If you get hurt in a slip and fall, you may seem fine immediately after. Then in the days following the accident, you might end up experiencing pain, going to a doctor, and finding out that there is something wrong. You may worry that your late report of your injury can work against you if you make an insurance claim or sue for damages, but you shouldn’t. This kind of thing happens all the time, and a Washington, D.C. unsafe building accident lawyer from our firm is ready to help you fight for compensation even if you didn’t notice your injuries right away.
Should a Slip and Fall Injury Be Obvious Right Away?
Not necessarily. There are many reasons why a slip and fall injury might not be obvious right away. This is why it’s so important to get to a doctor as soon as you can. They may be able to diagnose an injury that you didn’t notice. You should also be on the lookout for signs of trouble, like pain, stiffness, or tingling in any of your body parts. Any of these symptoms could indicate a slip and fall injury that you didn’t notice right away.
Can a Defendant Use it Against Me If I Don’t Report My Injury Right Away?
When you wait a while to report a slip and fall injury, the insurance company may try to use it against you. They may try to claim that you were injured at another time and that you were actually fine after your slip and fall accident.
This can be worrying, but remember that insurance companies are going to find any excuse they can to avoid paying a large settlement. If you see a doctor right away and hire an experienced attorney, you can still build a compelling case and use evidence like your medical records to show why you deserve compensation.
How Long Do I Have to Report a Slip and Fall Injury?
There is still a limit on how long you can wait to report a slip and fall injury. You must take legal action before the statute of limitations expires. That gives you three years to act in Washington, D.C. or Maryland and two years to act in Virginia.
What Kinds Of Damages Can I Win?
Your compensation should make up for the economic costs of your slip and fall injury, but it also needs to address the pain you went through and the kinds of issues you went through on your road to recovery. A fair offer should help compensate you for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Loss of enjoyment
- Pain from disability or disfigurement
Talk to an Experienced Slip and Fall Lawyer?
So even if it’s been a few days since your accident or even longer, do not just assume that you cannot claim compensation. Contact Trombly & Singer, PLLC to schedule a consultation and learn more about your legal options and the potential value of your case.