Even when you’re careful in public spaces, it’s still possible to find yourself in a slip-and-fall situation. And if you sustain injuries, you might want to take action against property owners for failing to maintain a safe space.

It’s important to know your rights. In the article that follows, we’ll unpack the details of slip-and-fall accidents and help you make the right move.

Understand What a Slip-and-Fall Accident Is

A slip-and-fall accident occurs when a walkway or surface’s condition causes you to fall. This event happens on property that is not your own. You could endure a slip-and-fall accident in a coffee shop, hotel, concert hall, or grocery store. Several common scenarios can cause these accidents. Maybe the floor is slippery after someone spilled a drink and the maintenance staff failed to clean it. Shredded or torn carpets and uneven sidewalks can cause trip-and-fall situations, as well.

If a floor has been freshly mopped but there isn’t a caution sign indicating as much, it’s too easy to slip on the slick surface. And if a concert venue or store doesn’t have adequate lighting, poor visibility can lead to slips.

Take Action Right Away

While some falls may not result in debilitating injuries, others could. It’s best to seek medical attention to address issues that may not reveal themselves right away. Concussions or chronic pain, for instance, can start to cause problems in the days following an accident. It’s also smart to report the accident so there is formal documentation, and a store manager should be willing to help. Take photos, too, to capture the conditions that led to the slip and fall and gather contact information from any witnesses. Ultimately, these quick actions can help you establish evidence if you choose to pursue a claim.

Be Clear on State Laws

If you move forward with a claim, don’t assume that there are blanket rules covering slip and falls in all states. If you experience a slip-and-fall accident in Colorado, for instance, the laws could be different than those in other states. You’ll want to know specific deadlines and damage limits. And you’ll need to understand that you may not see as much compensation if you share some of the blame for the accident.

Look for resources in your state that can help you understand what to do. If you’re in Colorado, seek out legal guidance for premises liability injury with reputable attorneys. You’ll be able to see how state laws impact your situation.

Gather Key Evidence

You can strengthen your case with the right mix of evidence. Photographs of the scene where the accident occurred can show conditions accurately. Similarly, footage from any security cameras can verify what happened.  Ask for statements from witnesses. And if you need medical attention, collect all associated documents, including bills, to demonstrate how the slip-and-fall accident has affected your health and finances.

Consider Negligence

While you might be upset about slipping and falling at the grocery store, the store owner may not be at fault. You’ll need to show that the negligence of that owner contributed to the dangerous conditions. Consider whether the property owner knew there was a problem with the flooring but failed to act. If you can show that the owner did not take action to fix the issue or at least warn people with signage, it’s easier to show negligence. You’ll need to show that the conditions caused your accident, too.

Know the Timeline

Slip-and-fall timelines aren’t always consistent, so it’s best to be prepared. Knowing what steps are part of the process can help you track progress.  Right after an accident, you’ll need to gather evidence and consult with an attorney. You’ll also need to file your claim by the deadline indicated in your state. From there, the process moves into the investigation stage, which can extend into several months.

Your attorney will try to negotiate and advocate on your behalf. Usually, it’s possible to avoid time in court. But if going to court is necessary, the timeline could stretch another few months.

Be Prepared After an Accident

A slip-and-fall accident can derail your life if you sustain injuries that keep you from work. That’s why it’s so critical to move quickly to document what happened and seek legal help. A seasoned attorney can help unpack what happened and guide you through the claims process. When you’re prepared to take action after an accident, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother path forward.