A slip and fall claim is a premises liability lawsuit against a property owner whose negligence caused a dangerous condition that led to your injury.
Property owners, tenants, businesses, or municipalities can be liable if they knew (or should have known) about a dangerous condition and failed to fix it.
Evidence includes photos of the hazard, incident reports, witness statements, maintenance records, and surveillance footage.
Under comparative negligence (most states), your recovery is reduced by your fault percentage. In a few states (contributory negligence), any fault may bar recovery entirely.
A wet floor sign can reduce the property owner's liability by showing they took reasonable precautions. However, inadequate signage or placement can still support liability.
Statutes of limitations typically run 2–3 years. Government property claims may require a notice of claim within 60–180 days.
Medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, future medical costs, and in some cases punitive damages for egregious negligence.
Minor cases may settle for $15,000–$50,000. Serious injuries involving surgery or permanent impairment can reach $100,000–$500,000+.
Photograph the hazard immediately, get witness contact information, report to the property manager, seek medical attention, and preserve the shoes you were wearing.
For significant injuries, yes. Attorneys typically work on contingency and can increase your settlement substantially through negotiation and litigation.