Suffering an injury on someone else’s property—whether from a slip and fall accident, a broken handrail, or hazardous stairs—can be both painful and overwhelming. Premises liability cases involve injuries caused by dangerous conditions on the property due to the property owner’s failure to keep it safe. Here’s a step-by-step guide from Dwyer Williams Cherkoss, Oregon’s trusted slip and fall attorneys, on what to do if you find yourself injured in a slip or another accident on someone else’s property.

1. Document the Scene Immediately

One of the most critical actions to take after being injured in a slip and fall accident or any other premises-related injury is to document the scene as soon as possible. Often, property owners will quickly repair hazards like wet floors, broken railings, or uneven pavement to avoid liability. By capturing photographs and videos of the scene, you preserve valuable evidence for your premises liability claim. This documentation helps show exactly how the property owner failed to maintain a safe environment, which can strengthen your case if you pursue a settlement offer.

2. Collect Contact Information

If your injury occurred in a public place like a grocery store or on private property, be sure to gather the contact information of the property owner or responsible party. You’ll also want to obtain insurance information—whether it’s a homeowner’s policy or a business liability policy. Insurance companies are often involved in premises liability claims, and having these details will help your premises liability attorney navigate the process smoothly and build a strong case.

3. Seek Medical Attention Promptly

No matter how minor your injuries may appear, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Injuries like muscle strains, fractures, and concussions may not be immediately obvious due to shock or adrenaline. Visit an urgent care center, hospital, or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation, and make sure all injuries are documented. These medical records will be essential to establishing your slip and fall injury claim and connecting it directly to the accident.

4. Avoid Admitting Fault

After an accident, it’s natural to feel apologetic or uncertain about what caused the incident. However, it’s crucial not to make any statements regarding fault at the scene, especially if you’re unsure about Oregon’s premises liability laws. Premises liability cases hinge on proving that a property owner owed a duty of care to keep their property safe. A premises liability lawyer can help determine who is at fault based on the evidence, protecting your right to fair compensation.

5. Contact a Slip and Fall Lawyer

Slip and fall cases and other premises liability cases are complex, requiring specific legal expertise. It’s best to contact an experienced slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible. A knowledgeable attorney knows which evidence is crucial to proving your claim, can speak to witnesses, and will understand the duties of care the property owner had to maintain a safe environment. Additionally, they will be able to work with insurance companies on your behalf, securing fair settlement offers that reflect the full extent of your damages.

Why Hiring a Premises Liability Attorney Matters

Premises liability cases require proving that the property owner failed to maintain a safe environment and that their negligence directly caused your injury. A seasoned premises liability attorney can assess whether inadequate maintenance, poor lighting, or failure to address dangerous conditions contributed to your accident. They can also bring in expert witnesses and medical professionals to strengthen your claim.

Contact Dwyer Williams Cherkoss for a Free Consultation

At Dwyer Williams Cherkoss, our experienced team of premises liability attorneys is dedicated to helping victims of slip and fall claims and other injuries hold property owners accountable for unsafe conditions. We understand the complexities of premises liability laws and know how to secure fair compensation for our clients, covering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property, contact us today at (541) 617-0555 for a free consultation. We’re here to answer your questions, assess your case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.