As a parent, nothing is more frightening than seeing your child injured in an accident. Slip and fall accidents are quite common in Virginia Beach and Norfolk and may result in severe injuries to your child.
If your child suffers injuries in a slip and fall accident, it is vital to take steps to protect their rights and get them the compensation they deserve. One way to ensure you do everything possible to help your child is to retain an experienced premises liability lawyer immediately.
6 Crucial Steps to Take After Your Child's Slip and Fall Accident
Your actions after your child's slip and fall accident can significantly impact the strength of their claim and the compensation they receive. Here are six steps you should take:
1. File an Accident Report
The first thing you should do after your child is involved in a slip and fall accident is to file an incident report with the property owner or manager. The report will document the details of the accident, including the date, time, location, and cause of the fall. You should obtain a copy of the report and the contact information for the owner and their insurance company.
2. Get Prompt Medical Care
Even if your child does not seem injured, getting them checked out by a doctor as soon as possible is essential. They may not realize that they are hurt or be able to communicate the full extent of their injuries. Getting immediate medical care protects your child's health. It also can avoid disputes with the insurance company about the seriousness of your child's injuries and how they occurred.
3. Obtain Any Witness Contact Information
If there were any witnesses to your child's slip and fall accident, be sure to get their contact information. Witnesses can provide valuable testimony about what happened, which can help prove your case.
4. Take Pictures
Take photos of the accident scene before anything is changed. This includes pictures of the area where your child fell, any objects that may have caused the fall, and any injuries your child sustained. This evidence can be compelling evidence to show a jury and help you win your case.
5. Preserve Your Child's Clothing
Preserve the clothes your child was wearing during the accident in a sealed plastic bag, and do not wash them, as they may be vital evidence later.
6. Retain a Lawyer
Finally, it is crucial to consult a skilled premises liability attorney who can protect your child's rights. They can investigate the cause of your child’s fall, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue legal action if necessary.