Yes! Set aside and save the shoes and clothing you were wearing, and anything you were carrying at the time of your fall. Don’t launder the clothing or wear the shoes again, as the condition of these items at the time of the fall may be important.
Should I wait to see if my pain goes away before seeking medical attention?
No! If you are injured, seek medical attention promptly. Your injuries must be medically documented in order for you to obtain recovery.
Who pays my medical bills?
Your own auto insurance company will pay your medical bills up to the limit of medical coverage on your auto policy. If your accident happened in the course of your employment, your employer’s workers’ compensation carrier will pay. Your private health insurance company may pay your bills after you have exhausted the limit of medical coverage under your own auto policy.
Who pays for my income loss?
If you have income loss coverage under your own auto policy, your own insurance company will pay 80% of your income loss beginning on the sixth day of loss up to the limit of income loss coverage on your policy. If the accident happened in the course of your employment, your employer’s workers’ compensation carrier will pay 2/3 of your average weekly wage beginning on the eighth day of disability.
Do I have to talk to the other party’s insurance adjuster?
No! You should tell the adjuster that you have contacted an attorney and promptly end the conversation.
What should I tell the doctor?
Be honest and thorough in describing your injuries to your doctor. Never exaggerate or minimize your symptoms.
How much will you charge me to discuss my accident?
Zero.
Should I report my injury to the property owner?
Yes! Preferably, you should report your injury to the property owner before you even leave the property. Ask if they have an incident report form and insist upon filling it out and getting a copy before you leave. If you have already left, return immediately and report your injury. Attempt to get the names of any witnesses, if possible.
Are witnesses important?
Yes! Witnesses who can describe the dangerous condition that caused your fall, how long it had existed prior to your fall, and who saw your fall are very important. Therefore, get names, telephone numbers and addresses of witnesses.