A Simple 5-Step Guide
It happens in an instant. One moment you’re walking, and the next, you’re on the ground. A slip and fall can be shocking, painful, and even a little embarrassing.
Because it all happens so fast, it’s easy to feel disoriented and unsure of what to do. Your first instinct might be to jump right up and pretend it didn’t happen.
Having a clear, simple plan in mind can help you stay calm and take the right steps to protect your health and your well-being. This article provides a basic checklist of what to do in the immediate moments after a fall.
1. Pause and Assess Yourself
Don’t rush to get up.
This is the most important first step. Before you move, take a deep breath and do a quick mental check.
- Are you in severe pain?
- Do you feel dizzy or lightheaded?
- Can you feel and move your arms and legs?
If you try to stand up too quickly, you could make a potential injury, like a sprain or a fracture, much worse. If you feel any sharp pain, tingling, or numbness, it is best to stay still and call for help.
2. Seek Medical Attention if Needed
Your health is the number one priority. If you are in serious pain or hit your head, ask someone to call 911.
Even if you feel “fine” right after the fall, it’s often a good idea to see a doctor. Adrenaline is a powerful pain-masker. Some serious injuries, like concussions or internal bruising, may not show symptoms for hours or even days. Getting a medical check-up creates a record of your injuries and ensures you get the care you need.
3. Report the Incident Immediately
Before you leave the property, report your fall to the person in charge. This could be a store manager, a landlord, or a property owner.
This is important for two key reasons:
- It creates a record. The manager will likely create an “incident report.” This officially documents the date, time, and location of your fall.
- It helps others. By reporting the hazard (like a wet floor or a broken tile), you are helping the property owner fix the problem so no one else gets hurt.
Politely ask for a copy of the incident report for your own records.
4. Quickly Document What Happened
Your smartphone is your most helpful tool here. If you are able, take a few quick photos. Memories can fade, but photos are permanent.
Try to capture:
- The Hazard: Get a close-up of exactly what caused you to fall (the puddle of water, the broken stair, the crack in the pavement).
- The Area: Take a wider shot of the entire scene. This can show important details like a lack of “wet floor” signs, poor lighting, or a cluttered walkway.
- Your Injuries: Take photos of any visible scrapes, bruises, or torn clothing.
5. Be Mindful of Your Words
In the confusion after a fall, it’s a natural human instinct to say things like, “I’m sorry!” or “I’m fine, don’t worry!”
Try to stick to the simple facts. You can say, “I slipped on that patch of ice,” or “I tripped on this torn carpet.” You don’t truly know if you’re “fine” until a medical professional has checked you. Sticking to the facts is always the best policy.
When to Seek Help
The steps above are about protecting your health and well-being in the moments just after an incident. However, the days that follow can be just as confusing. You may be facing medical bills, missing time from work, and feeling unsure about what to do next. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
At the Law Offices of Jose M. Francisco, our experienced Miami slip and fall lawyers understand the stress and uncertainty that come after an injury. We are here to listen to your story and help you understand your options. If you or a loved one has been injured in a fall, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. We can review the details of your incident and provide clear, straightforward answers to your questions, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Additional Information:
How to Get Paid After a Slip and Fall Accident (And Why It’s Often More Than You Think)
Why You Need a Slip and Fall Lawyer After a Supermarket Fall