A slip and fall can happen in an instant, but the effects may last much longer. Many people find themselves dealing with painful injuries, time away from work, and growing medical bills. In New Jersey, property owners have a duty to keep walkways and public areas safe. When they fail to do so, those injured may have the right to pursue a legal claim.
Even with a valid claim, recovering compensation can be difficult without the right approach. Early mistakes, even unintentional ones, can make it harder to hold a property owner accountable or prove the full extent of your injuries.
At The Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr, we have spent decades helping individuals and families throughout New Jersey understand their legal rights and take the right steps forward. If you were injured in a fall on someone else’s property, this guide will walk you through four common mistakes to avoid and why they matter.
1. Not Reporting the Accident to the Property Owner
Failing to report the incident at the scene can make your case more difficult to prove. Whether the fall occurred at a grocery store, apartment complex, office building, or public sidewalk, notifying the property owner or manager promptly creates an official record of what happened.
Ask for a written report if one is available. If the fall occurred on commercial property, document the name and role of the person you notified and request a copy of the report. Without this record, the property owner or their insurance provider may later question whether the fall actually occurred or whether it happened somewhere else.
2. Waiting to Seek Medical Treatment
Some injuries, like sprains, soft tissue damage, or even concussions, may not be immediately apparent. Delays in treatment can lead to medical complications and may weaken your claim by creating gaps in your medical history.
Prompt medical care not only supports your physical recovery but also establishes a clear link between the fall and your injuries. If you skip appointments or wait too long to seek help, insurance companies may argue that your injuries are unrelated or less serious than claimed.
3. Speaking With Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Advice
After a slip and fall injury, you may receive a phone call from the property owner’s insurance company. The adjuster may seem helpful, but their job is to protect the company’s bottom line. They may ask for a recorded statement or encourage you to accept a quick settlement.
What you say to an adjuster can be used against you later. Even casual comments can be misinterpreted. It is wise to speak with a personal injury attorney before discussing your case with the insurance company. An attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that any communication supports your claim rather than weakening it.
4. Sharing Details on Social Media
Posting on social media about your accident, injuries, or day-to-day activities may seem harmless. The reality is, insurance investigators often review these posts looking for anything they can use to challenge your claim.
For example, a photo showing you smiling at a family gathering may be used to argue that your injuries are not affecting your quality of life. Even if you are in pain, an image without context can be misleading. To avoid confusion, it is best to avoid posting about your accident, treatment, or recovery while your case is active.
What to Do Next After a Slip and Fall Injury
When you’ve been hurt on someone else’s property, knowing what steps to take (and what to avoid) can make a real difference in how your case unfolds. Mistakes made early in the process may not seem important at the time but can have a lasting impact on your ability to recover compensation.
Documenting the incident, seeking medical care, and avoiding common missteps gives your claim a stronger foundation. These actions show that you took the injury seriously and help prevent the insurance company from questioning your credibility or minimizing what you’ve been through.
Legal Support That Puts Your Needs First
At The Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr, we understand how disorienting life can feel after a sudden fall. You may be unsure whether you have a case or what steps to take next. For decades, our firm has guided individuals and families through the legal aftermath of serious accidents, offering straightforward answers and practical support.
We take time to understand what happened, explain your legal options clearly, and help you decide what’s right for your situation. If your injuries were caused by unsafe property conditions, we’re here to listen and help you explore your next step.
Speak With a New Jersey Slip and Fall Attorney
If you were injured in a slip and fall accident, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. Speaking with a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and know what to expect as your claim moves forward.
Contact The Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr to schedule a free, confidential consultation. We serve clients across New Jersey, with a strong presence in Highland Park, New Brunswick, Edison, Somerset, Metuchen, Sayreville, and communities throughout Central New Jersey. Let’s talk about what happened and how we may be able to help.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult an attorney licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.
