Sustaining a personal injury on someone’s property
Whether it’s a home, business, or a public place, property owners are responsible for safely maintaining their property. This means the owner has an obligation to repair or adequately warn the visitors of dangerous conditions on the property. If you have sustained a personal injury on someone’s property, you may wonder what to do next.
What Should I do if I am Injured While on Someone Else’s Property?
First and foremost, seek medical care. It is essential to seek medical care immediately, as the severity of injuries is not always apparent when an accident occurs.
What to do
- Take photographs. Pictures tell a thousand words, and can provide tangible proof of dangerous conditions.
- Ask for names and contact information of anyone who may have witnessed your injury or has knowledge of the dangerous condition. Make sure you also get the property owner’s name and information if he is she is not present.
- If available, get a copy of the incident report. If you suffer a personal injury at a business, a store manager may create an incident report. Make sure you get a copy of the incident report before you leave, but do not sign anything.
- Know the statute of limitations for your state. It is essential to be aware of the statues of limitations that apply in your state (the specified time frame in which you must file for your claim to be valid). An experienced personal injury attorney who knows the laws of your state can ensure that your claim is filed promptly.
What Not to Do
- Avoid providing any statements to the premises owner, witnesses or insurance company.
- Do not say anything that could indicate fault on your part.
- Typically, after an accident a claims adjuster will contact you to get more information about your injuries. The job of most insurance adjusters is to persuade you to settle the claim immediately. Do not give a statement or sign anything without speaking to your attorney.
What do I need to prove a personal injury case?
Depending on the details of your case, you may be eligible to receive reimbursement for your medical bills, lost wages, and payment for damages you have suffered due to your injury.
Make sure to provide the following so it is easier to prove your case:
- Photographs of the dangerous or hazardous condition
- Names and contact information from anyone that may have witnessed the incident
- Evidence such as the shoes and clothes you were wearing when the incident occurred. Items should be secured without being washed or altered in any way
- Proof of lost wages from your employer
- Copies of the incident report
- Proof of injuries, damages, and medical treatment from the healthcare professionals who treated your injuries. Keep all bills and receipts of any out-of-pocket expenses you may incur as a result of the incident
Whether you need help with settlement negotiations or taking your case to trial, enlisting the counsel of knowledgeable personal injury lawyers can make a vital difference.
Contact us at Gold, Albanese & Barletti, LLC for more information or to discuss your case.