and-fall accident at a store or parking structure, you may have serious injuries. Though falls are common, older people tend to suffer more catastrophic injuries. Property owners have an obligation to keep their property free and clear of reasonable and foreseeable hazards. If your injuries are serious enough, you can file a lawsuit for compensation to hold the negligent property owner liable.
In personal injury cases, the burden of proof falls to you, the plaintiff. Before you file a lawsuit for a fall accident in a store, make sure you have enough evidence.
Video/surveillance
Many places use surveillance systems to monitor their properties. If your accident takes place on vide, you can use it as evidence in your claim. Not all property owners are forthcoming with video surveillance. Depending on the circumstances, you might have to the courts issue a subpoena for it.
Written documentation
Get written statements from all bystanders immediately. Time and other factors can erode memory recollection and compromise witness information. Your written documentation should include the name and contact information of all witnesses, the time of the incident, and list all details. Also, you should file an accident report with the facility.
Medical records
Get medical attention after a fall accident to help establish and preserve evidence for your case. Even if you initially do not feel sore or hurt, you could have injuries that appear in the hours and days after the incident. If you do not receive medical care on the scene of the accident, go to the nearest emergency room to have them assess your condition.
Do not rely on your injuries or your recollection alone to support your accident claim. Failure to provide sufficient evidence could result in delays or lower compensation.
