Property owners and businesses must keep their premises reasonably safe. When a spill, broken step or poor lighting causes a fall, the injury can be serious, especially for older adults. These claims turn on proof, and proof is easiest to gather early.
Common causes
- Wet floors without warning signs
- Broken or uneven stairs, sidewalks and parking lots
- Poor lighting and blocked walkways
- Loose rugs, cords and clutter
- Inadequate maintenance at apartments and rentals
What you may be able to recover
Every case is different, and no outcome is guaranteed. Compensation in an injury claim can include:
- Medical bills, past and future
- Lost wages and reduced ability to earn
- Pain, suffering and loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage, where a vehicle or belongings were harmed
California law to know
- Owners have a duty of reasonable care (Civil Code section 1714). A claim usually requires showing the owner knew or should have known about the hazard.
- Surveillance video and maintenance records can be overwritten quickly, so report the fall and ask the owner to preserve them.
- The general two-year deadline applies. Falls on public property can carry a six-month claim window.
What to do now
- Report the fall to the manager or owner and ask for an incident report.
- Photograph the hazard, your shoes and the surrounding area.
- Get witness names and see a doctor right away.
- Do not give a recorded statement to an insurer before talking with a lawyer.
- Call us for a free consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What do I have to prove?
Generally that a dangerous condition existed, that the owner knew or should have known, and that it caused your injury. Evidence like photos, video and witnesses matters.
Serving the Central Valley
The office is in North Fresno, and the firm helps injured people throughout the Valley.
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This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different. Attorney advertising.