Had a Slip or Fall in Public? Make Sure You Collect Evidence for a Claim

Posted on: 17 August 2017

If you're out somewhere and you hurt yourself slipping or tripping over something, your immediate thoughts are probably how badly you're injured and where you need to go for first aid treatment. If somebody else is at fault, there's a chance you can claim compensation, but you need to make sure you have the right evidence.

More and more people are going to court over accidents these days, but that doesn't mean making a claim is easy or in any way a sure thing. It's important to do a thorough job of gathering proof so your lawyer has plenty to go on when putting together your case. These are the main things you should collect.

Photographs

This is the most important thing to get quickly, as you'll need to show whatever hazard caused you to fall. If this was a spillage or mobile obstacle, chances are it won't be around for long after your accident.

Get as much detail as you can, including both close-ups and shots from a wider angle. The latter can be useful to show, for example, that no warning signs were present. If your camera has a date stamp setting, switch it on first, as it will lend weight to your case.

Of course, if you're not able to take photos because of your injuries, make sure you ask someone else to do it for you without delay.

Written accounts

As soon as you're able to, write down your account of exactly what happened, with as much detail as you can. This will help if your memories become a bit fuzzier later on.

It's also helpful to ask any witnesses if they're willing to do the same, and if there was a person who provided first aid treatment, their account is also useful.

Medical records

If you have to seek professional medical treatment, your records can show the extent of your injuries and add a lot of power to your case. They can also help a lawyer work out how much compensation you might be entitled to—for example, by using the time taken off work and other periods of necessary rest.

Other useful evidence

There are all kinds of things that can help your case, and the evidence you need varies from one situation to the next. For some people, writing in a journal or keeping semi-regular accounts of how the accident has affected you afterwards really helps.

Physical evidence like bloody or damaged clothing, no matter how unpleasant it sounds, can also be useful. Seal it in plastic bags to keep it safe.

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