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Slip and Fall and Premises Liability Lawyer
Wet floors, broken stairs and railings, uneven walkways and dark parking lots. Property owners must keep their property reasonably safe.
In California, property owners and managers must use ordinary care to keep their property reasonably safe (Civil Code § 1714(a)). If they knew or should have known about a hazard and failed to fix it or warn about it, they can be responsible for the injuries that follow. The general deadline to sue is two years (Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1). If the hazard was on public property, a written claim is generally due within six months (Government Code § 911.2).
Common premises cases
- Slips on wet or slick floors
- Trips on uneven sidewalks, debris and torn carpet
- Broken stairs, railings and balconies in apartment buildings
- Poor lighting and negligent security
What you may recover
- Medical care and future treatment
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
Last reviewed: November 2026 · Ironcrest Law Firm LLP. This page is general information about California law, not legal advice for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have a case if I slipped in a store?
Possibly, if the store knew or should have known about the hazard and did not fix it or warn customers. Evidence like photos and video matters.
I fell on a broken stair at my apartment. Who is liable?
Often the landlord or property manager, who must maintain common areas. This can also be part of a habitability case.
Living with unsafe conditions, or hurt because someone was careless?
Tell us what happened. Consultations are free, and you pay nothing unless we recover for you.