Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere — in stores, at work, or even on a neighbor’s property. While some falls seem minor at first, they can lead to serious injuries that require medical care and time to recover. Knowing the right steps to take immediately after a fall can protect your health, preserve important evidence, and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Report the Accident Immediately

After a slip and fall accident, reporting the incident right away is crucial. This ensures there’s an official record and can help protect your claim.

What to do:

• Notify the property owner, manager, or staff before leaving.
• Request a copy of the incident/accident report.
• Document the time, place, and details of the hazard.
• Note the names of anyone you reported to and any witnesses.

Document the Scene and Your Injuries

Capturing evidence immediately can make a big difference in proving your case.

Tips for documentation:

• Take photos and videos of the hazard, your fall, and any visible injuries.
• Record the condition of the area (wet floor, uneven tiles, poor lighting).
• Make notes about what led to the fall and how it happened.
• Collect contact information from witnesses and note any surveillance cameras nearby.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if your injuries seem minor, some conditions appear later, such as sprains, internal injuries, or concussions.

Key points:

• Get a full medical evaluation as soon as possible.
• Keep all medical records, prescriptions, and documentation of treatments.
• Early medical documentation shows a clear link between the accident and your injuries.

Contact an Experienced Slip and Fall Attorney in FL

A lawyer can help you navigate Florida’s premises liability laws, preserve evidence, and pursue fair compensation.

Your attorney can help:

• Investigate the incident and gather proof.
• Identify the responsible party (property owner, manager, or business).
• Handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies.
• Advise on deadlines and your legal options.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Property owners often clean up hazards quickly, which can make proving your case harder. Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident, so prompt action is critical.

Acting quickly ensures:

• Evidence is preserved (photos, witness accounts, video footage).
• You meet filing deadlines for your claim.
• Early intervention may prevent insurance companies from minimizing your case.

Common Slip and Fall Hazards

• Recognizing typical hazards helps you document them and strengthens your case.
• Wet or slippery surfaces (spills, recently washed floors, rain).
• Uneven flooring (cracked sidewalks, torn carpet, mismatched tiles).
• Poor lighting or cluttered areas.
• Elevation changes (unmarked steps, ramps, loose or missing handrails).
• Outdoor hazards (leaves, gravel, ice, or puddles).

What Compensation Can You Recover?

In Florida, you may be able to recover:

Economic damages:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Property damage

Non-economic damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Your attorney can help gather compelling evidence to maximize your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after my fall?

Report the incident, document the scene, seek medical care, and contact an attorney.

How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in Florida?

Typically two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline may prevent recovery.

What if I was partially at fault?

A: Florida’s comparative fault rules may reduce your compensation, but you could still recover. An attorney can evaluate your case.

What evidence is most important?

A: Photos/videos of the hazard and your injuries, witness statements, incident reports, surveillance footage, medical records, and proof of lost wages.

How Kemp Law Can Help

Our attorneys handle slip and fall and premises liability cases in Florida. We help clients:

• Investigate the accident and collect evidence.
• Document your injuries and financial losses.
• Negotiate with insurance companies or file a lawsuit if needed.

Call Kemp Law today for a free consultation — we’ll evaluate your case, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.