Casinos are awesome recreational sites for first-timers and regular patrons alike as they provide an exciting venue for big-time winnings in slot machines, video roulette, blackjack and keno, bingo, and other table games. They also provide additional amenities such as restaurants, shops, spas, bars, and nightclubs. You can play in commercial or tribal casinos across the U.S. and have an unforgettable weekend. 

Sadly, not all casino experiences end up with customers reeling in big bucks. Apart from losing, you may trip on uneven floors, fall from slippery stairs, or suffer from a terrible stomach ache from hotel room service. Worse, you may even find yourself a victim of robbery or assault while you’re in the parking lot.

Don’t blame Lady Luck for leaving you amid your casino experience. Chances are, your injuries are the result of the owner or their staff’s negligence. Knowing what to do can make the casino liable for your injuries. It’ll help build your case and stack the odds in your favor—be it an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.

Steps To Take After Casino Injury

Your casino mishap could be more than bad luck, and you’ll need proof that it was caused by the casino or their staff’s negligence. You should gather evidence that they knew of the hazard before the accident and did not do anything about it. You can hold them liable by: 

• Reporting The Incident to the Manager

You should report the incident to the casino manager immediately. Doing so brings the matter to their attention and result in an incident report. Make sure to get your copy and ask for the contact information of the casino’s insurance company as well. You’ll need these when you file for an insurance claim and in case you plan to sue them in the future.

•  Seeking Medical Help Immediately

The casino should call for medical assistance and arrange for your transport to the nearest hospital, especially if you suffer from severe injuries such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or burn injuries. 

Even if your injuries seem minor, like a bruise, twisted ankle, or swollen wrist, you’ll need to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some internal injuries take more than 24 hours to manifest, and it’s best to seek medical advice and treatment to prevent further complications. 

Don’t forget to obtain a copy of your medical records and follow treatment plans provided by your physician to ensure your full recovery. Keep hospital and out-of-pocket expenses receipts for emergency, medical and mental health services you need for your recovery.  

• Taking Pictures and Videos of Your Injuries and the Scene 

Snap photos of your injuries to show their extent. Taking pictures of the area where the accident happened can highlight factors such as torn carpeting, damaged handrails, dimly lit hallways, or parking areas that led to your injury. You can also take pictures of defective equipment such as broken slot machines, irons, and coffee makers or broken chairs and tables. 

You can also choose to record conversations with casino staff. A simple apology counts as an implied admission and can support your claim against their negligence.   

• Having The Right Casino Accident Attorney

Armed with these pieces of evidence, you can stage an insurance claim for minor injuries. However, casinos are big wigs backed by a battalion of lawyers and supported by equally aggressive insurance companies who would do everything to reduce your claim. Tribal casinos are even harder to contend with, as they are often immune to personal injury claims.

You’d need legal experts on your side, especially if it occurred in Native American casinos. A group of expert Indian casino injury attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of Indian casino laws and successfully negotiate or pursue an injury claim on your behalf.

• Gathering Witnesses 

You or your designated lawyer can talk to people who witnessed your accident. They can ask witnesses to make a factual recollection of the incident and have them sign the document so you can use it as evidence to strengthen your claim. 

• Computing For Damages 

Apart from your hospitalization, casino injuries can also result in lost wages. To lodge an insurance claim, you’ll need a statement of your lost wages from your employer. They will include your salary, vacation, and sick days pay and add bonuses lost due to your injuries. 

You can then add these to your medical and out-of-pocket expenses to obtain the injury cost. Multiply it twice for pain and suffering, and you can determine the worth of your injury claim. If you have a permanent disability, you should also include this to sustain your future needs. 

• Sending Letter for Insurance Claim 

You or your lawyer can send a request letter to inform the casino’s insurance of your claim. This letter should include all the photos you took of your injuries and the accident scene, along with signed statements from witnesses. 

• Pursue Claim Through Negotiation 

You or your lawyer can negotiate with the casino’s insurer regarding your claim. While most of these end up in a settlement, some may end up in courtroom hearings. Armed with your pieces of evidence and your team of lawyers, you can contend with them and ensure fair compensation. 

Conclusion 

The steps you take after a casino injury accident are crucial to your insurance or personal injury lawsuit. Since you’re up against big casino companies, you’ll need to create a strong case with various pieces of evidence and the competence of casino injury attorneys to win.