Slip-and-fall accidents can happen anywhere—in grocery stores, parking lots, or even on sidewalks. These incidents can result in serious injuries, from fractures to head trauma, leaving victims overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Pennsylvania law allows victims of slip-and-fall accidents to seek compensation for their injuries, but taking the right steps immediately after the accident is essential to strengthening your case. Below is a detailed guide on the steps you should take to protect your health and legal rights.

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Your health and safety should be your first priority. Even if your injuries appear minor at first, some issues—such as concussions or internal bleeding—may not manifest immediately. A prompt medical evaluation ensures your well-being and provides a detailed record of your injuries, which is critical in a personal injury claim. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 800,000 people are hospitalized each year due to fall injuries, particularly head injuries or hip fractures.

Tip: Get a copy of your medical records and any diagnostic reports, as they can serve as evidence of the injuries you received in the fall.

2. Report the Accident

Notify the property owner, manager, or another responsible party about the accident. If the incident occurs in a business establishment, request a written incident report and ensure you obtain a copy for your records. Pennsylvania law requires property owners to maintain reasonably safe premises, and reporting the accident ensures that your case is documented.

What to Include in the Report:

• Date and time of the incident
• Location of the accident
• Details of what caused the fall (e.g., wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting)

3. Document the Scene

Gathering evidence at the scene of the accident is a vital step in building your case. Photographic evidence can help establish hazardous conditions that contributed to the slip-and-fall. Use your phone or camera to take pictures of:

• The area where the accident occurred
• The hazard that caused your fall (e.g., spilled liquids, broken tiles)
• Lighting conditions and any warning signs (or lack thereof)

Also, get the names and contact information of any witnesses. Their statements could support your claim by corroborating your account of the accident.

4. Preserve Evidence

Keep the clothing, shoes and any other items you were wearing at the time of the accident. Avoid washing or altering them, as they might provide evidence, such as tears, scuff marks, or stains, that demonstrate the impact of the fall. Pennsylvania courts may consider all physical evidence when determining liability in a premises liability case.

5. Avoid Discussing the Incident

Limit your discussions about the accident, especially on social media platforms. Statements you make online or in conversations can be misconstrued or used against you by the property owner's insurance company. Stick to factual, documented evidence and speak to a lawyer before making any statements to insurance adjusters.

6. Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

Slip-and-fall cases can be complex, particularly when it comes to proving liability. Pennsylvania follows a "comparative negligence" rule, which means your compensation may be lowered if you are found partially at fault for the accident. An attorney will help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and make sure that your rights are looked out for.

Key Questions to Ask Your Attorney:

• What is the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Pennsylvania? (Answer: Generally, two years from the date of the accident)
• How can we establish the property owner's negligence?
• What damages can I claim, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering?

7. Understand Property Owner Liability in Pennsylvania

To pursue a successful slip-and-fall claim, it's your responsibility to prove that the property owner or manager was negligent. This involves demonstrating:

• A dangerous condition existed on the property.
• The property owner knew or should have known about the hazard.
• The property owner failed to fix the hazard or provide adequate warning.

For instance, if a grocery store employee failed to clean up a spill quickly, leading to your fall, the store could be held liable.

8. Keep Track of Expenses and Losses

Maintaining detailed records of all accident-related expenses is critical. This includes:

• Medical and prescription costs
• Transportation expenses for medical appointments
• Documentation of lost income or reduced earning capacity

These records help quantify the financial impact of the accident and make sure you receive fair compensation.

9. File Your Claim on Time

Under Pennsylvania's statute of limitations, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline could result in losing your right to seek compensation. Acting promptly also ensures that evidence remains intact and witnesses' memories stay fresh.

10. Stay Persistent and Patient

Slip-and-fall cases can take time to resolve, particularly if the property owner's insurance company disputes liability. Be prepared for negotiations or even litigation, and stay patient as your attorney works to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Conclusion

Slip-and-fall accidents in Pennsylvania are more than just minor mishaps—they can have serious physical, emotional, and financial consequences. By taking the appropriate steps immediately after your incident, you can protect your health and legal rights.

Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away

Navigating Pennsylvania slip-and-fall claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced slip and fall lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.