Blaming Yourself For A Slip And Fall In Miami? Identifying The True Cause Of Your Injuries
Suffering a slip-and-fall accident in public can be embarrassing. It is common for victims to attempt to downplay the situation and the extent of harm they suffered while blaming themselves for it happening. The fact is that negligence on the part of the property owner is likely to blame. Uncovering the true cause of your injuries can help in getting the compensation you need to recover.
Avoid Self-Blame When A Slip And Fall Accident In Miami Happens
Slips and falls are among the most common causes of personal injuries in Miami. They often happen in stores, shopping malls, restaurants, nightclubs, amusement parks, office buildings, and other public places. Unfortunately, victims may feel compelled to engage in self-blame to avoid feeling foolish and deflect unwanted attention, while downplaying the overall severity of the situation. Common examples include:
- Claiming to be clumsy or not as cautious as you should otherwise be;
- Claiming you are easily distracted and were not paying attention;
- Insisting the accident is less serious than it is;
- Wanting to avoid any ‘fuss’, such as filing an accident report with the property owner or seeking medical attention.
Psychology Today warns that while taking accountability for our actions is important, a tendency to self-blame when things go wrong could be destructive. In the case of a slip and fall accident, it can prevent you from seeing how the property owner may be liable for costs you incur as a result.
Determining The Real Cause Of Slip and Fall Injuries
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that slips and falls are one of the most common types of accidents and injuries suffered can impact victims for years after. While you may be tempted to blame yourself, the fact is that negligence on the part of the property owner or their employees is likely to blame. To determine the real cause of your injuries, take these steps:
- Report slip and fall accidents immediately to onsite security, the police, or the property owner;
- Make sure an accident report is filed and describes details surrounding the incident;
- Do not make any statements regarding how it happened or the severity of your injuries;
- Take photos or videos at the scene;
- Seek medical care right away and follow your doctor’s instructions.
Property owners can be held liable for wet floors, uneven sidewalks, cluttered hallways, and other hazards that increase fall risks. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation in a Miami slip and fall accident claim.
Consult With Our Miami Slip And Fall Lawyer
Injuries suffered in a slip and fall accident can impact you for years into the future. Rather than blaming yourself, reach out to Pita Weber Del Prado. We protect your rights to compensation by proving how the property owner may be liable. To consult with our experienced Miami personal injury lawyer, call 305-670-2889 or contact us online today.