A slip-and-fall accident might seem on the surface like no big deal, but it can actually result in significant injuries—even if you appear okay at first. Depending on the circumstances and how you take the fall, you could suffer from broken limbs, internal hemorrhaging, serious wounds, spine or neck injury, or even life-threatening head injuries—resulting in high medical bills and lost wages.

If your fall took place because the property owner was negligent, you are eligible to receive compensation for your injuries—but proving negligence can be a challenge. What you do in the moments following a slip-and-fall accident can make all the difference in strengthening your case. The following steps should provide some guidance.

Get Medical Attention

Even if you feel well enough to get home, injuries from a fall may surface after the fact. If need be, request medical attention at the scene—but at the very least, see your doctor or go to an emergency room to get checked out as soon as possible after the accident. Medical documentation of your injuries is a key to getting compensation. (Be sure to get copies of your medical bills, as well.)

Many slip-and-fall injuries—such as concussions, internal bleeding, and soft-tissue damage—often don’t show symptoms immediately. According to the CDC, over 800,000 people are hospitalized every year due to fall-related injuries, making quick medical evaluation critical. Getting timely care not only protects your health but also establishes a clear medical timeline, which strengthens your injury claim.

Take Lots of Photos

Smartphones are a modern marvel because anyone who has one can take photos instantly. Evidence of negligence may disappear within moments of your accident, so snap as many photos as you can to document what happened. Take photos of slick/wet floors, ice and snow and other surroundings that might have contributed to your fall. Also take photos of your physical injuries. Make a note of the exact location where your fall took place.

Be sure to photograph the scene from multiple angles, including close-up shots of the hazard and wide shots showing lighting conditions, warning signs (or lack thereof), and property layout. If possible, record the weather conditions or time-stamped videos, which can be strong evidence in premises liability cases.

Get Witness Accounts

If anyone saw your fall, be sure to get a witness statement from them as evidence. (If you can shoot video on your phone, all the better.) If the police were called, get a copy of the police report, as well.

Ask witnesses to note whether they observed the hazardous condition before your fall. Witnesses who can confirm that a spill, obstruction, or unsafe condition existed for a long time make your claim significantly stronger because it helps establish the property owner’s negligence or failure to act.

Preserve the Clothing and Shoes You Were Wearing

Your clothing and shoes can become crucial pieces of evidence. Do not wash, repair, or alter them after the fall. They may show traces of liquids, substances, or damage caused by unsafe flooring conditions.

Maintain a Pain Journal

Slip-and-fall injuries often take days or weeks to fully appear. Keeping a daily pain log helps document symptoms, mobility issues, emotional distress, and how the injury affects your daily life — which supports your claim for damages.

Document All Expenses and Losses

Beyond medical bills, keep receipts and records of:

  • Transportation to medical appointments

  • Medications

  • Medical equipment (crutches, braces, etc.)

  • Lost wages or reduced hours

  • Childcare or household help

This documentation strengthens your claim for full compensation.

Follow All Medical Treatment Plans

Insurance companies often reduce settlements if victims fail to follow medical recommendations. Attending all follow-ups, therapy sessions, and treatments shows you took the injury seriously and helps establish the severity of your condition.

Avoid Posting About the Accident on Social Media

Insurance adjusters monitor social media. A simple photo or comment can be used against you. Avoid posting anything about your injuries, activities, or the accident until your claim is resolved.

Request Maintenance Records From the Property Owner

If your attorney recommends it, obtaining cleaning logs, inspection lists, and maintenance records can help prove how long the hazard existed and whether the property owner failed to address it in time.

Understand the Insurance Coverage Involved

Most slip-and-fall claims involve premises liability insurance. Knowing which policy applies (commercial property, homeowner’s insurance, landlord insurance) helps streamline the claims process. Your attorney can guide you through this.

Hire an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

Slip-and-fall accidents are difficult cases to pursue on your own, especially when it comes time to talk to the owner’s insurance company. You need a skilled personal injury attorney in Phoenix in your corner who knows what evidence to gather, what questions to ask, what to say and not to say, when it’s time to negotiate, and when it’s time to litigate.

An attorney can also help prove key elements of negligence, including:

  • Duty of care: The property owner’s responsibility to maintain safe premises.

  • Breach of duty: Failure to fix hazards, inadequate lighting, lack of warning signs, etc.

  • Causation: Showing the unsafe condition directly caused your injury.

  • Damages: Medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term treatment needs.
    Understanding and proving these elements is essential for maximizing your compensation.

Additional Steps That Strengthen Your Slip-and-Fall Claim

Preserve Evidence of the Scene: If the property has surveillance cameras, request that footage be preserved immediately. Many businesses automatically delete videos within 24–72 hours.

Report the Incident: Notify the property owner or manager and request a written incident report. Ask for a copy before leaving the premises.

Avoid Providing Statements to Insurance Adjusters Too Soon: Insurance companies often try to get quick recorded statements to reduce liability. Speak with your attorney before giving any details.

The attorneys at Luis Guerra have helped hundreds of slip-and-fall accident victims receive the compensation they deserve. Give us a call at 602-737-2567 today for a free, no-risk consultation.

Key Takeaways

  • Slip-and-fall injuries can be more serious than they appear and often require immediate medical evaluation.
  • Documenting the scene, injuries, witnesses, and expenses greatly strengthens your case.
  • Preserving evidence — including photos, clothing, video footage, and maintenance records — is crucial when proving negligence.
  • Avoid talking to insurance companies or posting on social media before consulting an attorney.
  • An experienced personal injury attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate aggressively, and pursue full compensation through settlement or litigation.
  • Following your treatment plan and keeping detailed records of your pain, medical costs, and lifestyle impact increases your chances of a successful claim.

For readers who want more information on fall-related injuries and negligence law, here are helpful sources: