A slip and fall can happen in an instant — a wet floor, a broken step, poor lighting. What you do in the minutes and days afterward can determine whether you can hold the property owner accountable.
Tell the store manager, landlord, or property owner right away and ask that an incident report be created. Get a copy if you can. An official record makes it far harder for them to deny the fall happened.
Use your phone to photograph what caused your fall — the spill, the broken tile, the missing handrail — along with the lighting and your footwear. This evidence is the heart of a premises liability claim.
That spill will be mopped up and the hazard fixed within hours. If you're physically able, photograph the scene before you leave — it may be your only chance.
Collect the names and numbers of anyone who saw the fall, and see a doctor promptly — even if you feel okay. Some injuries surface days later, and prompt care ties them to the accident.
Don't apologize or downplay your injuries at the scene, and be cautious with the property's insurance company. You're not required to give a recorded statement before speaking with your own attorney.
Premises cases turn on proving the owner knew (or should have known) about the hazard. A quick, free consultation helps you understand whether you have a claim and what it may be worth.
Marshall personally reviews every case and returns calls the same day. No fee unless we recover for you.
This article is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different; for advice about your situation, contact a licensed attorney.