Slip and Fall

Support After a Slip and Fall

A slip and fall can happen in an instant, but the impact on your life may last much longer. In California, these accidents can lead to serious injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and time away from work or family. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a slip and fall, you may feel anxious about what comes next. At Attain Law, we understand what you’re going through and are here to guide you every step of the way. If you’re coping with injuries, exploring your legal options, or wondering about other types of personal injury claims, we’re ready to listen.

What Is a Slip and Fall?

A slip and fall occurs when someone loses their footing due to a hazardous condition—like a wet floor, uneven pavement, or hidden obstacle—and suffers an injury. These cases are a type of premises liability, which means property owners can be held responsible if they fail to keep their property safe. Common places for slip and fall accidents in California include grocery stores, apartment complexes, shopping centers, and sidewalks.

For more about where and why these accidents happen, see Top Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents.

California Laws That Matter

California law requires property owners, landlords, and businesses to keep their premises reasonably safe. Under California Civil Code § 1714, anyone who owns, leases, or controls property must use ordinary care to prevent injuries to others. If they knew—or should have known—about a dangerous condition and failed to fix it or warn people, they may be liable for your injuries.

California also follows a rule called “comparative negligence.” Even if you were partly at fault for your fall, you may still be able to recover damages, though your compensation could be reduced. Learn more about this in Proving Liability in Slip and Fall Cases.

Responsibilities of Property Owners

Property owners in California have several core responsibilities:

• Regularly inspect the property for hazards
• Repair dangerous conditions promptly
• Clearly warn visitors about any risks they can’t fix right away

For example, a grocery store should put out a sign for a wet floor and clean up spills quickly. If you’re injured in a rental property, your landlord’s duties may differ from those of a store owner. You can also explore claims for other types of unsafe conditions, like dog bites or premises liability.

Taking Action After a Fall

If you’ve been hurt in a slip and fall in California, here’s what you should do:

• Get medical attention as soon as possible, even if injuries seem minor
• Report the incident to the property owner or manager and ask for a copy of the report
• Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and anything that caused your fall
• Gather names and contact information of any witnesses
• Keep records of all related expenses and lost income
• Avoid giving detailed statements to insurers before speaking with a lawyer

For tips on how to preserve evidence, see How to Document a Slip and Fall Injury for a Claim.

Know Your Damages

After a slip and fall, you may be entitled to recover damages for:

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Out-of-pocket costs for things like crutches, medication, or transportation
• Emotional distress

In severe cases, injuries can include broken bones, head trauma, or lasting disabilities. To better understand potential compensation, visit Common Premises Liability Injuries and Compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions About California Slip and Fall Claims

How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in California? In California, you generally have two years from the date of your injury to file a slip and fall lawsuit. If the claim is against a government entity, you may need to file a notice within six months.

What if I was partly at fault for my fall? California’s comparative negligence law allows you to recover damages even if you were partly at fault, though your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

What evidence should I collect after a slip and fall? Collect photos of the scene, your injuries, contact information for witnesses, and copies of any incident reports. Keep all medical records and receipts related to your injury.

Can I sue a landlord for a slip and fall in a rental property? Yes, if a landlord failed to maintain safe conditions or ignored repairs, they may be liable for injuries on the property. Talk to an attorney about your specific situation.

What types of damages are available for slip and fall victims? You may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other costs related to your injury.

Reach Out for Help

If you were hurt in a slip and fall in California, you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. The attorneys at Attain Law can help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us at (888) 970-8627 or contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to support you.