How To Document Your Slip and Fall Accident
A slip and fall accident can happen anywhere, and the consequences are often more severe than people realize. These incidents are the second leading cause of unintentional deaths globally, just behind automobile accidents. In the United States, millions of people visit emergency rooms each year due to falls, with older adults being particularly vulnerable. About 37% of these cases require additional medical care or lead to activity restrictions.
In Las Vegas, where high foot traffic in casinos, hotels, and other public spaces is common, slip and fall accidents can be particularly prevalent. If you’ve been injured, knowing your rights and understanding the steps to take is essential. Property owners, businesses, employers, event organizers, and even government entities have a legal duty to maintain safe premises. When hazards like wet floors, uneven pavement, or poor lighting are not addressed, they may be held liable, but you need proof to back up your claim.
Here's what evidence can strengthen your claim and how an experienced Las Vegas slip and fall lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
What documentation do I need for my slip and fall claim?
To support your slip and fall claim, thorough documentation is a must-have. Here’s what you should gather:
Incident report
If you reported the slip and fall to a property owner or manager, obtain a copy of the official report they created.
Photographs and videos
Include images or videos of the hazardous condition (e.g., wet floors, uneven surfaces) that caused your fall, as well as any visible injuries.
Medical records
Keep records of all medical evaluations, treatments, and bills. These demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the related expenses.
Witness statements
Collect the names and contact information of anyone who saw you fall. Their statements can add credibility to your case.
Personal notes
Write down details of the slip and fall accident, including the time, date, location, and conditions (lighting, weather, warning signs, etc.). Note how the fall occurred and any conversations you had with property owners or witnesses.
Clothing and shoes
Preserve the clothes and footwear worn during the incident. These items may show damage or residue relevant to your claim.
Proof of lost income
If your slip and fall caused you to miss work, gather pay stubs, tax returns, or employer statements to show your lost wages and potential future lost income.
What are the most common injuries from a slip and falls?
Slip and fall accidents can lead to several injuries that range from minor to severe, such as:
- Fractures that commonly affect the wrists, arms, ankles, and hips.
- Sprains and strains involving overstretched or torn ligaments and muscles, particularly in the ankles, knees, and wrists.
- Head injuries, such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries resulting from impacts to the head.
- Back and spinal cord injuries, including herniated discs and, in severe cases, paralysis.
- Cuts and abrasions, often occurring on the hands, knees, and face.
- Bruises resulting from blood vessels breaking under the skin after impact.
- Shoulder injuries, such as dislocations or torn rotator cuffs from trying to break a fall.
- Hip fractures that typically affect older adults, often requiring surgery.
- Knee injuries, including ligament tears or meniscus damage.
- Dental injuries, such as broken or chipped teeth from facial impacts.
When should I consult with a Las Vegas slip and fall lawyer?
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident in Las Vegas, don't hesitate to seek legal help from a skilled attorney. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to get fresh evidence. Plus, the insurance companies can argue against your claim and try to reduce or deny your compensation. Lasso Injury Law can investigate your slip and fall and build a strong case that insurance companies can't ignore.
Attorney Al Lasso has been successfully advocating for injured clients since 2003. One of his standout achievements includes securing a historic $16.4 million verdict for a client who suffered severe head injuries in a slip and fall accident—the largest verdict of its kind in U.S. history. Al’s dedication also led to a $1.25 million settlement for a client hurt in a fall at a major Las Vegas hotel.
Contact us online or call our Las Vegas law office today to schedule your free consultation and learn about your legal options. It costs you nothing for us to review your case, and we operate on a contingency fee basis, so you don't pay anything unless we win. Let us start building your case and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
“I suffered injuries stemming from a car crash in 2017. I hadn't been through anything like it before and didn't know where to turn for help. My injuries were serious. I ended up reaching out to Mr. Lasso for help, not knowing what to expect. I quickly realized I made a wise decision. Al was a total pro from day 1 and guided me through the entire process - a process which lasted nearly five years. I immediately trusted him, and you will, too.“ – M.M., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐