SKIP TO CONTENTIf you slipped and fell on another person’s property, you might be surprised to learn that the property owner could be liable for your injuries. Submitting an insurance claim with their insurance provider is the first step in seeking compensation for your injuries. But our Oklahoma slip-and-fall attorneys understand that the insurance process is often unfamiliar and overwhelming for accident victims.
These insights can help you begin to navigate the insurance process. Remember that your trip-and-fall injury attorney will take many of these tasks off your shoulders as well.
Filing a Slip-and-Fall Insurance Claim
Homeowners and business owners often carry liability insurance to cover injuries that occur on their properties. You may be able to file a claim with the property owner’s insurance if all of the following are true:
- The property owner owed you a duty of care (i.e., you were lawfully on their premises).
- The property owner breached their duty of care (such as by leaving a hazard on the property).
- An accident occurred due to the breach.
- You suffered injuries in the accident.
These four elements of a negligence claim suggest that the property owner was liable for your accident.
Reach out to their insurance company to file a claim. You’ll need to provide information about the accident and your injuries, and the insurer may request specific documentation from you.
Tips for Interacting With Insurance Companies in a Slip-and-Fall Case
Dealing with insurance companies isn’t always easy. Insurers are interested in making money, not paying out claims. They want to protect their policyholders and only pay compensation to those who definitively meet the terms of the policy.
As a result, the way you interact with an insurance company can significantly impact your case. These tips from our Oklahoma slip-and-fall attorneys can help you avoid compromising your claim and promote better outcomes:
- Stay calm when communicating with the adjuster.
- Avoid giving too much information, especially about your injuries or the accident details. Answer the insurer’s questions without providing unnecessary details.
- Be careful how you talk about the accident. You don’t want to inadvertently admit fault by saying “I tend to be clumsy” or admitting that you saw the hazard before tripping over it.
- Refer the adjuster to your premises liability lawyer in Oklahoma. Your attorney can speak with the adjuster on your behalf and prevent you from saying the wrong thing. If you need to speak with the adjuster directly, having your negligent property conditions attorney with you is a good idea.
- Don’t agree to a recorded statement if you can help it. The adjuster will only use your statement against you to undermine your claim.
All in all, be wary when talking to insurance adjusters and understand that they are not on your side. Let a seasoned lawyer deal with the insurance company on your behalf.
What If the Insurer Denies Your Claim?
If the insurance company denies your claim, rely on your Oklahoma slip-and-fall attorneys to appeal their denial. They will review the reason for the denial and provide additional evidence to support your case.
If they believe the insurer acted in bad faith, meaning they unlawfully denied your claim, your fall accident legal counsel in OK can help you pursue legal action against the insurance company. They will do everything they can to pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Let Our Oklahoma Slip-and-Fall Attorneys Assist Your Case
Whether you’re facing a simple slip-and-fall insurance claim or a complex icy sidewalk lawsuit in Oklahoma, our attorneys at Bryan Garrett PLLC are here to represent you. Contact us today at 405-369-4498 for a consultation with our Oklahoma slip-and-fall attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What should I do after a slip and fall accident in Oklahoma?
A: Seek medical attention, document the accident, and contact Oklahoma slip and fall attorneys to discuss your legal options.
Q: Can Oklahoma slip and fall attorneys help if my insurance claim is denied?
A: Yes, attorneys can appeal the denial, gather evidence, and pursue legal action against the insurer if necessary.
Q: Why should I be cautious when speaking to insurance adjusters after a slip and fall?
A: Insurance adjusters may try to minimize payouts or find reasons to deny your claim, so it’s best to consult with an attorney first.
