Slipped and fell at a store: what to do
Check if you’re hurt, tell the manager and ask for an incident report, and take photos of what made you fall right away. Get witness names, keep your shoes and clothes, and see a doctor. Don’t sign anything or give a recorded statement to their insurance until you understand your rights.
Your checklist
- Check if you’re hurt
- Tell the manager and get an incident report
- Take photos right away
- Get witness names and numbers
- Keep your shoes and clothes
- See a doctor and keep every bill
- Don’t sign anything from their insurance yet
Rather read it? Here’s the whole thing.
Right after the fall
- Don’t rush to get up. If your head, neck or back hurts, or you can’t stand, ask someone to call 911.
- Tell the manager or owner. Ask for an incident report and a copy, or take a photo of it.
- Take photos of what made you fall: a spill, a crack, a loose mat, poor lighting, and whether there was a warning sign.
- Ask witnesses for their names and phone numbers.
In the days after
Keep the shoes and clothes you wore, without washing them. See a doctor, even if you feel okay, and keep every bill and note.
Be careful with insurance calls
The property owner’s insurance may call quickly. Be polite, but don’t sign anything or give a recorded statement until you understand your rights.
Do you need a lawyer?
Property owners must keep places reasonably safe. If they didn’t and you were hurt, a free call with an injury lawyer can help. There are deadlines, which vary by state.
Common questions
Can I still have a case if I was partly at fault?
In many states, yes, but your share of fault can reduce what you receive. The rules vary by state.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Each state has a deadline, often a few years for injuries, but some cases, like claims against a city, can be much shorter.
Talk to an injury lawyer near you
Free calls. Most only get paid if you win.
No one is listed here yet. Check back soon.
Know someone who needs this?
Not yet reviewed by an expert. Last checked 2026-10-29. This is general help, not legal, medical or professional advice. Rules are different in every state.