Building Your Slip and Fall Case: Essential Evidence Guide
Slip and fall cases require proving that the property owner knew (or should have known) about a dangerous condition. Raffi Naljian helps premises liability victims understand what evidence makes the difference between a successful claim and one that fails. Without proper documentation, it's your word against the property owner's. This guide explains exactly what you need to build a strong case.
Hurt in a slip and fall?
Raffi Naljian
Lead Personal Injury Attorney
With 15+ years of experience, Raffi Naljian has recovered millions for accident victims across California. Known for aggressive negotiation and compassionate client care.
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Premises liability cases are evidence-intensive. Property owners and their insurers often claim they didn't know about the hazard, or that you should have seen it. Raffi Naljian handles slip and fall cases and understands how to investigate property maintenance records, prior incidents, and constructive notice. Also searched as: Rafi Nanaljian, Raffi Nalian, Rafi Naljian.
What to Do Next
- 1Photograph the exact hazard that caused your fall immediately
- 2Take wide-angle shots showing the area and any warning signs (or lack thereof)
- 3Report the incident to management and request a written report
- 4Ask about surveillance cameras
- 5Get witness names and contact information
- 6Keep your shoes and clothing from the incident
- 7Seek medical attention and keep all records
📋Evidence Checklist
- Photos of the hazard (wet floor, torn carpet, uneven surface, debris)
- Photos showing lack of warning signs or barriers
- Incident report from the property
- Surveillance footage (request immediately)
- Witness contact information and statements
- Your shoes from the incident (stored unworn)
- Maintenance logs showing when area was last inspected
- Prior complaint records about the same hazard
- Weather records if outdoor fall
- Medical records linking injuries to the fall
- Photos of injuries immediately after and during healing
Need help proving the property owner's negligence?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving without photographing the exact hazard
- Not asking for surveillance footage before it's deleted
- Throwing away the shoes you were wearing
- Failing to file an incident report with property management
- Not getting independent witness information
- Waiting too long to document injuries
- Accepting blame or apologizing
- Missing the shortened deadline for government property claims
How the Process Typically Works
Scene Documentation
Capture photos and evidence before leaving
Incident Reporting
File report with property; get copy
Evidence Preservation
Request video, save shoes, document injuries
Investigation
Attorney investigates maintenance history
Medical Treatment
Complete care and document all treatment
Demand & Resolution
Present case to property owner's insurance
Damages You May Be Able to Recover
- •Emergency room and medical treatment
- •Surgery if needed
- •Physical therapy
- •Lost wages
- •Pain and suffering
- •Permanent injury or disability
- •Future medical care
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I didn't take photos at the scene?
Your case is harder but not impossible. Return to photograph the location if possible, get the incident report, request surveillance footage, and focus on witness statements and medical documentation.
Why do I need to keep my shoes?
Shoes can show the surface you walked on and disprove claims that your footwear caused the fall. They're also relevant if the defense claims the floor wasn't actually slippery.
How do I prove the owner knew about the hazard?
Evidence of actual notice (prior complaints, incident reports) or constructive notice (hazard existed long enough that reasonable inspection would have found it). Maintenance logs and prior incidents help.
What if there was a "wet floor" sign?
Warning signs don't automatically excuse the property owner. The sign must be visible and placed appropriately. You may still have a claim if the warning was inadequate or the hazard was unreasonably dangerous.
How long does the store keep surveillance footage?
Retention periods vary—sometimes just days or weeks. Request footage immediately in writing. Your attorney can send a formal preservation demand to prevent destruction.
What about falls on government property?
Claims against government entities (city sidewalks, public buildings) have special procedures and much shorter deadlines—often just 6 months to file an administrative claim. Act quickly.
Proper evidence makes or breaks your case.
Related Resources
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Important Disclosures
Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this website or submitting a contact form. Results vary based on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.