Legal Insights

Slip and Fall Injuries in California: What You Need to Know

December 2024 4 min read
Caution wet floor

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere—grocery stores, parking lots, workplaces, or even someone else's home. While these accidents might seem minor at first, they can lead to serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, and long-term pain.

Understanding your rights after a slip and fall can help you protect your health and secure fair compensation.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

Premises liability claims often arise when property owners fail to maintain safe conditions. Some frequent causes include:

Wet or slippery floors without warning signs
Uneven or cracked sidewalks
Loose or torn carpeting
Poor lighting or obstructed walkways
Neglected maintenance of stairs, railings, or ramps

Important: Even seemingly small hazards can result in significant injuries, especially for older adults.

Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident

Taking the right steps immediately after a fall is crucial:

1

Seek medical attention

Some injuries, like head trauma or internal bleeding, may not be immediately obvious.

2

Report the accident

Notify the property owner, manager, or security personnel.

3

Document the scene

Take photos of the hazard, your injuries, and any contributing factors.

4

Gather witness information

Eyewitness accounts can strengthen your claim.

5

Contact an experienced attorney

A premises liability lawyer can guide you through filing a claim and fighting for full compensation.

Understanding Premises Liability in California

Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions for visitors. If they fail to do so and someone is injured, they may be held liable. However, liability isn't always straightforward:

  • The cause of the accident must be tied to the property owner's negligence.
  • Contributory factors, like a person's own actions, may affect the claim.
  • California follows comparative negligence, which can reduce compensation if the victim shares responsibility.

What Compensation Can Cover

Victims of slip and fall accidents may be entitled to recover:

Medical bills (current and future)
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress

A skilled attorney can help ensure you pursue all forms of compensation you're entitled to.

Contact a Slip and Fall Attorney in California

If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident, don't wait. At Beahm Law, we help clients navigate complex premises liability claims and fight for the compensation they deserve.

Free Consultation
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