One of the most common claims in a laundromat is a slip and fall.  While you may do whatever you can to minimize the risk of a slip and fall, accidents do happen and you need to take the correct steps after there is an incident.

3 Steps for Liability Incident Reporting

The following procedures are recommended for documentation of an incident/claim.  Owners, Managers, or Attendants should use the following guidelines when an accident occurs.  It also works as a great training tool for new employees.

1. Take a Statement

A statement should be taken from the accident victim and other witnesses, as soon after the accident as possible. When interviewing the victim and witnesses, stick to the facts:

  • WHO was injured?
  • When did it happen?
  • Why did they think it happen?
  • How did it happen?
  • What were the unsafe conditions involved?

(i.e. slippery floor surfaces; cluttered floor; footwear; poor illumination; or packages carrier; actions by the victim or others before the accident; physical health; walking aids and eyeglasses).

2. Physical evidence

Take photos of the accident scene, equipment involved, or the other conditions that may have helped cause the accident. It is also a good idea to take note of weather conditions (raining, snowing, etc.), as these could be helpful when determining liability.

3. Offer assistance

You should record actions taken to assist the victim with the injury. Include first aid provided, whether a doctor’s visit or hospital was recommended, and transportation provided.  Identify emergency service that provided treatment or transport.

8 things to know about liability claims

The following are lists of what your should and shouldn’t do when a slip-and-fall or other injury incident occurs:

 DO!

  1. Do call the insurance company when injuries are apparent or there is any doubt that an accident should be reported.
  2. Do demonstrate concern for the victim’s welfare. Follow up with the victim to verify facts; follow progress of treatment for injuries
  3. Do document everything that happens and take notes. Important facts are quickly forgotten and confused.  Keep documentation in a safe place. Sometimes claims remain quite until the statute of limitations has almost run out.  The hope is that you will have thrown away the information about the incident.
  4. Do keep all repair bills and receipts, maintenance records, etc. Which would be valuable in the defense of fraudulent claim against you.

DON’T!

  1. Do not mention insurance. If the questions arises as to payment of bills, advise the victim that a report will be submitted and some will call to discuss further.
  2. Do not make an admission of fault or mention prior accidents from the same alleged cause.
  3. Do not hold accident reports awaiting information. They can be supplemented later.  (You should call your insurance agent, and send them all information you obtain).
  4. Do not argue with the victim. Stick to the facts and take the statement of the victim as it is given.

Contact an Insurance Expert

If you have any questions about your liability coverage, give CLA Insurance a call today at (800) 346-8424 or click the link below.

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