Yesterday, 3 blocks from my job, I fell in front of a restaurant. They put their trash on the sidewalk, but never mopped it I guess because, although I never really saw the sledge until I fell into it, obviously the ground was extremely slippery.
So, I fell and hurt my knee. I did call an ambulance to take a look but the paramedic said it wasn't broken or hurt bad enough to go to the hospital and I agreed. So today my knee is fine. It hurts and has a black and blue mark, but otherwise it's ok. This is not my problem.
I want the restaurant to pay for the complete damage of my brand new $80 BR pants, my $60 sneakers, my $100 purse, and for the ambulance fee of $400. That's $640 total. Without taking them to small claioms court, what do you think is the best way to handle this?
I was thinking of writing an incident report requesting the money and having it notorized, but I do not know if that is legally binding. I really don't want to take these people to court.
I'd write a demand letter first. Make a copy of it and mail it certified mail. If they don't respond to that then I'd say small claims court, as much as you don't want to do it. HTHs!
What I would do is find the owner of the restaurant and send him a certified letter (don't have to notorize it) explaining the details of the incident, what property of yours was damaged, and the expenses you incurred because of the incident. Say that you would like for him to contact you immediately for reimbursal of your damages within 30 days or you will seek legal action. Make sure you take a picture of your knee, just in case you DO have to go to court (which you probably will)
I have a feeling they are not going to shell out damages unless you take them to court. I would def. consult with a lawyer and have them help you send a letter, warning if they don't pay.. you will be taking them to court.
I agree with everyone else. Like Blubirde suggested, the first step would be for you to write a demand letter. I would include photos of your property damage (i.e. pants, purse, etc.) as well as your injuries with the letter. Also try to include details about the incident such as the exact location, date and time. HTHS!