It happens in an instant. You’re walking through a grocery store, a restaurant, or maybe even your apartment complex — and then suddenly, your feet go out from under you. The shock. The pain. The embarrassment. But what happens next is even more important.
Many people brush off a slip and fall, thinking it’s their fault. But in many cases, it’s not. Property owners have a legal responsibility to maintain safe environments. And when they fail to do so, you have the right to hold them accountable.
How Slip and Fall Accidents Happen
Slip and fall accidents aren’t always clumsy accidents — they’re often caused by negligence. Common causes include:
- Wet or freshly mopped floors without warning signs
- Uneven sidewalks or cracked pavement
- Loose floorboards or carpeting
- Dim lighting in stairwells and hallways
- Spilled liquids in stores left uncleaned
- Icy walkways in commercial properties
- Cluttered walkways or unsafe construction zones
These aren’t harmless hazards — they’re legal liability risks.
Injuries That May Seem Minor at First — But Aren’t
Some slip and fall injuries are immediately obvious, while others develop over time. You may think you’re just sore, but even minor symptoms can signal something more serious:
- Sprains and ligament tears
- Broken wrists, hips, or ankles
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Internal bleeding or swelling
- Chronic pain from untreated soft tissue damage
If you’ve fallen and feel anything out of the ordinary, seek medical attention immediately — not only for your health, but to protect your legal rights.
What You Should Do After a Slip and Fall
If you’re hurt on someone else’s property, take these steps to strengthen your case:
- Report the incident to the property owner or manager immediately.
- Take photos of the scene, including the hazard that caused the fall.
- Get contact information for any witnesses.
- Seek medical treatment — even if you feel “okay” at first.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal advice.
- Contact a personal injury attorney to understand your options.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
In California, property owners and managers are required to keep their premises reasonably safe. If they knew (or should have known) about a dangerous condition and didn’t fix it or warn you, they can be held liable.
This includes:
- Retail stores
- Grocery chains
- Apartment complexes
- Hotels
- Restaurants
- Office buildings
- Public or government spaces (with stricter notice deadlines)
What Compensation Can You Seek?
If your fall was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Future treatment or therapy
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or reduced quality of life
Every case is different, which is why speaking with a slip and fall attorney is essential.
Why Veliz Legal?
Veliz Legal has helped clients across Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley recover compensation after serious falls. We know how to investigate unsafe property conditions, deal with difficult insurers, and present a strong case in your favor. We treat every client with respect and give your case the attention it deserves — from day one.
Talk to a Slip and Fall Attorney Today
You don’t have to go through this alone. If you were injured in a slip and fall accident, let Veliz Legal stand by your side and fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.
Call us now or request a free consultation online.
