Slip and fall accidents can happen unexpectedly, causing serious injuries and significant disruption to your life. At Kiley Law Group, with over 50 years of experience and more than $1 billion recovered for our clients, we understand the importance of taking prompt and appropriate action after such incidents. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the steps to take immediately after a slip and fall accident in Massachusetts or New Hampshire.
Seek Medical Attention
Your health should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Seek medical attention as soon as possible after your fall. This not only ensures your well-being but also creates an official record of your injuries, which can be crucial for any potential legal claim.
Report the Incident
Inform the property owner, manager, or relevant authority about your accident immediately. If the incident occurred at a business, request an official accident report and ask for a copy. In New Hampshire, property owners are expected to fill out an accident report detailing the relevant information about the incident.
Document the Scene
If you’re able, take photos of the area where you fell, including any hazardous conditions that may have caused your accident. This visual evidence can be invaluable in proving negligence. In Massachusetts and New Hampshire, property owners have a duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition.
Gather Witness Information
If anyone witnessed your fall, collect their names and contact information. Witness accounts can play a significant role in supporting your case.
Preserve Evidence
Keep the clothes and shoes you were wearing at the time of the accident without washing them. Any damage or stains could serve as evidence. In slip and fall cases, this physical evidence can be crucial in demonstrating the conditions that led to your accident.
Document Everything
Keep a detailed record of the incident, including when and where it occurred, the weather conditions, why you were on the property, and how the property owner or manager handled the situation. This information can be vital for your case, especially in states like Massachusetts and New Hampshire where premises liability laws apply.
Avoid Making Statements
Refrain from giving detailed statements about the accident to the property owner or their insurance company. Do not accept blame or assign it to others. In both Massachusetts and New Hampshire, determining fault in a slip and fall case requires a thorough investigation. Additionally, be careful and do not post anything on social media, as this may be used against you.
Consult with an Attorney
Before accepting any settlement offers or providing recorded statements, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. At Kiley Law Group, we have extensive experience handling slip and fall cases in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. We can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Remember, in New Hampshire, you typically have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit following a slip and fall accident (NH Rev Stat § 508:4). However, it’s best to start the process as soon as possible to ensure all evidence is preserved and witnesses’ memories are fresh.
At Kiley Law Group, we understand the complexities of slip and fall cases in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing compassionate, dedicated representation to help you navigate this challenging time. With our extensive experience and proven track record of success, we’re ready to put our expertise to work for you.
If you’ve been involved in a slip and fall accident in Massachusetts or New Hampshire, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kiley Law Group. We offer free consultations and are available 24/7 to answer your questions and guide you through the legal process. Remember, time is of the essence in personal injury cases, so contact us today to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
