Should I Call an Ambulance After a Slip-and-Fall in Tampa?

After a slip and fall in Tampa, you might feel unsure about your next steps. Perhaps you’re lying on the ground as you read this article, pondering whether to call 911. As a general rule, you should call an ambulance even if you remotely suspect that you may have been injured. It is always a smart idea to prioritize your health, and doing so may have additional legal benefits. After seeking treatment, you might want to discuss your next steps alongside a lawyer.

The Health Benefits of Calling an Ambulance After a Slip and Fall 

If you have fallen and you believe you might have suffered an injury, it is best to remain still. If you try to get up, you might make your injuries worse. Consider lying or sitting in a comfortable position, and do not let anyone try to help you to your feet. Although nearby bystanders and staff members may have good intentions, they could worsen your injuries by forcing you to get up before you’re ready.

Many injuries are difficult to detect at first, These include neck and spine injuries, which may be much worse than they initially seem. Try to stabilize your neck as best you can, and avoid moving too much until you receive treatment from a medical professional.

Another example of a subtle fall injury is brain trauma. You may be concussed, and you might struggle with amnesia. Slow down and take your injuries seriously. After brain trauma, you might find it difficult to remember what happened. It is not uncommon for someone to suddenly find themselves walking down the street after a fall – with no memory of how they got there.

The Legal Benefits of Calling an Ambulance After a Fall 

By calling an ambulance, you also make it clear that your injuries are serious. This could help if you eventually plan to file a premises liability lawsuit against the property owner. If you simply get up and walk away, insurers and defendants may argue that your injuries cannot have been that serious.

That being said, it may still be possible to file a lawsuit if you failed to call an ambulance. The most important thing is to seek treatment immediately after your fall. You might also get a friend or family member to drive you to the nearest hospital instead of waiting for an ambulance. As long as your medical records reflect that you sought treatment as soon as possible after your fall, you should be able to file an effective premises liability lawsuit.

Can a Slip-and-Fall Lawyer in Tampa Help Me? 

After you have received treatment, consider calling a slip-and-fall lawyer in Tampa next. These legal professionals can guide you toward fair compensation for your fall. By holding the property owner liable for your injuries, you may find it easier to cover medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. To learn more about your next steps, contact the experienced slip-and-fall lawyers at Anderson & Anderson today.

Sources:

emergencyphysicians.org/article/er101/when—and-when-not—to-call-an-ambulance

uwsp.edu/emergency/Documents/When-to-Call-911.pdf