Slip and Fall Injuries in Public Places: Who Is Responsible?

Government Liability

Special rules apply when accidents happen on government property.

Private Business Liability

Stores, malls, and restaurants must maintain safe environments for customers.

Proving Responsibility

Gathering evidence is critical when dealing with corporate or municipal defendants.

Settling a Slip and Fall Case vs. Going to Trial

Benefits of Settling

• Faster resolution
• Lower legal expenses
• Guaranteed compensation

Risks of Going to Trial

• Longer timelines
• Uncertain outcomes
• Potentially higher awards

Defenses Property Owners Use Against Slip and Fall Claims

Comparative Negligence

Arguing that the injured party was partially responsible for the fall.

Lack of Knowledge

Claiming they were unaware of the hazard in time to fix it.

Open and Obvious Defense

Asserting that the danger was so obvious it should have been avoided.

Proving Liability in Slip and Fall Cases

Property Owner’s Duty of Care

Owners are responsible for keeping premises reasonably safe.

Knowledge of Hazard

You must show that the owner knew or should have known about the danger.

Failure to Address the Hazard

If the owner failed to fix or warn about the danger, they can be held liable.

What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health comes first. Even if injuries seem minor, they can worsen over time.

Report the Accident

Notify the property owner, manager, or supervisor. Request a written incident report if possible.

Document Everything

Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any hazards that caused the fall.

Contact a Slip and Fall Lawyer

Legal guidance is crucial for protecting your rights and maximizing compensation.