
Accidents can happen anywhere, including on commercial properties. Whether you slip and fall in a grocery store or are injured at a shopping mall, it's important to know what steps to take if you sustain a personal injury on someone else's property. In this article, we will discuss the importance of hiring a lawyer and the legal steps you should take following an accident on a commercial property.
Seek Medical Attention
The first step after sustaining a personal injury on a commercial property is to seek medical attention right away. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, it's essential to get checked out by a healthcare professional to ensure there are no underlying issues. Not only is this important for your well-being, but it also creates documentation of your injuries that can be used in any legal proceedings.
Document the Incident
It's crucial to gather as much evidence as possible following the accident. This includes taking photos of the scene, obtaining contact information from any witnesses, and making notes about what happened leading up to the incident. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be if you decide to pursue legal action against the commercial property owner.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
One of the most important steps you can take after sustaining a personal injury on a commercial property is to contact a personal injury lawyer. When dealing with injuries, it’s crucial to have professional legal support to ensure your rights are protected. A skilled attorney will be able to assess your case, determine the extent of liability, and provide guidance on your legal options.
They can help you gather necessary evidence, such as medical records and witness testimonies, to build a strong case. Additionally, they will assist you in navigating the complex process of filing a claim against the responsible party, negotiating with insurance companies, and pursuing appropriate compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Know Your Rights
It's essential to understand your rights when it comes to personal injury cases on commercial properties. The property owner has a duty of care to maintain safe premises for visitors, which includes regularly inspecting the property, addressing potential hazards, and providing adequate warnings about any known dangers. If they fail in that duty, they may be held liable for any injuries that occur as a result.
This liability can cover a range of scenarios, from slip and fall accidents due to wet floors to injuries caused by faulty equipment or inadequate security measures. It may even cover incidents that happen on the sidewalk outside a shop or in the parking lot. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can help you navigate these laws and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
File a Claim
If you decide to pursue compensation for your injuries sustained on a commercial property, your lawyer will help you file an official claim against the responsible party. This may involve negotiations with insurance companies or even filing a lawsuit in court. Having an experienced attorney by your side can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.
Sustaining a personal injury on a commercial property can be overwhelming, but knowing what steps to take can make all the difference in getting justice and compensation for your injuries. By seeking medical attention promptly, documenting the incident thoroughly, contacting a personal injury lawyer, knowing your rights, and filing an official claim against the responsible party, you can protect yourself and hold negligent property owners accountable for their actions.
Contact our team at the Law Office of Janice Maloney to learn more about upholding your rights and receiving compensation.