A trip to the grocery store is an errand we take for granted. But slips and falls can happen anywhere, even in the local supermarket. If you’ve taken a tumble in a Missouri supermarket, you may be unsure of what steps to take next. This guide will walk you through the proper actions after slipping in a store to protect yourself medically and legally.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
First and foremost, if you’ve fallen and suffered any injury, seek medical care right away. Symptoms like pain, bruising, cuts or swelling may seem minor at first. But some injuries worsen over time without proper treatment. It’s always safer to get examined and assessed thoroughly after an accident.
Tell the doctor precisely what occurred and describe all symptoms you’re experiencing. Follow up on all medical advice closely, including medications, restrictions, therapy or referrals. Save all treatment records and bills carefully in case needed later as evidence. Don’t downplay anything or make assumptions about the severity of the injuries. Some damage is not immediately visible.
Thoroughly Document the Incident
If you are able, gather detailed information about your fall quickly while it’s fresh. Take multiple photos of any unsafe conditions that contributed like spills, cluttered aisles, damaged flooring or lack of warning signs. Note the exact location in the store, what you slipped on, employees present, safety precautions you took and anything else relevant. Obtain contact information from any witnesses willing to give a statement later if needed.
Report the full details to the store manager immediately too. Standard procedures may require recording customer accidents and addressing hazardous conditions. Notifying them quickly puts the business on notice to fix the problem before someone else gets hurt in the same area. Don’t rely on their report alone though.
Submit a Detailed Incident Report
To start a Kansas City personal injury claim with the supermarket, submit a thorough incident report. Get the proper forms from the store manager. Document exactly when and where the fall occurred, how you were injured, any unsafe conditions that led to the accident, and potential eyewitnesses. Also, provide related medical records and bills so the business can verify your injuries. Keep copies of the completed report and all claim documentation for your records.
The store’s insurance provider will investigate your report to determine how they wish to proceed. But don’t accept any offer without your attorney’s guidance. They can accurately assess if a settlement adequately covers your financial damages, short and long term.
Prioritize Your Healing and Recovery
The days and weeks after an accident are often stressful. Between medical care, insurance claims and potential legal action, focus first on your own healing. Follow all doctors’ treatment plans closely including therapy, medication and activity restrictions. Listen to your body and don’t overexert yourself before you’re ready.
Let loved ones help with tasks like transportation, childcare, household chores and errands during recovery. Pushing yourself too hard can reinjure you or slow the healing process. Don’t rush back to your normal activities until you’re fully ready.
With the proper steps, you can get your health and life back on track after a supermarket slip and fall. Report it thoroughly, secure experienced legal counsel, file your claim, and make self-care a priority. Being patient and diligent will help you regain strength and obtain fair compensation for your losses.
Slipping and falling due to negligence in a supermarket can be frightening and frustrating. But you have legal rights if their carelessness caused your accident. Follow these guidelines, get knowledgeable legal assistance, and focus on healing. With time and perseverance, you can become whole again. The most important thing after a supermarket fall is ensuring your interests are fully protected.
Get the Legal Support You Deserve
Slipping and falling due to negligence in a Missouri supermarket can leave you facing significant medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. But with Monge & Associates’ help, you can get the compensation you deserve.
As a leading personal injury firm with offices in 32 locations across 19 states, including Missouri, Colorado, and Florida, Monge & Associates has the experience to handle supermarket slip and fall cases in Kansas City and across the state of Missouri. Our Missouri offices in Kansas City and St. Louis allow us to serve clients locally with compassion and expertise.
Don’t wait to get the help you need after a Missouri supermarket fall. Contact Monge & Associates now for a free consultation at (888) 477-0597. Our dedicated legal team will review your case details and advise you on the best path forward to recover damages.