Los Angeles Slip and Fall Lawyer
To win a California slip and fall case you generally must show the property owner knew, or should have known, about the hazard and failed to fix or warn about it in a reasonable time. Property owners owe a duty of ordinary care under Civil Code section 1714, and the usual filing deadline is two years.
What makes or breaks a fall case: notice
A wet floor by itself is not enough. The question is how long it was there and whether the store had a reasonable inspection routine.
That is why sweep logs, inspection sheets, and surveillance video matter more than almost anything else. They also disappear fastest, which is why reporting the fall in writing the same day is so important.
What to do right after a fall
Report it to a manager and ask for a written incident report. Photograph the hazard before it is cleaned up, along with your shoes and the lighting. Get names of any employees or shoppers who saw it. Then get medical care and follow through with it.
Working with a slip and fall lawyer in Los Angeles
Our office is at 10850 Wilshire Blvd # 375 in Westwood, just off the 405 and a short drive from West LA, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Century City, and Beverly Hills. Sam Schmuel handles cases throughout Los Angeles County.
We work on a contingency fee, which means you pay nothing up front and nothing at all unless we recover money for you. We speak English and Spanish, and we can come to you if you are still in the hospital or recovering at home.
If you're not sure where to start, just call us at (310) 601-7289. The consultation is free, and there's no fee unless we win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim?
Generally two years from the fall. If the property is owned by a public entity, a government claim is usually due within six months.
What if I did not report the fall that day?
You can still bring a claim, but expect the defense to argue the delay. Medical records and photographs help fill the gap.
What if I was partly careless?
Comparative fault reduces recovery by your percentage of responsibility; it does not eliminate the claim.
Do I need to prove the owner knew about the hazard?
You must show actual or constructive notice, meaning they knew or reasonably should have known. Inspection records are the usual proof.