A slip and fall can happen anywhere, at a grocery store, restaurant, parking lot, or even someone’s home. One moment you are walking normally, and the next, you are dealing with pain, embarrassment, and uncertainty about what to do next.
Slip and fall accidents are among the most common causes of injury in Wisconsin, especially during icy winter months. Broken bones, head injuries, and back injuries often result in long recovery times and unexpected medical bills.
If your fall occurred because a property owner failed to keep their premises reasonably safe, evidence becomes the foundation of your claim. The more information you gather early on, the stronger your case may be. This guide from Lindner Law, LLC explains what evidence to collect, how to preserve it, and why timing matters.
Seek Medical Care Immediately
Your health should always come first. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Medical records help by:
- Documenting your injuries shortly after the fall
- Identifying conditions that may worsen without treatment
- Creating a clear link between the accident and your injuries
Insurance companies often argue that injuries are unrelated or exaggerated if there is a delay in treatment. Prompt medical care helps protect both your health and your claim.
Report the Accident and Preserve the Report
If your fall happened in a public place such as a store, restaurant, or apartment complex, ask to file an incident report immediately. Stick to factual details only, such as the time, location, and general cause, for example ice, water, or uneven flooring.
Before handing the report back to the employee or manager, take clear photos of every page with your phone. In many cases, property owners later refuse to provide a copy of the report. Having photos ensures you preserve exactly what was documented at the time of the incident.
If a copy is offered, request it. If not, write down the name and title of the person who completed the report and the time it was made.
If the fall occurred on private residential property, record the address, the name of the homeowner or tenant, and any statements they make about the condition of the property.
Take Photos and Videos of the Scene
Visual evidence is extremely important in slip and fall cases. Try to take photos or videos as soon as possible, ideally before the hazard is cleaned up or repaired.
Capture images of:
- The exact location where you fell
- The hazardous condition, such as ice, water, debris, or uneven surfaces
- Lighting conditions in the area
- Warning signs or the absence of warning signs
- Your visible injuries, bruising, or damaged clothing
If you are unable to take photos yourself, ask a friend or family member to help. Time stamped images can make a major difference when liability is disputed.
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