Slip and falls are among the most common accidents we see at our Delaware offices. A slip and fall can happen to anyone. It could be caused by something as simple as ice on a sidewalk or parking lot, or debris scattered on the ground, or a water leak that spreads across a warehouse floor. You might slip and fall at work, at a business, outside someone’s home or at a store when doing your shopping.

What should you do if you have a slip and fall accident?

If possible, alert (or have someone else alert) someone at the location, such as a manager. If possible, have pictures taken of the hazard causing your injury. If needed, you should seek medical attention quickly. After you have seen a physician and had your injuries treated, you can decide what to do next.

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Slip and Fall Accidents on Someone Else’s Property

Did your accident occur outside of your home? You may have suffered an injury due to someone else’s irresponsible behavior. For instance, maybe a business owner didn’t shovel the sidewalk outside after a blizzard and you slipped on the ice or snow. In these cases, you can take a few steps to protect yourself:

• Document any medical treatment you get for your injuries
• Take pictures of the place where the accident happened
• Inform the home or business owner of what occurred
• Note any possessions that may have been broken in your falls, such as a watch or smartphone

In most cases, these claims can be negotiated for you by an experienced injury attorney. You must be prepared to show that the other person is responsible for the accident, as their lawyer probably will try to prove that some or all of the responsibility for this injury is yours. If a lawsuit seeking damages following the accident needs to be filed, you will need to file suit within two years.

Applying for Workers’ Compensation

If your slip and fall accident occurred on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if you have to miss work time due to the injury. Workers’ comp covers part of your salary and the medical bills stemming from the accident. To file for workers’ compensation, you need to inform your workplace about your injury as soon as it happens.

In Delaware, you have two years from the date of the injury to file your claim — unless workers’ compensation benefits have already been paid. Unfortunately, employees are sometimes turned down for workers’ comp after being injured in a slip and fall accident. If this happens, you will need to consult an attorney.

Contact a Lawyer to Discuss Your Case

In many cases, employers, homeowners or business owners will offer you a settlement if you have been hurt in a slip and fall accident. You shouldn’t agree to anything until you have consulted with an attorney. A good personal injury lawyer can advise you on what you should do after a slip and fall injury. They will also help you file any paperwork and make sure everything is filled out correctly, as well as advise you on settlements.

If you need a lawyer in Delaware, contact Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, and Bhaya today.