I fell and got hurt at my friend's house. What should I do now?

If you were injured in a slip and fall at a store, you probably wouldn’t have any problem aggressively seeking compensation for your medical costs. Unfortunately, a fall becomes more complicated when the accident takes place on the private property of someone you personally know. You may not want to jeopardize your friendship or cause a financial burden—even as you deal with extreme medical bills and loss of wages during your recovery. 

How to Handle a Slip and Fall Injury at a Loved One’s Home

Here's the good news—you should absolutely contact an attorney, because damages you recover are likely to come from homeowner’s insurance, rather than straight out of your loved one’s pocket. 

There’s a catch, though. The insurance company has a duty to defend the homeowner and a vested interest in denying claims to spend less money. That’s why you need a legal professional on your side. Here’s what you specifically need to do after an injury at a friend’s home:

• Document the conditions. Photos of poorly lit stairs, damaged flooring, icy sidewalks, etc. are very helpful in building your case.
• Seek medical attention as soon as you can. You need evidence to clearly establish the extent of your injuries, such as broken bones, traumatic brain injury, ongoing pain and stiffness, and so on.
• Do not discuss the accident at all with your friend. This is about more than preserving the friendship—it is far too easy for your words to be used against you to reduce or deny your claim. Their insurance carrier is banking on you feeling bad about the situation and incorrectly admitting fault to smooth things over.
• Talk to an attorney to determine if you have a case and decide on the best route forward. Your personal injury attorney may need to begin an investigation into the accident and then handle negotiations with insurance or potentially file a lawsuit if your costs exceed the policy payout maximums.

Ready to Discuss the Next Steps in Your Recovery?

Were you hurt in a fall at the home of a friend or family member? Let us help you navigate this difficult and sensitive situation. Call or message us today so we can find out more about your injury.