Malcolm L. MacGregor | February 6, 2026 | Personal Injury Blog

What to Do After an Injury in Scranton’s Public Square

Scranton’s Public Square is a hub of activity. Between community events, local businesses, public transportation, and daily foot traffic, it’s one of the busiest areas in the city. Unfortunately, busy places also increase the risk of accidents. Slips and falls, vehicle collisions, falling debris, or other unexpected hazards can leave you injured and unsure of what to do next.

If you’ve been hurt in or around Scranton’s Public Square, the steps you take immediately after the injury can make a significant difference in protecting your health and your legal rights.

1. Get Medical Attention Right Away

Your health always comes first. If you’re seriously injured, call 911 or ask someone nearby for help. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to seek medical care as soon as possible. Some injuries—such as concussions, internal injuries, or soft tissue damage—may not show symptoms right away.

Medical records also play a crucial role if you later pursue a personal injury claim. Delaying treatment can give insurance companies an excuse to argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident.

2. Report the Incident

If your injury occurred on public property, such as a sidewalk, plaza, or crosswalk in Public Square, report it to the appropriate authority as soon as possible. This may include local law enforcement, city officials, or property management if the injury happened in or near a business.

For example:

  • A car accident should be reported to the police.
  • A slip-and-fall incident in a store or restaurant should be reported to management.
  • An injury caused by a dangerous sidewalk or public fixture may need to be reported to the City of Scranton.

An official report helps document when, where, and how the injury happened.

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, gather as much evidence as possible before leaving the scene. Conditions in busy areas like Public Square can change quickly, and important details may disappear.

Try to:

  • Take photos or videos of the hazard that caused your injury
  • Capture wide shots and close-ups
  • Photograph visible injuries
  • Get the names and contact information of any witnesses

These details can be invaluable if fault is later disputed.

4. Be Careful What You Say

In the moments after an accident, it’s natural to feel shaken or apologetic. However, avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault, even casually. Comments like “I wasn’t paying attention” or “I’m probably fine” can be used against you later.

Stick to the facts when speaking with police, property owners, or insurance representatives. You are not required to give a recorded statement to an insurance company without legal guidance.

5. Preserve Evidence and Records

After the incident, keep all documents related to your injury in one place. 

This includes:

  • Medical bills and records
  • Prescriptions and treatment plans
  • Incident reports
  • Photos and videos
  • Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses
  • Documentation of missed work or lost income

These records help establish the full impact of your injury, not just physically, but financially and emotionally as well.

6. Understand That Public Property Claims Can Be Complicated

Injuries that occur in Scranton’s Public Square may involve claims against a government entity. These cases often have shorter deadlines, strict notice requirements, and unique legal rules compared to typical personal injury claims.

Failing to follow these procedures correctly can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation. That’s why it’s especially important to get legal guidance early when public property may be involved.

7. Talk to a Scranton Personal Injury Lawyer

Before accepting any settlement offer or navigating the claims process on your own, consider speaking with an experienced Scranton personal injury lawyer. An attorney can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and handle communication with insurance companies or government entities on your behalf.

A lawyer can also help determine who may be responsible for your injuries—whether it’s a negligent driver, a business owner, or a public agency—and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Contact McDonald & MacGregor, LLC for a Free Consultation 

An injury in Scranton’s Public Square can disrupt your life in an instant. While the situation may feel overwhelming, taking the right steps after an accident can protect both your health and your future.

By seeking prompt medical care, documenting what happened, and getting legal guidance when needed, you put yourself in the best position to move forward and recover with confidence. If you’ve been injured, contact McDonald & MacGregor, LLC for a free consultation. Our Scranton personal injury lawyers can tell you more about your legal options. 

We proudly serve Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, Luzerne County, Lackawanna County, and surrounding areas.

McDonald & MacGregor, LLC
220 Penn Ave Suite 320, Scranton, PA 18503
(570) 209-7062