What To Do If You Have a Slip and Fall in Alabama

Slip and Fall AccidentA slip and fall or trip and fall accident comes within an area of the law known as premises liability. Under Alabama law, a premises owner has a duty to keep their premises in a reasonably safe condition for a business invitee. The plaintiff or injured party has the burden of proof in slip and fall case to establish that the premises owner/operator knew or should have known of the dangerous condition on their property that caused the person to fall. This often is a tough burden to meet. However, this can be established in a variety of ways: 1. Does the premises owner have a policy and procedure whereby they monitor their premises; 2. If the fall was caused by a substance, was there such a large amount that they should have noticed it?; 3. If the fall was caused by a defect in the premises the premises owner is presumed to have notice and knowledge of the condition; and 4. If the defect was created by the premises owner they are presumed to have notice – i.e. leaving an object sticking out in the aisle.

As Huntsville Alabama slip and fall accident lawyers, here are a few tips on what you should and shouldn’t do following a fall:

  • Always report the fall to store personnel before you leave the store; however, do not admit fault to the store personnel.
  • If there are any witnesses be sure to get their names and contact information.
  • If you tripped over an object or slipped on a substance take pictures of where you fell and what caused you to fall with a camera phone.
  • Look around and see if you notice any cameras in the area that might have recorded your fall.
  • Preserve the shoes you were wearing at the time you fell.
  • Preserve and do not wash the clothes you were wearing.
  • Seek immediate medical treatment.
  • Consult with an experienced Huntsville, AL personal injury attorney.

Following these tips after an Alabama slip and fall accident can make the difference in whether a plaintiff will be able to prevail or not on their claim. If you or your someone in your family has been the unfortunate victim of a slip and fall accident, call the experienced Huntsville trip and fall attorneys at Martinson & Beason, PC for a free personal injury consult.