Slips and Falls – Accident Investigation

It is important to document the facts about slip and fall accidents as soon as possible. Documenting who, what, when, where, and why can be critical in determining the cause of the slip and fall, as well as actions that are needed to prevent it from occurring again. It also provides details about the accident that would be important in the event legal action is brought against the organization.

The following components should be incorporated into slip and fall accident investigation procedures:

• Designate a person to investigate accidents. This person should know the procedures.
• Create an accident report form. It is critical to obtain all of the facts related to the accident. Document and detail as many facts as you can about the accident. Form examples:
  • Slips and Fall Prevention: Accident Report Form
• If the individual is injured, make sure he or she receives prompt medical attention.
• After the person has left the scene, photographs should be taken of the area where the slip and fall occurred. This will document if there was anything that may have contributed to the slip and fall, such as ice or debris.
• Do not admit any liability, and do not make any offer of payment.

There are times when no matter what kind of precautions are taken, a slip and fall accident still happens. That is why they’re called accidents. If one does happen, it’s always good to know what to do in the situation.

© 2024 GuideOne Insurance. GuideOne® is the registered trademark of the GuideOne Insurance Company. All rights reserved. This material is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to give specific legal or risk management advice, nor are any suggested checklists or action plans intended to include or address all possible risk management exposures or solutions. You are encouraged to retain your own expert consultants and legal advisors in order to develop a risk management plan specific to your own activities.