What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in Charleston, SC

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere—from a grocery store in North Charleston to a historic restaurant in downtown Charleston. If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident in Charleston, SC, knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference in protecting your health and legal rights. In this guide, we break down exactly what you need to do after a slip and fall accident, how South Carolina law applies to these cases, and why having an experienced legal team on your side is essential.

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Your health should always be your top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal damage, may not show symptoms right away. Seeking medical attention immediately not only ensures your well-being but also provides medical records that can be essential if you decide to pursue a legal claim.

South Carolina Slip and Fall Injury Statistics:

• According to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in the state.
• The National Floor Safety Institute reports that slip and fall accidents account for over 1 million emergency room visits annually in the U.S.
• A study by the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission found that fall-related injuries lead to thousands of lost workdays each year, costing workers and businesses millions in lost productivity.

Step 2: Document the Scene

If you’re able to, gather evidence immediately after your fall.

What to Document:

✔ Take Photos & Videos:

Capture images of the hazard that caused your fall (wet floors, uneven pavement, poor lighting, etc.).

✔ Get Witness Information:

If anyone saw your fall, ask for their contact details in case their testimony is needed later.

✔ Write Down What Happened:

Record the date, time, location, and a detailed description of how the accident occurred.

✔ Save Any Clothing or Shoes:

The footwear and clothing you were wearing can serve as evidence in case the defendant argues your shoes were inappropriate for the environment.

Step 3: Report the Incident

Always report your slip and fall accident to the property owner, store manager, or landlord. Request a written report and keep a copy for your records. If the fall happened on commercial property, businesses often have internal procedures for handling such incidents. If law enforcement is involved, request a copy of the official report.

Step 4: Consult a Slip and Fall Attorney in Charleston

Navigating a slip and fall claim can be complex, and South Carolina premises liability laws may impact your ability to recover compensation. Consulting a qualified Charleston slip and fall attorney is critical to protecting your rights.

How CFJ Injury Lawyers Can Help

At CFJ Injury Lawyers, we understand the challenges victims face after a slip and fall accident. Our firm has over 40 years of experience representing injury victims in Charleston and North Charleston, securing fair settlements and verdicts for those who have been wrongfully injured.

Our Approach to Slip and Fall Cases

• Comprehensive Case Evaluation:

We take the time to listen to your story, review the evidence, and determine the best legal strategy.

• Thorough Investigation:

Our legal team gathers security footage, interviews witnesses, and works with medical experts to strengthen your claim.

• Proven Negotiation Skills:

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize settlements. We fight aggressively to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

• Litigation When Necessary:

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are fully prepared to take your case to trial.

Meet Our Attorneys:

• Catherine F. Juhas: A dedicated advocate for personal injury victims, licensed in South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington D.C., and the U.S. District Court of South Carolina. She has been recognized for her legal scholarship and also serves as an Adjunct Professor at the Charleston School of Law.
• Eric Saleme: A passionate personal injury attorney with a strong record of success since 2013. Fluent in Spanish, Eric is committed to serving the Latin-American community and ensuring all clients have access to legal representation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How much is my slip and fall case worth in South Carolina?

A: Each case is unique. Factors such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the property owner’s negligence determine the value of your claim. Our attorneys can provide a free case evaluation to assess your specific situation.

Q: What if I was partially at fault for my fall?

A: South Carolina follows comparative negligence laws (S.C. Code § 15-38-15). If you are found to be less than 51% at fault, you may still recover compensation, but your settlement will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Q: Do I need a lawyer for a slip and fall case?

A: While not required, having a lawyer significantly increases your chances of winning fair compensation. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims. An experienced Charleston slip and fall attorney can handle negotiations, gather evidence, and fight for your best interests.

Q: How long do slip and fall cases take to resolve?

The timeline varies. Some cases settle within months, while others take a year or more if litigation is required. Our attorneys work to resolve cases as efficiently as possible while maximizing compensation.

Q: Will I have to go to court?

A: Most slip and fall cases are settled out of court. However, if the insurance company refuses a fair settlement, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to trial.

Contact CFJ Injury Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one has suffered a slip and fall accident in Charleston, SC, don’t wait to take action. Our experienced Charleston personal injury attorneys are ready to fight for your rights.

At CFJ Injury Lawyers, we treat every client like family, ensuring you get the justice and compensation you deserve.