Slip and fall accidents are among the most common causes of personal injury in New Jersey. They can happen anywhere—at a grocery store, workplace, apartment complex, or even on a public sidewalk. While some falls result in only minor bruises, others lead to broken bones, head injuries, or long-term medical complications. Knowing what steps to take immediately after a slip and fall accident is crucial for protecting your health and your legal rights.
Seek Medical Attention First
Your top priority should always be your health. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen over time. A prompt medical evaluation not only ensures your well-being but also creates a medical record that links your injuries directly to the accident—an important piece of evidence in any legal claim.
Report the Accident
After ensuring your safety, report the accident to the property owner, manager, or supervisor. Whether the fall happened at a retail store, apartment building, or workplace, documenting the incident is essential. Ask that an accident report be completed and request a copy for your records. If the accident occurred in a public place, such as a sidewalk, report it to the appropriate municipal authority.
Document the Scene
Evidence at the accident site can disappear quickly, especially if property owners rush to fix the hazard. Take photographs or videos of the conditions that caused your fall, such as spilled liquids, uneven flooring, broken railings, or icy sidewalks. Capture the scene from multiple angles, and include nearby warning signs—or the lack of them. If possible, take note of the exact time and weather conditions, as these details may later support your case.
Collect Witness Information
If anyone saw your fall, ask for their names and contact details. Witnesses can provide valuable testimony about how the accident occurred and confirm that the dangerous condition existed. Independent accounts from bystanders often strengthen premises liability claims, especially if property owners dispute your version of events.
Preserve Physical Evidence
Keep the clothing and shoes you were wearing at the time of the accident. They may provide evidence, such as skid marks or wet surfaces, that illustrate how the fall happened. Avoid washing or altering them until your attorney has reviewed the items.
Avoid Giving Statements to Insurance Companies
After a slip and fall accident, insurance representatives for the property owner may contact you. Be cautious—insurers often look for ways to minimize payouts, sometimes by suggesting you were careless or partially at fault. Avoid giving recorded statements or signing documents without first consulting an attorney. Anything you say can be used to weaken your claim.
Understand New Jersey’s Comparative Negligence Rule
In New Jersey, compensation in a slip and fall case is subject to the modified comparative negligence rule. This means your recovery may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident. For example, if you ignored warning signs or were distracted by your phone, your damages could be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover damages at all. Having strong evidence is key to limiting claims of shared fault.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
Premises liability cases in New Jersey can be complex. Property owners often deny responsibility, and insurance companies may push back against your claim. An experienced slip and fall attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for full compensation on your behalf.
Conclusion
What you do immediately after a slip and fall accident in New Jersey can make a significant difference in your health and your ability to recover compensation. By seeking medical care, reporting the accident, documenting evidence, and consulting with an attorney, you can protect your rights and build a strong legal case.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident, do not wait—speak with a knowledgeable New Jersey premises liability attorney to discuss your options and secure the compensation you deserve.