Costco is one of the largest retail stores in the country and is praised for its variety and convenience. Not so convenient, however, are the potential slip and fall accidents that can occur in a store the size of Costco. Spilled liquids, dropped produce, falling shelves, wet floors, and potholes in the parking lot are just a few of the ways a slip and fall accident could happen, leading to a potentially serious injury.
If you have been involved in a slip and fall accident at Costco, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Call the Gertler Law Firm today to get a free consultation.
What To Do Immediately After The Accident
After a slip and fall, the first thing you should do is seek help from an employee and report your accident. If there is a severe injury, call 911 and get medical attention. Even if there is no apparent injury, it is essential to get checked up in case long-term problems present themselves.
It would be best if you also spoke to any witnesses that saw your accident. Take photos and videos of the scene, and jot down any relevant information you can. Report the accident to the store and get a copy of whatever documentation an employee made for your fall.
When reporting your accident, try not to give any recorded statements to Costco employees or their claim managers. They can use these statements against you during your settlement. You have to prove negligence to get compensation, and your information can be used to impede your case.
Settlement Coverage For Slip And Fall Accidents At Costco
Once you establish that Costco was negligent, you can go about collecting damages for your accident. Compensation can be for medical bills, lost income, reduced earning potential, lower quality of life, and any pain and suffering caused by the accident, to name a few examples. No expense is too small, and things like physical therapy and prescription medication can count as well.
To get the maximum financial compensation for any of the above examples, it is crucial to keep records that can prove what you went through because of the accident. Make sure you have any communication between your doctor and employer saved, especially regarding medical expenses and lost income. Having a detailed account of your costs since the accident makes it easier for you to be compensated.
Getting The Settlement Started And Hiring A Lawyer
The settlement process is usually not very straightforward. Costco, like many other retail stores facing a settlement, could try to delay your claim. They may stop communicating with you or offer you a quick but low settlement to end your case quickly.
If you are in the middle of dealing with the pain and stress of an injury caused by your slip and fall, it may be difficult to simultaneously manage Costco’s claim managers, your employer, and your doctor.
Hiring an experienced slip and fall attorney goes a long way to help with those issues. Gertler Law Firm has your back at every step of the way, from dealing with Costco’s insurance company to getting medical records from your doctor. Call us now to get in touch with one of our seasoned New Orleans slip and fall attorneys.
