After a slip-and-fall accident in public, you might feel embarrassed or clumsy. You might just want to dust yourself off and go home. But if you have injuries, this could be impossible.
Under these circumstances, retaining as much information as possible can be crucial if you decide to pursue a legal claim later.
Evidence of negligence
A slip-and-fall claim requires victims to satisfy specific legal requirements. Per Alberta’s Occupiers’ Liability Act, this means proving that a property occupier owed a duty to visitors and failed to uphold this duty.
In other words, you will need to prove that the owner had a responsibility to keep you safe but did not take the steps necessary to do so.
Evidence that could fulfil these requirements includes:
- Photos of the accident scene
- Surveillance recordings
- Maintenance records
- Details of the hazardous condition
- Statements from witnesses
Collecting this evidence may not be possible if you have already left the scene. Under these circumstances, you can work with a lawyer to investigate and secure information right away.
Details of your injuries
Another part of building a legal claim includes proving that the incident led to damages, including physical injuries and emotional distress.
Thus, make sure you retain information related to any medical care you required after the accident, including:
- Medical records
- Test results
- Lists of medications and dosages
- Schedules of hospital and clinic visits
- Contact information for your care providers
- Details on any medical equipment you require
Having all this information organized and in one place can make it easier to make the connection between the accident and your injuries.
How your injury changed your life
You will also want to consider how slip-and-fall injuries affect your life. Assessing how your life has changed can help you recognize just how disruptive and painful the accident has been for you.
Ask yourself:
- Do your injuries keep you from working?
- Do you require changes in your home to accommodate your condition?
- Are you unable to support your family?
- Have your injuries changed your relationships?
Your answers to these questions can affect settlement amounts and financial awards, so don’t overlook them.
Collecting all this information can seem overwhelming. However, doing so can help you maximize the financial and legal relief you may deserve.
