Slip and Fall Accidents: Proving Premises Liability in California

Slip and fall accidents can cause serious injuries, from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. In California, property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. When they fail to do so, they can be held liable for injuries that result. At Justice For All, we investigate these cases thoroughly to hold negligent property owners accountable.

Elements of a Premises Liability Claim

To prove a slip and fall case in California, you must establish: (1) the property owner owed you a duty of care, (2) there was a dangerous condition on the property, (3) the owner knew or should have known about the condition, (4) the owner failed to fix or warn about the condition, and (5) this failure caused your injuries.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

Wet or slippery floors without warning signs, uneven surfaces or broken sidewalks, poor lighting, loose carpeting or mats, cluttered walkways, and weather-related hazards like ice or snow are common causes of slip and fall accidents.

"Evidence in slip and fall cases can disappear quickly. We act fast to document the scene, obtain surveillance footage, and preserve critical evidence."

The Importance of Documentation

If you are injured in a slip and fall, document everything. Take photos of the hazard, your injuries, and the surrounding area. Get contact information from witnesses. Report the incident to the property owner or manager and request a copy of the incident report.

Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries manifest fully only days or weeks after the accident. Medical records also serve as crucial evidence.

Comparative Negligence

Property owners often argue that the injured person was partially at fault—for example, by not paying attention or wearing inappropriate footwear. California's comparative negligence rule means your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover damages.