We’re in the thick of winter here in Western New York, which means we’re no stranger to the risk of falling on ice. The unfortunate reality is that slips and falls can lead to serious and lasting injuries. For this reason, our experienced injury lawyers want to share with you one of the biggest mistakes we see individuals make after a fall.
The mistake? Not reporting the fall.
Let’s be honest: falls happen to the best of us, and it can be embarrassing. All too often, embarrassment or some other excuse causes the person who fell to avoid reporting the fall, especially if she doesn’t think she’s got lasting injuries. There are many reasons why this approach isn’t in your best interests.
For example, if you fall on ice but don’t report it, you may not have sufficient proof to make a claim if your injury worsens over time. Remember, not all injuries present themselves immediately.
To avoid this risk, we always recommend reporting a fall to the property owner as soon as possible, ideally right after the fall, and, at a minimum, the same day as the fall.
Even if you don’t end up needing to make a claim for your injuries, reporting the fall should prompt the property owner to address the hazard and make the area safer for your fellow winter warriors.
Injuries are complicated. If you don’t know how to protect your rights, you may be left out in the cold (literally and metaphorically). If you’ve been injured, and you’re not sure what to do, call us. There’s never a fee to talk to a lawyer and get an assessment of your claim.
