Understanding Slip and Fall Cases
Slip and fall accidents are one of the leading causes of injuries in the United States. Every year, millions of people are hurt due to dangerous conditions on commercial and residential properties. If you suffered a fall due to a property owner's negligence, you have the right to seek compensation.
In California, property owners and managers have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. When they fail in this duty and someone gets hurt, they can be held liable under premises liability law.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Wet or Slippery Floors
- • Spills not cleaned up
- • Recently mopped floors without warning signs
- • Rain water in entryways
- • Refrigerator/freezer leaks
Floor Hazards
- • Loose or wrinkled carpets
- • Exposed electrical cords
- • Merchandise in aisles
- • Uneven or broken surfaces
Structural Defects
- • Broken stairs or missing handrails
- • Potholes in parking lots
- • Raised sidewalks
- • Inadequate lighting
Weather Conditions
- • Ice not removed
- • Accumulated wet leaves
- • Puddles not drained
- • Snow not cleared
Injuries from Slip and Fall Accidents
Falls can cause injuries ranging from minor bruises to permanent damage. Elderly individuals are especially vulnerable. Common injuries include:
- Fractures – Especially hip, wrist, ankle, and spine
- Head injuries – Concussions, traumatic brain injury
- Back injuries – Herniated discs, spinal fractures
- Soft tissue injuries – Sprains, muscle tears
- Cuts and lacerations – That may require stitches
Proving Liability in Fall Cases
To win a slip and fall case, we must prove that the property owner was negligent. This requires demonstrating:
- Dangerous Condition
That a hazard existed on the property (wet floor, obstacle, defect)
- Knowledge
That the owner knew or should have known about the hazard
- Failure to Act
That they failed to take reasonable steps to fix or warn about it
- Causation
That the dangerous condition caused your fall and injuries
What to Do After a Fall
- Report the incident – Notify the owner, manager, or employee immediately.
- Document everything – Take photos of the dangerous condition, your injuries, and the area.
- Get witnesses – Write down names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the fall.
- Seek medical attention – Even if you don't think you're seriously injured.
- Preserve evidence – Keep the clothing and shoes you were wearing.
- Don't give statements – Don't sign anything or speak to insurers without a lawyer.
- Contact an attorney – A slip and fall lawyer can protect your rights.
Compensation for Slip and Fall Injuries
- Medical Expenses
Emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications
- Lost Wages
Time missed from work during recovery
- Pain and Suffering
Compensation for physical pain and emotional trauma
- Permanent Disability
If injuries cause lifelong limitations